Design Engineer - Piping

Location: Paducah, KY

About Mesabi Metallics

When you join the team at Mesabi Metallics, you become part of a pioneering group advancing sustainable mining practices and driving innovation in the iron ore industry. Our commitment extends to providing a safe work environment, supporting environmental stewardship and generating value for all stakeholders. You will be joining us at a pivotal moment in Minnesota’s mining history: Mesabi Metallics’ cutting-edge iron ore mining and pelletization project is currently under construction. Once completed, it will mark the first new mine and pellet plant in Minnesota in nearly 50 years.

More importantly, you'll be immersed in a positive, supportive work environment that values your contributions and fosters your professional growth. Our culture is shaped by our core values which are sustainability, integrity, inclusivity, innovation, teamwork, determination and performance, and our employees are empowered to make a difference every day.

At Mesabi Metallics, you are part of a legacy of excellence, playing a key role in shaping the future of global infrastructure and industry.

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Design Engineer - Piping to support the engineering, design, and execution of projects related to iron ore beneficiation plants, pellet plants, direct reduction iron (DRI) facilities, and integrated steel manufacturing operations. The role is responsible for developing and reviewing piping designs, layouts, material specifications, and engineering deliverables while ensuring compliance with applicable industry codes, safety requirements, and project objectives.

The successful candidate will work closely with process, mechanical, civil, electrical, instrumentation, construction, and operations teams to deliver safe, reliable, and cost-effective piping systems from conceptual engineering through commissioning.

Job Responsibilities

• Develop and review piping layouts, piping general arrangement (GA) drawings, isometrics, piping support drawings, and 3D models for industrial process facilities.
• Prepare and review piping design deliverables including plot plans, equipment layouts, piping routing studies, and material specifications.
• Coordinate with process engineering teams to ensure piping systems meet process requirements and operational objectives.
• Review and interpret Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), and equipment data sheets.
• Perform piping design calculations, pressure drop evaluations, line sizing reviews, and support selection.
• Coordinate stress analysis activities and review outputs generated using software such as CAESAR II or equivalent.
• Ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards including ASME B31.1, ASME B31.3, ANSI, API, ASTM, MSS, and relevant local regulations.
• Participate in model reviews, constructability reviews, HAZOP studies, safety reviews, and design optimization initiatives.
• Interface with equipment vendors and EPC contractors to review vendor drawings, piping interfaces, and technical documentation.
• Support procurement activities through preparation of material requisitions, technical specifications, bid evaluations, and vendor document reviews.
• Resolve piping-related technical issues during engineering, fabrication, construction, and commissioning phases.
• Conduct site visits and field inspections to verify installation quality and ensure conformance with approved designs.
• Coordinate with civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, and instrumentation disciplines for integrated project execution.
• Support project planning, scheduling, cost estimation, and progress monitoring activities.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior piping designers and engineers.
• Participate in commissioning and start-up activities to ensure successful handover to operations.

Skills and Qualifications

• 10 - 15 years of progressive experience in piping design and engineering within iron ore processing, beneficiation plants, pellet plants, steel manufacturing facilities, or other heavy industrial process plants.
• Strong knowledge of industrial piping systems, pipe materials, valves, fittings, and support design.
• Experience with industrial utility systems including water, compressed air, steam, natural gas, slurry, process fluids, and cooling systems.
• Proficiency in engineering and design software such as AutoCAD Plant 3D, PDMS, E3D, SmartPlant 3D (SP3D), CAESAR II, Navisworks, or equivalent platforms.
• Strong understanding of piping stress analysis, flexibility studies, and support design methodologies.
• Familiarity with material handling systems, slurry pipelines, water systems, compressed air systems, fuel gas systems, and utility piping networks.
• Working knowledge of metallurgical and mineral processing operations is highly preferred.
• Experience reviewing fabrication drawings, construction packages, and vendor documentation.
• Knowledge of US engineering standards, industrial safety regulations, and environmental compliance requirements.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, organizational, and project coordination skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary and multicultural project environment.
• Experience working with EPC contractors and industrial plant construction projects in North America is preferred.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Piping Engineering, or related field.

Mesabi Metallics Company LLC is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute to our success.