Ben Butler

Result-oriented Project and Process Engineer utilizing 15+ years of technical competence and mechanical acumen to meet diverse business needs. Analytical thinker skilled in designing processes, developing quality standards, troubleshooting and diagnosing faulty equipment and process gaps, drafting policies, and developing process safety best practices. Strong leader and people-focused professional with the ability to execute projects, improve processes and solve complex engineering problems by forming and working collaboratively with cross-functional teams at multiple levels.

Highly proficient with analytical chemistry instruments and techniques, including equilibria, kinetics, and thermodynamics. Excellent knowledge of material science and fluid mechanics. Well versed in project management, project engineering, and all stages of project development and execution.

Lead Production and Project Engineer - GE Aerospace - Madison, AL

(2024-01 - 2026-12)

Led efforts to maintain, optimize, and improve production processes for the delivery of raw materials to downstream processes and treatment of upstream water sources. Continually worked with cross-functional teams to implement best production practices, equipment, and resources for future growth of the production area.

• Led complex engineering projects improving equipment reliability, throughput, production efficiency, and operational safety; generating yearly cost savings of $500K/year.
• Coordinated and utilized cross-functional teams from operations, maintenance, engineering, and EHS
• Led teams for incident and root cause investigations, process and safety audits, project execution, and process troubleshooting.
• Participated and led in-unit and project Process Hazard Analysis to identify operational gaps and generate solutions.
• Routinely led troubleshooting and diagnosing efforts on faulty equipment; producing repairs and outcomes that improved long term reliability of processes.
• Collaborated with operators to revise and develop SOPs, P&IDs, and PSI to current states of the process and standards.
• Established PSM compliance for the OSHA 1910.119 regulation for all area processes.

Process Engineer / Process Safety Engineer / Engineering Intern - Big West Oil LLC - North SLC, UT

(2021-01 - 2024-12)

Process Safety Engineer overseeing the PSM 1910.119 site compliance. Process Engineer covering the refinery's Crude Distillation, Saturated Gas Plant, Butamer Isom, and Utilities.

• Continually optimized operation of the Crude Distillation unit to achieve precise product yields for changing crude slates. Worked with operators to monitor, adjust, and track potential improvements for optimum production.
• Implemented complex process and equipment projects to modernize the fractionation train for current and expansion cases. Total cost savings and increased production potential show $10M/yr. increased bottom line.
• Led projects to increase reliability through improved monitoring of process states.
• Participated and led planning efforts for refinery turnarounds, resulting in improved schedule compliance below budget.
• Revamped Aspen HYSYS simulation models for increased accuracy when comparing to process data.
• Drafted/revised/updated over 20 different PSM and operation policy documents.
• Showcased notable improvements in safety equipment by submitting revisions on numerous P&IDs.
• Oversaw internal and external audits while driving safety awareness through operational and mechanical upgrades.
• Expert using the KMS QHSE application for tracking major safety activities such as incidents, MOCs, and recommendation action items.
• Significantly improved KPIs by leading a company-wide effort to reduce past due incident investigations, MOCs, and action items.

Chemist / Quality Control Analytical Technician III - Ultradent Products - South Jordan, UT

(2013-01 - 2019-12)

Analyzed chemical composition of manufactured materials and products. Took ownership of training technicians and chemists on complex wet chemistry and instrumentation methods, such as loss-on-drying, viscosity, specific gravity solution standardizations, titrations, FTIR, IC, GC, HPLC/UPLC, ISE, pH, UV/VIS, and reagent preparations.

• Ensured optimal safety and effectiveness in analytical testing by integrating continuous improvement methodology in the laboratory, thus saving tremendously on equipment maintenance, controlling chemical inventory, and maintaining new safety standards.
• Utilized technical capabilities to develop and implement methods following cGMP, ISO, and FDA compliance. Successfully completed process and instrument validations for developed and R&D products.

Automotive Technician - B.J.'s Mobile Auto - Murray, UT

(2012-01 - 2013-12)

Owner/operator for a full-service automotive repair business. Involved in servicing, repairing, and maintaining all makes and models of automobiles, motorcycles, and recreational vehicles.

• Critically inspected and led major engine, suspension, and electrical diagnostics and troubleshooting, as well as exhaust/welding fabrication.

Fabricator / Machinist / Engineering Technician - Dr. Gas Inc. - Sandy, UT

(2005-01 - 2011-12)

Performed end-to-end operational activities for a sheet metal and automotive exhaust operation. Collaborated with manufacturers, engineers, and race car teams to design, fabricate, and assemble top-quality and high-performing heavy-duty components. Engineered jigs and fixtures for producing close tolerance and durable race car products. Formed procedures and methods to build aerospace-quality tubing systems.

• Successfully manufactured robust products by utilizing multi-axis lathes, mills, and sheet metal forming equipment for a high-end producer and distributor of performance exhaust system products.

Bachelor of Science - Chemical Engineering - University of Utah Salt Lake City, UT

Associate of Science - Chemical Engineering, Chemistry & General Studies - Salt Lake Community College Salt Lake City, UT