maintenance tech

Job Summary:

The Maintenance Technician is responsible for ensuring the optimal performance, reliability, and safety of all machinery and equipment used in the production of ice cream. This position requires troubleshooting, repairing, and performing preventative maintenance on production equipment, ensuring minimal downtime and maintaining compliance with health and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Equipment Maintenance and Repairs:
• Perform routine and emergency repairs on manufacturing equipment, including mixers, pasteurizers, freezers, packaging machines, and refrigeration systems.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic issues with production machinery.
• Ensure all repairs are completed in a timely and efficient manner to minimize production downtime.
• Preventative Maintenance:
• Conduct regular inspections and preventative maintenance on all equipment to ensure they operate at optimal efficiency.
• Replace worn-out or damaged parts before they cause major breakdowns.
• Document maintenance activities and report on equipment conditions regularly.
• Safety and Compliance:
• Follow all safety protocols and procedures while operating and repairing equipment.
• Ensure that equipment meets OSHA, FDA, and other regulatory standards.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment by following all GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) guidelines.
• Technical Support and Troubleshooting:
• Provide technical support to production teams by identifying issues and providing recommendations for improvements.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to implement effective solutions and upgrades.
• Inventory and Supplies Management:
• Maintain and order spare parts and necessary maintenance supplies.
• Keep accurate records of equipment usage, spare parts inventory, and maintenance activities.
• Training and Documentation:
• Assist in training production personnel on proper equipment use, cleaning, and safety procedures.
• Maintain comprehensive maintenance logs and documentation for all service and repairs.
• Continuous Improvement:
• Recommend and implement improvements to manufacturing processes, equipment, and workflows to increase efficiency and reduce costs.
• Participate in continuous improvement projects and initiatives.

Qualifications:

• Education:
• High school diploma or GED required; technical certification or associate degree in industrial maintenance, electrical engineering, or related field preferred.
• Experience:
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in industrial maintenance, preferably in food manufacturing or a similar production environment.
• Experience with refrigeration systems, pasteurizers, or other ice cream manufacturing equipment is a plus.
• Skills:
• Strong knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic systems.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, manuals, and technical drawings.
• Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with safety procedures and regulatory requirements (OSHA, FDA, GMP, etc.).
• Strong communication skills and ability to work as part of a team.
• Ability to operate various hand and power tools.

Working Conditions:

• Must be able to work in a cold manufacturing environment.
• Weekends and overtime work are required to accommodate production schedules or emergencies.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks such as climbing ladders and bending, kneeling, or squatting