Facilities Maintenance Technician

At Ellsworth Creamery, our team members are more than employees; they are like family and we are committed to their success. This culture has contributed to the longevity of our staff, whose careers span 10, 20, and even 50 years! Join our team as we work with our cooperative of local farmers to create award-winning cheese.

About the role

This hourly, union, non-exempt position reports to the Maintenance Supervisor and is responsible for maintaining facility systems and production equipment to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient operations. The Facilities Maintenance Technician performs intermediate-level maintenance, troubleshooting, inspections, and repair of facility systems and production equipment. This role proactively identifies and corrects issues to minimize downtime and support reliable operations, working with moderate independence to diagnose issues and maintain plant operations. This position may also be filled by a qualified apprentice actively developing the required technical skills under the guidance of senior maintenance staff.

Responsibilities

• Perform preventive maintenance, inspections, and repairs on facility systems (HVAC, water, steam, utilities).
• Complete repairs to building structures and perform general facility upkeep and appearance, including seasonal tasks.
• Maintain and troubleshoot production and packaging equipment through cleaning, lubrication, and making minor adjustments.
• Assist in the repair and replacement of components such as drives, pumps, valves, knives, chains, etc.
• Support mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and basic electrical systems, including replacing motors, switches, contactors, and performing standard corrective work.
• Complete routine rounds, readings, and equipment checks; perform basic troubleshooting, support calibration activities, and escalate complex issues as needed.
• Utilize, track, and manage work orders and parts ordering through the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all safety policies, procedures, and lockout/tagout (LOTO) and PPE requirements.
• Maintain clean and sanitary work areas in accordance with GMP standards and ensure equipment meets food-safe or operational standards.
• Identify and proactively address potential safety hazards.
• Ensure all work is completed in compliance with company policies and regulatory standards.

Teamwork & Expectations

• Take ownership of assigned areas and equipment performance.
• Communicate effectively with operations, supervisors, and maintenance team members.
• Respond to equipment issues and emergency repairs with a sense of urgency to support production needs.
• Demonstrate reliability, accountability, and a continuous improvement mindset.
• Maintain regular attendance and flexibility for shift or on-call work.
• Perform all other duties as assigned to support operational needs and ensure continuity of coverage.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 2+ years of maintenance experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment preferred; OR enrollment in or completion of a formal maintenance apprenticeship program; OR demonstrated progression from entry-level maintenance skills with proven competency growth.

Skills

• Strong mechanical troubleshooting skills.
• Working knowledge of electrical systems, including 3-phase power.
• Basic understanding of PLC operations and diagnostics preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret technical schematics and manuals.
• Basic math skills (add, subtract, multiply, divide, and unit conversions).
• Basic welding and fabrication skills preferred.
• Understanding of food manufacturing processes and sanitation standards.
• Ability to work independently while recognizing when to escalate issues.
• Strong communication and documentation skills.
• Ability to work in a team environment and promote a positive workplace culture.
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, weekends, and on-call as required.
• Basic computer skills preferred.

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift 50+ lbs. repetitively.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and climb stairs or ladders for extended periods.
• Comfortable working at heights and in confined spaces.
• Ability to work in varying environmental conditions.
• Pass a drug & alcohol screen and general background check.

Work Environment

Food manufacturing plant environment, both indoors and outdoors. Exposure to noise, temperature changes, humidity, and weather conditions. Must adhere to all food safety, quality, and plant safety policies and regulations.

Benefits

• 80 hours of PTO in the first year of service.
• Affordable medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Supplemental insurances: Accidental, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity.
• 401k & Pension.
• Company-provided benefits: STD, LTD, Life Insurances.

Our Ellsworth, Wisconsin facility specializes solely in the production of our world-famous All Natural White Cheddar Cheese Curds, both natural and flavored, our All Natural Cheddar Cheese Curd Crumbles, and sweet whey powder. Committed to our Team, Craft & Community, Since 1910.