Kitchen Equipment Maintenance and Repair Technician

Responsibilities

• Perform routine maintenance, inspections, and preventive maintenance on commercial kitchen equipment including ovens, ranges, grills, fryers, steamers, refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, and food preparation equipment
• Diagnose and troubleshoot malfunctions in commercial kitchen equipment using technical manuals, schematics, and diagnostic tools to identify root causes
• Repair or replace defective components including heating elements, thermostats, motors, compressors, pumps, valves, gaskets, and control systems
• Conduct safety inspections and testing to ensure all equipment operates in compliance with health codes, safety regulations, and manufacturer specifications
• Respond promptly to equipment breakdowns and service calls to minimize downtime and maintain food service operations
• Order replacement parts, components, and materials from established vendor and supplier networks to support timely repairs
• Maintain access to and utilize technical manuals, service bulletins, wiring diagrams, and manufacturer specifications for various equipment brands
• Perform gas line connections, adjustments, and repairs on gas-powered equipment in accordance with applicable codes and safety standards
• Test equipment after repairs to ensure proper operation, temperature calibration, and safety compliance
• Clean, adjust, and calibrate kitchen equipment to maintain optimal performance and energy efficiency
• Document all maintenance activities, repairs performed, parts used, and equipment service history in work orders and maintenance logs
• Maintain an organized inventory of commonly used parts, tools, and supplies necessary for routine repairs
• Provide technical guidance and recommendations to kitchen staff on proper equipment operation and care
• Cookware and utensil cleaning and sanitization
• Coordinate with equipment vendors, manufacturers, and service representatives for warranty work and specialized repairs
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations, sanitation standards, and facility safety protocols

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent; technical/trade school training in commercial kitchen equipment repair, refrigeration, or related field preferred
• Minimum of 2 years of verifiable hands-on experience repairing and maintaining commercial kitchen equipment
• Established resources and vendor relationships for ordering parts, components, and accessing technical manuals
• Valid driver's license

Qualifications

• Proven experience repairing commercial food service equipment including ovens, ranges, fryers, grills, steamers, refrigerators, freezers, and dishwashers
• Strong knowledge of commercial kitchen equipment brands, models, and components (e.g., Hobart, Vulcan, Garland, True, Traulsen, Southbend, etc.)
• Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and gas system problems in kitchen equipment
• Proficiency reading and interpreting wiring diagrams, schematics, technical manuals, and service documentation
• Knowledge of refrigeration principles, gas systems, electrical controls, and heating systems
• Experience with gas line installation, repair, and safety procedures
• Mechanical aptitude with hands-on experience using hand tools, power tools, multimeters, and specialized testing equipment
• Understanding of food safety regulations, health codes, and commercial kitchen sanitation standards
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently and make sound technical decisions
• Physical ability to lift up to 75 pounds, move heavy equipment, kneel, bend, and work in various positions
• Excellent organizational skills with ability to maintain accurate service records and documentation
• Effective communication skills with the ability to explain technical issues and provide equipment operation guidance
• Established network of parts suppliers, vendors, and manufacturer representatives
• Ability to respond to emergency service calls and work flexible hours as needed
• Commitment to safety protocols and following proper lockout/tagout procedures
• Detail-oriented with focus on quality workmanship and customer service

Skills And Competencies

• Formal certification in commercial kitchen equipment repair or food service equipment technology
• EPA 608 Certification for refrigerant handling
• Manufacturer-specific certifications from major commercial kitchen equipment brands (Hobart, Vulcan, Garland, etc.)
• Experience working in government facilities, military dining facilities, or institutional food service operations
• Certified Food Equipment Technician (CFET) or Commercial Food Equipment Service Association (CFESA) certification
• Knowledge of computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS)
• Experience with walk-in coolers, reach-in refrigeration units, and commercial ice machines
• Welding, brazing, or pipefitting skills
• Understanding of energy efficiency standards and utility management for commercial kitchen equipment
• Experience with warewashing equipment and water treatment systems
• Knowledge of Building Automation Systems (BAS) and kitchen equipment monitoring systems
• Prior experience supporting federal contracts or Department of Defense dining facilities

Benefits

Competitive compensation and an extraordinary benefits package including health, dental and vision insurance, 401K with company matching, flexible spending accounts, paid holidays, three weeks paid time off, and more.