Maintenance Mechanic

Location: Portland, OR 97220 • Onsite • First shift • Hourly

About the role

Repairs and maintains machinery, mechanical equipment, and systems in both the DSM and Margarine/Oil departments. Supports Production Machine Operators to increase skill levels and decrease equipment downtime while maintaining optimal operating conditions using company-approved food-safety practices and policies.

Responsibilities

• Performs corrective and emergency maintenance on food packaging and processing equipment to maximize machine uptime.
• Completes scheduled preventive maintenance and assigned work orders to extend asset life.
• Troubleshoots and resolves minor mechanical and electrical equipment issues.
• Rebuilds pumps, mills, gearboxes, and other mechanical components.
• Assists Production Machine Operators in troubleshooting equipment problems.
• Supports production operators with changeovers and machine setups to increase skill levels within the production department.
• Handles miscellaneous assigned projects and duties within the maintenance department.
• Supports the SQF Program and promotes food safety.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent (preferred).
• Capable of performing duties of a Production Machine Technician.
• Minor AC/DC electrical troubleshooting skills.
• Basic understanding of mechanical applications and principles, including part identification.
• At least 2 years of experience in a food manufacturing plant.
• Basic knowledge of at least two of the following:
  • Packaging equipment repair and maintenance
  • Processing equipment repair and maintenance
  • HVAC systems repair and maintenance
  • Hydraulic systems troubleshooting and repair
• Able to identify bearing type and size for lubrication.
• Able to identify the correct lubrication and amount for all lubricated surfaces.

Skills

• Mechanical competency with ability to perform work on support equipment.
• Ability to operate and troubleshoot basic packaging equipment.
• Basic electrical competency.
• Proficient in Excel, PowerPoint, and JDE (able to create and close work orders).
• Basic use of hand/power tools and shop equipment.
• Understanding and history of following GMP and other food manufacturing policies.
• Knowledge and utilization of safety programs such as LOTO and confined space entry.
• Ability to understand technical drawings, diagrams, verbal instructions, and basic hand-drawn documents.

Why join us

Ventura Foods innovates and manufactures food solutions for foodservice and retail businesses, creating exclusive products for iconic restaurants and retailers. We provide ready-to-go solutions for professional kitchens and consumer brands everyone knows and loves. As part of our team, you’ll receive:

• A strong foundation of training and a manager who cares about your success.
• A safe work environment and challenging opportunities.
• Career growth opportunities and competitive compensation and benefits, including:
  • Retirement savings options.
  • Employee Appreciation Events and Employee Assistance Programs.
  • On-the-job training.

Your future is limited only by how much you’re willing to push yourself. We invest in your growth because you invest in ours.

Physical demands

• Intermittent sitting, standing, walking, climbing, squatting, kneeling, pushing, and pulling.
• Occasional lifting and/or moving up to 50 pounds or more with assistance.
• Work outside and/or in adverse temperatures (extreme heat, cold, humidity).
• Exposure to vibrations, chemicals, fumes, and food allergens (may include soy, dairy, and others).
• Work in confined and dark spaces, and at heights in excess of 18 feet.

Schedule

• Typical shifts are 8–12 hours per day.
• Additional unscheduled time after hours and on weekends may be required.
• Must be willing and able to wear personal protective equipment as required by company policy and legal requirements.