Maintenance Technician

About the role

The Maintenance Technician installs, diagnoses, troubleshoots, and repairs complex mechanical equipment and distribution systems. The role supports the Maintenance Supervisor in determining daily priorities, establishing work goals, and developing resolutions to common problems. It involves priority repairs and timely, efficient maintenance of Pel-Freez equipment and facilities, including farms, transportation equipment, and the processing plant.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and repair electrical, ventilation, heating, plumbing, refrigeration, air, and water systems across Pel-Freez facilities.
• Maintain and repair a variety of company equipment, including conveying systems, onsite generators, trucks and tractors, HVAC, refrigeration components, and other farm and processing machinery.
• Perform varied work with minimal supervision.
• Utilize the CMS program and respond to all work orders in a timely and professional manner.
• Conduct routine inspection and upkeep of Pel-Freez facilities and equipment.
• Diagnose and repair complex system failures, including lighting, feeding, electrical, refrigeration, and environmental control systems.
• Install, rearrange, and repair complex equipment.
• Dismantle, repair, and reassemble complex equipment.
• Perform work within dominant skill areas, including fabrication, assembly, welding, burning, cutting, layout, and electrical.
• Repair, replace, and build wooden structures as needed, including pouring concrete pads.
• Use typical trade tools, inspection gauges, and electrical multimeters.
• Direct the work of helpers and assist other trades as requested.
• Complete routine paperwork according to established company procedures.
• Read and interpret equipment manuals, work orders, drawings, sketches, or verbal instructions to perform required maintenance and service.
• Move and carry tools and equipment to and from storage and working areas.
• Keep work area, tools, and equipment clean.
• Work with a variety of tools and equipment, including electric drills, wrenches, screwdrivers, grinders, welders, and multimeters.
• Diagnose standard maintenance problems, determine how to correct them, and verify repair.
• Clean debris and lubricant from parts, work area, and equipment.
• Operate production and shop equipment, including a lathe, drill press, grinder, and sander.
• Operate a forklift, tractor, skid steer, and general farm equipment as needed.
• Promptly report safety concerns that cannot be immediately addressed to the Maintenance Supervisor.
• Comply with Pel-Freez, USDA, FSIS, and OSHA policies and procedures, food safety standards, general safety, animal welfare, and good manufacturing practices.
• Exhibit exemplary attendance and punctuality.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent GED.
• Associate degree in mechanical engineering technology and/or completion of a recognized mechanical apprenticeship program.
• Five years of experience in a maintenance mechanic role within a manufacturing, laboratory, and/or farming environment.
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.
• Ability to obtain a forklift certification.
• Valid driver’s license, acceptable motor vehicle driving record, and ability to be covered under the company’s automobile insurance.

Skills

• Knowledge of safety procedures and industry regulations (OSHA, USDA, FSIS).
• Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
• Strong troubleshooting skills and familiarity with farming and industrial equipment.
• Ability to plan, schedule, and perform work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and parts ordering software.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and adjust to changing situations.
• Ability to understand and comply with company policies and procedures, as well as state and federal laws.
• Perform mathematical calculations (addition, subtraction, ratios, percentages, multiplication).
• Physical ability to lift and transport heavy materials safely.
• Attention to detail and ability to meet quality standards while managing priorities.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Use logic and reasoning to identify strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions.

Supervisory Responsibilities

The role involves frequent interaction with co-workers, management, and third-party vendors. May direct the work of helpers and assist other trades as requested.