Maintenance Technician

Location: Waukesha, WI 53186 | Employment Type: Hourly | Work Designation: Onsite | Shift: Second

Position Summary

Repairs and maintains machinery, mechanical equipment, and systems in both the DSM and Margarine/Oil areas. Utilizes skill set to support Production Machine Operators, decrease equipment downtime, and maintain optimal operating conditions using company‑approved food safety practices and policies.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform corrective and emergency maintenance on food packaging/processing equipment to maximize machine up‑time.
• Complete scheduled preventative maintenance and assigned work orders to increase asset life.
• Troubleshoot and resolve minor mechanical/electrical equipment issues.
• Rebuild pumps, mills, gearboxes, and other miscellaneous mechanical components.
• Assist Production Machine Operators in troubleshooting equipment problems.
• Support production operators with changeovers and machine setups to raise skill levels within the department.
• Execute miscellaneous projects and duties within the maintenance department.
• Support the SQF Program and promote food safety.

Education and Experience

• 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
• Ability to identify bearing type and size for lubrication and select appropriate lubrication amounts.

Knowledge and Skills

• Demonstrated mechanical competency; able to work on support equipment.
• Ability to operate and troubleshoot basic packaging equipment.
• Basic electrical competency.
• Proficient in Excel and PowerPoint.
• Proficient in JDE; able to create and close work orders.
• Competent use of hand/power tools and shop equipment.
• Understanding and history of following GMP and related food manufacturing policies.
• Knowledge and utilization of safety programs such as LOTO and confined‑space entry.
• Ability to read 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 consumer brands. Employees receive strong training, supportive management, a safe environment, and challenging work. The company invests in employee growth, offering career advancement, competitive compensation, and a culture that values respect, collaboration, and integrity.

Benefits

• Retirement savings options
• Employee Appreciation Events and Employee Assistance Programs
• On‑the‑job training

Physical Demands

All jobs require sufficient physical strength and dexterity, including intermittent sitting, standing, walking, climbing, squatting, kneeling, pushing, and pulling. Occasional lifting or moving up to 50 lb (or more with assistance) may be required.

Work Environment

Employees may work outside or in adverse temperatures (extreme heat, cold, humidity), be exposed to vibrations, chemicals, fumes, and food allergens (e.g., soy, dairy), and work in confined or dark spaces and at heights exceeding 18 feet.

Requirements

• Typical shifts are 8–12 hours per day; additional unscheduled time after hours and on weekends may be required.
• Willingness and ability to wear personal protective equipment as required by company policy or law.
• Compliance with safety programs such as LOTO and confined‑space entry.

Our Culture

Ventura Foods is committed to treating every employee with respect and fostering an environment where people can do their best work. The company values diverse strengths, backgrounds, and experiences to drive innovation, growth, and customer success.