Maintenance Technician - PLC & Robotics / Mechanical Focus (2nd Shift)

About the Role

As a Maintenance Technician with a mechanical focus on PLC and robotics, you will play a vital role in the Kings Mountain Operations (KMO) facility. You will support safe, continuous production by performing mechanical overhaul, preventive maintenance, repair, and alignment on production machinery, robotics tooling, and automated line systems. Utilizing PLC and robotic troubleshooting capabilities, you will diagnose root causes and verify control interlocks to ensure critical equipment remains in optimal operating condition.

Responsibilities

• Perform primary mechanical maintenance, teardowns, overhauls, and repairs on production equipment, automated machinery, gearboxes, drive systems, and mechanical fixtures.
• Troubleshoot and maintain hydraulic and pneumatic piping systems, cylinders, pumps, valves, and actuators for manual and automated processes in accordance with safety and design specifications.
• Leverage PLC and robotic control knowledge to monitor I/O status, trace control faults, verify interlocks/sensors, and navigate ladder logic or robot pendant interfaces to diagnose mechanical failures efficiently.
• Conduct routine mechanical preventive maintenance (PM) tasks on production equipment, fixtures, tooling, and plant systems to support safe and continuous operations.
• Troubleshoot mechanical components on industrial automation systems, robotic tooling/end-effectors, resistance welding gun hardware, linear actuators, and indexing tables.
• Collaborate with the Quality Assurance team to verify weld quality, fixture alignment, and mechanical tolerances, adjusting systems as needed to meet production standards.
• Read and interpret mechanical assembly blueprints, hydraulic/pneumatic schematics, electrical wiring diagrams, and written technical instructions to fabricate, assemble components, or perform equipment installations.
• Operate forklifts, aerial lifts, and material handling equipment to move tools, heavy mechanical components, or machinery as part of maintenance tasks.
• Maintain proper handling and disposal of hazardous waste materials generated through maintenance activities in compliance with environmental regulations.
• Support a clean, safe, and team-oriented work environment by adhering to workplace safety policies (LOTO, machine guarding), contributing to production quality, and meeting facility performance goals.

Requirements

• High school diploma and/or GED with basic math skills and reading comprehension.
• Strong practical background and hands-on skill in mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic troubleshooting and repair in an industrial production setting.
• Demonstrated ability to read PLC ladder logic and navigate robotic teach pendants for basic diagnostic, I/O verification, and recovery purposes.
• General understanding of industrial safety practices, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) and machine guarding.
• Skilled in the use of mechanical measuring instruments, power tools, shop equipment, and electrical diagnostic hand tools.
• Ability to read mechanical blueprints, hydraulic/pneumatic schematics, wiring diagrams, and maintenance manuals.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Basic computer skills for recordkeeping and CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System) entry.
• Effective communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Technical certification or Associate Degree in Industrial Maintenance Technology, Mechanical Systems, Mechatronics, or related technical field. Will accept 3+ years’ experience in a relevant position.
• Advanced training or hands-on capability in industrial automation, PLC troubleshooting (Allen-Bradley / Siemens), robotics (ABB), or industrial welding.
• Experience with lean maintenance practices and reliability-centered maintenance (RCM).

Work Environment

Work is primarily performed indoors in a manufacturing facility; occasional outdoor work may be required for facility maintenance.

• Regular exposure to loud noise, grease, oil, dust, electrical currents, and potentially hazardous materials.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, reaching, and climbing ladders or stairs.
• Manual dexterity required for operating hand tools, mechanical assemblies, and handling parts.
• Regularly required to lift or move items up to 50 lbs; heavier lifting may require team assistance or equipment use.
• Schedule may require rotating shifts, weekend work, overtime to support 24/7 operations.
• Designated as essential personnel during facility emergencies or operational disruptions.

Schedule

2nd Shift (Shift differential applicable; rotating shift, weekend work, overtime as required).

Pay

The base pay for this position is set at $24.55 - $30.32 per hour, and where applicable, bonus eligible. The range and final salary offered are determined by several factors including geographic location, work-related knowledge, certifications, skills, education, and experience.

Benefits

• Competitive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off.
• Competitive matching retirement savings plans.
• Focus on professional and personal development through Volvo Group University.
• Programs that support work-life balance.