Position SummaryKey ResponsibilitiesQualificationsPhysical RequirementsCompensation & Schedule
Maintenance TechnicianOur client, a leading plastic injection molding manufacturer serving diverse markets, is seeking a skilled Maintenance Technician to ensure optimal performance and reliability of automated production equipment. This is a 1st shift position Monday through Friday 7am to 4pm with a rotating shift on Saturday's.
Position Summary
The Maintenance Technician is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and improving production and auxiliary equipment to minimize downtime and maximize operating efficiency. This includes both preventive and corrective maintenance across mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems.
Key Responsibilities
Diagnose and repair equipment issues quickly to minimize production interruptions.
Perform preventive maintenance and ensure all machinery is operating safely and efficiently.
Fabricate or modify parts using shop tools and standard machining equipment.
Maintain accurate inventory of parts and supplies, coordinating with purchasing or stores personnel as needed.
Service and repair production equipment including chillers, dryers, loaders, grinders, conveyors, and other auxiliary systems.
Collaborate with engineering, production, and tooling departments to identify root causes and implement sustainable fixes.
Maintain compliance with safety procedures, housekeeping standards, and company policies.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and contribute to equipment upgrades or modifications.
Qualifications
Minimum of 7–10 years of hands-on maintenance experience in a manufacturing environment.
Strong knowledge of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.
Proven troubleshooting ability on production and auxiliary equipment.
Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, and blueprints.
Experience with machine tool operation, welding, or machining preferred.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
Excellent communication and organizational skills.
Physical Requirements
Frequent walking, standing, bending, and climbing in a manufacturing setting.
Ability to lift up to 55 pounds regularly.
Work may involve confined spaces, elevated areas, or exposure to moderate noise levels.
Must wear appropriate PPE and adhere to all safety protocols.
Compensation & Schedule
Competitive hourly wage or salary commensurate with experience.
Full-time position with benefits; overtime or off-shift support may be required.
Freqently Asked Questions
Expertise in diagnosing complex mechanical and electrical faults is essential for a Maintenance Technician in Chicago’s plastic manufacturing industry. Skills like interpreting electrical schematics, repairing pneumatic systems, and hands-on experience with machine tools significantly boost efficiency and reduce production downtime.
Maintenance Technicians often transition into supervisory or engineering support roles by gaining proficiency in advanced troubleshooting and continuous improvement processes. Developing cross-functional skills, such as welding or blueprint reading, can accelerate growth in dynamic manufacturing environments like those in Chicago.
Chicago’s manufacturing hubs demand technicians to handle a broad mix of machinery including chillers and conveyors, often under tight schedules. Seasonal shifts and local safety regulations also shape daily tasks, requiring adaptability to both routine preventive and urgent corrective maintenance.
Dunson & Associates offers a unique blend of hands-on maintenance with strong collaboration across departments, emphasizing sustainable fixes and equipment upgrades. Their focus on rotating Saturday shifts and first-shift stability caters well to technicians seeking consistent yet varied schedules in Chicago.
While not explicitly stated, candidates demonstrating strong troubleshooting, welding skills, and experience with mechanical and electrical systems align well with Dunson & Associates’ standards. Prior work in plastic injection molding or related manufacturing sectors enhances fit for their Maintenance Technician roles.
Chicago's manufacturing sector maintains steady demand for skilled Maintenance Technicians, leading to moderate competition. Dunson & Associates benefits from this by attracting candidates with 7–10 years of varied mechanical and electrical expertise who seek stable, full-time roles with benefits.
Maintenance Technicians in Chicago typically earn between $55,000 and $70,000 annually, reflecting experience and skill level. Dunson & Associates offers competitive compensation aligned with market rates, often providing hourly wages or salaries that reward proficiency in mechanical, electrical, and preventive maintenance.
Physical requirements like regular lifting of up to 55 pounds, climbing, and navigating confined spaces are integral to this role. Employees must consistently use proper PPE and adhere to safety protocols, ensuring both personal well-being and uninterrupted operation of complex manufacturing equipment.
Progressing to Maintenance Technician II or III involves mastering more sophisticated machinery and taking on increased troubleshooting responsibilities. In Chicago’s manufacturing landscape, this progression reflects deeper technical knowledge and often leads to higher pay and supervisory opportunities.
Machine Maintenance Technicians focus primarily on specific production equipment like injection molding machines, requiring specialized skills in machine tool operation and adjustments. In contrast, general Maintenance Technicians handle a wider array of auxiliary systems, providing broader but less specialized maintenance coverage.
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