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
For maintenance technicians in Chicago’s plastic molding industry, expertise in mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems is crucial. Proficiency in reading schematics and hands-on troubleshooting significantly enhances job performance, aligning with the city's demand for versatile machine maintenance professionals.
Maintenance Technicians often progress by mastering complex machinery repair, leading teams, or specializing in areas like electrical or hydraulic systems. Gaining certifications and cross-departmental collaboration experience can open paths to supervisory roles or engineering support positions within manufacturing.
Day-to-day hurdles include diagnosing unexpected equipment failures, coordinating preventive maintenance without disrupting production, and fabricating necessary parts onsite. Balancing efficiency with safety protocols in a bustling environment tests both technical skill and adaptability.
Career Search Associates emphasizes a blend of mechanical and electrical expertise with a focus on plastic injection molding equipment. Their culture prioritizes continuous improvement and cross-team collaboration, offering a dynamic environment compared to more segmented maintenance roles elsewhere.
The company encourages proactive involvement in equipment modifications and continuous improvement projects. This hands-on approach fosters skill advancement in machining, welding, and troubleshooting, ensuring technicians stay at the forefront of manufacturing technology.
Maintenance Technicians in Chicago typically earn between $55,000 and $75,000 annually depending on experience, with this position offering competitive hourly wages and potential overtime. The plastic manufacturing sector often provides benefits and stability reflecting the specialized skill set required.
Certifications such as OSHA safety training, electrical or mechanical maintenance credentials, and welding qualifications enhance employability in Chicago. Local manufacturers often value these credentials to comply with safety regulations and improve maintenance efficiency.
Chicago's moderate cost of living balances competitive wages for maintenance roles. The city's manufacturing base ensures steady demand for skilled technicians, but candidates should anticipate salary offers that reflect local living expenses and industry competition.
Technicians engage with automated plastic injection molding equipment, chillers, conveyors, grinders, and auxiliary systems. Familiarity with machine tools, welding gear, and diagnostic instruments is essential for efficient repairs and preventive maintenance.
Chicago’s robust manufacturing sector creates solid demand for maintenance technicians, though competition can be higher than in smaller markets. The city's diverse industrial base offers varied opportunities, making it attractive for those with broad mechanical and electrical skills.
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