Maintenance Technician
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
Mastering mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems is crucial for a Maintenance Technician in manufacturing. Skills in troubleshooting, reading schematics, and fabricating parts can significantly reduce downtime and improve equipment reliability in fast-paced environments like plastic injection molding.
On the 1st shift, the focus is on preventive and corrective maintenance to keep production seamless from 7am to 4pm. Rotating Saturdays often involve handling urgent repairs or equipment upgrades, requiring adaptability and readiness to support off-peak operations to minimize downtime.
Chicago's manufacturing sector demands seasoned Maintenance Technicians with diverse mechanical and electrical expertise. While competition is moderate, candidates with 7+ years experience and skills in pneumatic and hydraulic systems typically have an advantage due to the city's strong industrial base.
Certifications like OSHA safety training, IPC electrical certification, or hydraulics and pneumatics credentials can boost hiring prospects. Chicago employers often value these qualifications alongside hands-on experience to ensure compliance with safety standards and operational excellence.
Expect frequent movements including walking, bending, climbing, and lifting items up to 55 pounds. Working in confined spaces or elevated areas with exposure to moderate noise levels requires physical stamina and strict adherence to personal protective equipment protocols.
Starting as a general technician, one can advance to specialized roles like Electrical or Mechanical Maintenance Technician, then to supervisory or engineering liaison positions. Continuous skill development in troubleshooting and equipment upgrades opens pathways to leadership and technical expert roles.
They emphasize collaboration between maintenance, engineering, production, and tooling departments to identify root causes and implement sustainable fixes. This teamwork approach fosters a culture of continuous improvement and operational efficiency.
Yes, technicians actively participate in fabricating or modifying parts and contribute to equipment upgrades. This involvement supports hands-on skill enhancement and promotes innovation within the manufacturing process.
Maintenance Technicians in Chicago with this experience typically earn between $25 to $35 per hour, depending on skill set and overtime eligibility. Competitive wages align with industry standards to attract professionals adept in mechanical and electrical maintenance.