Maintenance technicians are responsible for all production line, equipment, and facility maintenance, as well as troubleshooting and repairing mechanical or electrical issues as they arise. They ensure smooth operations in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
This job requires strong technical skills, making it an excellent career choice for those with a passion for working on complex systems.
At Church & Dwight, this role embodies a collective energy and ambition, contributing to a culture where each individual can make a real difference. With an open and supportive team, maintenance technicians have the freedom to take responsibility and ownership. While we might not be the largest company in our industry, we believe we can have the biggest impact because: Together We Have the Power to Win.
What does a maintenance technician do?
A maintenance technician's job requires the skills to help perform both preventative and emergency maintenance in manufacturing or industrial settings. They help troubleshoot and quickly repair any mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or electrical problems that arise with manufacturing processes and supporting equipment and systems in the facility. Troubleshooting is typically at least 50% of the job, with the ability to read ladder logic and understand PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) being essential. Day-to-day duties vary depending on what needs attention that day, although setups and changeovers typically comprise a low percentage of the job.
The maintenance team's primary goal is to ensure the manufacturing process remains fully operational and to minimize downtime. Failure to achieve this can result in reduced output, compromised quality standards, potential destruction of faulty products, and significant revenue loss. Conducting RCAs (root cause analysis) as a follow-up to troubleshooting is crucial for preventing recurring issues.
Another key responsibility is to keep up-to-date records, especially in highly controlled and regulated environments, such as pharmaceutical manufacturing. Detailed documentation includes schematics and records of preventative maintenance activities, ensuring compliance and operational efficiency.
What are maintenance technicians’ responsibilities and duties?
In large plants, the job of a maintenance technician can be specialized, focusing on instrumentation, facilities, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or electrical systems. In smaller plants, they might take on a more general role.
Maintenance technicians often work in shifts and may be required to provide ‘on-call’ support, depending on the specifics of the job. They usually work as part of a maintenance team within the facility.
Essential Functions:
- Responsible at all times for promoting a safety culture and awareness within their area.
- Support and adhere to all plant safety policies and procedures at all times.
- Perform troubleshooting, facility, equipment, and production line repairs, shop fabrication, pipe fitting (PVC and stainless), and machine set-up in support of high-speed production lines.
- Perform all maintenance activities such as predictive and preventative maintenance, work orders and improvement projects via the CMMS system.
- Coordinate and perform all maintenance activities (PM, work orders, improvement projects, etc.) to effectively balance maintenance and production needs.
- Perform technical work while running production lines in pneumatic, hydraulic and electrical areas.
- Maintain packaging equipment including machine adjustments, repairs, lubrication, etc. in support of Line Mechanics and Technical Line Operators.
- Root cause analysis to troubleshoot and eliminate primary causes of downtime, etc. to improve OEE (overall equipment effectiveness).
- Equipment and facilities maintenance including maintenance and repair of all building and ground support systems.
- Active participation in training and certification program as needed in technical aspects of machinery including set-ups, changeovers, troubleshooting, etc.
- Ensures all quality and food safety practices are followed at all times in support of the VMS (vitamin and mineral supplement) business.
- Assist with the training and certification program as needed. All other related duties as required and assigned.
How to become a maintenance technician?
Candidates looking for a career in this sector typically need a high school diploma or GED required 3-5 years proven maintenance mechanic experience in a fast-paced lean manufacturing environment preferred; CPG (consumer packaged goods) industry a plus Strong mechanical aptitude including knowledge of three phases electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic and PLC controls, shop math skills and strong troubleshooting ability required Strong computer skills required; previous experience with SAP or CMMS preferred.
Newly hired maintenance technicians usually receive on-the-job training to develop the specific skills and knowledge required for their job.
What skills do I need?
All round and technical skills include:
- Proactive: Maintenance technician jobs involve performing preventative checks and routine inspections, anticipate issues, and take corrective measures.
- Deductive reasoning: Independently identify and isolate root causes of problems based on observation or reports from the production team.
- Creative problem-solving: Work independently, resolve machinery issues, and devise solutions in emergency situations.
- Manual dexterity: Skillfully use hands or tools for precise movements.
- Natural understanding of machinery: Develop an intuitive understanding of equipment and machinery and quickly detect anomalies.
- Clear verbal communication: Interpret maintenance issues and clearly communicate interventions or repairs.
- Clear written communication: Read and interpret maintenance documentation, maintain accurate records, and ensure compliance.
- IT skills: Maintain databases, logs, reports, and communicate across teams.
- Team working: Collaborate with maintenance and production team members to minimize downtime.
- Time management: Plan and execute routine maintenance and respond to unexpected equipment issues efficiently.
Are you seeking a career as a facilities maintenance technician?
Then you’re in the right place. Take a look at our open roles for maintenance technician jobs and other similar roles Church & Dwight.
