Machine Operator/Machine Maintenance

Position Summary:
Responsible for advanced troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and technical support across production and pre-processing equipment. Serves as the team's escalation point for mechanical, electrical, and process issues beyond routine operation, mentors Production Technicians, and supports the transition to multi-shift operations.

Key Responsibilities:
- Remain hands-on in day-to-day production: operate and set up assigned equipment, perform routine adjustments and cleaning, and support material handling and forklift operation alongside Production Technicians.
- Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on production and pre-processing equipment (e.g., furnace/drying systems, briquetting press, industrial air compressor) in accordance with established procedures and PM schedules.
- Diagnose and resolve mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic issues beyond standard operator troubleshooting; escalate to engineering or outside vendors when needed.
- Lead machine set-ups, changeovers, and complex adjustments; calibrate and verify process instrumentation (e.g., O2 sensors, temperature probes, pressure gauges/regulators).
- Complete and document preventive maintenance activities, repair records, and parts/inventory needs to support minimal unplanned downtime.
- Train, mentor, and provide hands-on support to Production Technicians on operating procedures, safety practices, and basic troubleshooting.
- Provide technical coverage across shifts as needed to support multi-shift production and off-hours equipment issues.
- Partner with the Production Leader on root cause analysis for recurring downtime and recommend equipment or process improvements.
- Ensure full compliance with safety procedures (PPE, lockout/tagout, respiratory protection, confined space where applicable) during all maintenance activities.
- Accurately track and report downtime, repair details, and OEE-impacting events.

Qualifications:
- 5 years of experience in industrial maintenance or machine operation with progressive troubleshooting and repair responsibility (metal recycling/processing environment preferred).
- Strong mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic troubleshooting skills; able to independently read and interpret wiring diagrams, schematics, and technical manuals.
- Experience with furnace/drying systems, hydraulic presses, or industrial compressors strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to plan and execute preventive maintenance programs.
- Forklift certification required; comfortable with hands-on material handling as part of daily duties.
- Welding, fabrication, or metalworking experience is a plus.
- Strong communication and mentoring skills; comfortable training and supporting other technicians.
- Proficient with computer-based maintenance logs, work order systems, and basic office software.
- Willingness to work flexible shifts, including nights, weekends, and overtime, as production demands require.

Work Environment & Physical Demands:
Active presence on the manufacturing floor and in equipment/mechanical areas, with the ability to lift up to 50 pounds, stand, walk, climb, and use hands and arms for maintenance and repair tasks, including work near heat sources and moving machinery. Shift hours based on production schedules, which may include nights, weekends, and overtime.

Pay: $20.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Work Location: In person

Salary : $20 - $30