Lead Maintenance Technician

Position Summary:

The Lead Maintenance Technician is responsible for leading and performing maintenance, repair, and preventive service for all equipment and systems at the propane cylinder refurbishing plant. This includes machinery involved in cylinder cleaning, shot blasting, painting, testing, filling, and packaging. The Lead Technician ensures equipment reliability, safety compliance, and efficient operation of all production systems while providing hands-on technical support and leadership to the maintenance team.

Key Responsibilities:

•    Lead the maintenance team in day-to-day tasks, prioritizing work orders to support production schedules and minimize downtime.

•    Perform preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance on all plant equipment including conveyors, shot blast machines, paint booths, pressure testing stations, dryers, and automated handling systems.

•    Troubleshoot and repair mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic equipment.

•    Maintain and troubleshoot air compressors, pumps, and ventilation systems supporting refurbishing and painting operations.

•    Ensure safe maintenance practices in a flammable material environment, adhering to NFPA, OSHA, and company safety standards.

•    Oversee lockout/tagout (LOTO) and other safety procedures during maintenance activities.

•    Coordinate and schedule equipment downtime for repairs and preventive maintenance without disrupting production flow.

•    Maintain accurate records of work orders, PM logs, and parts usage in the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).

•    Support equipment installation, upgrades, and plant improvement projects.

•    Train maintenance technicians on safe work methods, troubleshooting, and equipment operation.

•    Manage spare parts inventory and ensure critical components are available.

•    Assist in maintaining the facility’s propane, compressed air, and electrical systems, ensuring compliance with all local and federal regulations.

•    Communicate maintenance status, upcoming projects, and safety issues to management.

•    Respond to emergency breakdowns and after-hours calls as needed

Required Qualifications:

•    High school diploma or GED required; technical or vocational training in industrial maintenance, mechatronics, or a related field preferred.

•    5 years of industrial maintenance experience, preferably in gas cylinder processing, coatings, or a related manufacturing environment.

•    Solid understanding of mechanical systems, pneumatics, hydraulics, and industrial electrical systems (up to 480V).

•    Experience troubleshooting PLC-controlled equipment and automated conveyors (preferred).

•    Familiarity with painting, blasting, and pressure testing systems a strong plus.

•    Ability to read blueprints, schematics, and technical manuals.

•    Strong understanding of hazardous area classification, explosion-proof equipment, and fire safety requirements.

•    Proficient with hand tools, diagnostic instruments, and CMMS software.

•    Strong communication and leadership skills with the ability to mentor junior technicians.

•    Must be physically able to lift up to 50 lbs, climb ladders, and work in confined spaces or elevated areas.

•    Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends or on-call rotations.

Preferred Qualifications:

•    Certification or formal training in industrial maintenance, electrical systems, or mechanical repair.

•    Experience with welding, fabrication, and pipe fitting (especially for compressed air or propane systems).

•    Familiarity with NFPA 58 (Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code) and OSHA safety regulations.

•    Background in Lean Maintenance (TPM, 5S) and continuous improvement initiatives.

Core Competencies:

•    Technical Expertise: Deep understanding of plant equipment and repair techniques.

•    Safety Leadership: Promotes and enforces strict safety and environmental standards.

•    Team Leadership: Motivates, trains, and supports maintenance personnel.

•    Problem Solving: Quickly identifies and resolves mechanical and operational issues.

•    Accountability: Takes ownership of maintenance performance and results.

•    Communication: Coordinates effectively across departments and management.