What are the responsibilities and job description for the Production Maintenance Mechanic position at SOLO INC?
Solo Incorporated is a manufacturer and importer of sprayers, mist blowers, air blowers, and cut-off saws. We have been in business for over 75 years and in Newport News for 50 years. We sell into the home hardware, lawn & garden, janitorial supply, and construction industries. Solo is a world-wide company with offices in Virginia, Germany, New Zealand, South and Central America, and China.
Job Summary – The Production Maintenance Mechanic is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and improving production and assembly equipment to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operations.
This role supports continuous production by performing mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic, and pneumatic maintenance and repair.
Responsibilities:
· Perform start-up and shutdown of production machinery.
· Troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair equipment issues across mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems.
· Make process adjustments on blow molding and related production equipment.
· Monitor machinery to ensure safe operation and adherence to specifications.
· Conduct routine inspections of workstations and equipment to ensure safety and functionality.
· Maintain and repair assembly equipment to ensure optimal performance.
· Collaborate with the Blow Molding/Process Control leader to meet production goals.
· Identify root causes of equipment failures and implement corrective actions.
· Recommend continuous improvement initiatives to increase efficiency and reduce downtime.
· Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
· Promote teamwork and a positive work culture.
· Comply with all company policies, safety standards, and procedures.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in industrial equipment
· Working knowledge of:
o Hydraulic systems
o Industrial automation equipment.
· Ability to read and interpret schematics, manuals, and technical documents.
· Experience with programmable logic controllers (PLCs).
· Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
· Strong attention to safety, quality, and productivity.
· Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office and data entry/reporting).
· Solid mathematical skills (basic arithmetic).
· Effective verbal and written communication skills.
· Strong organizational and prioritization abilities.
· Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
· Flexibility to work 1st, 2nd, or 3rd shift as needed.
Education & Training:
· High School diploma and equivalent required.
· Technical training or certification in Electrical, Mechanical, and Industrial Maintenance preferred.
o OR
· Equivalent combination of equipment and 3-5 years of relevant experience.
Experience Requirements:
· 3-5 years of hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment
· 3-5 years of hands-on experience maintaining and repairing:
o Electrical systems
o Mechanical systems
o Hydraulic systems
o Pneumatic systems
· Experience with troubleshooting PLC-controlled equipment.
· Experience with blow molding equipment preferred.
· Experience with injection molding equipment preferred.
Physical Requirements:
Seeing: This individual must be able to read instructions or diagrams and work with small machine parts, tools, and equipment.
Hearing/Talking: Must be able to communicate with others by means of spoken words. Must be able to follow verbal instructions.
Sitting/Standing/Walking: Must be able to maintain mobility. This position requires the Engineer to stand for extended periods of time.
Bending/Stooping/Kneeling: Occasional bending/stooping or kneeling to obtain materials.
Fingering/Grasping/Feeling: Must be able to use hands and fingers to work. Manual dexterity is essential to this position.
Lifting: Frequent lifting of up to 25 pounds.
Work Environment:
Work is performed in a manufacturing environment. Exposure to moving mechanical parts; moderate exposure to extreme heat/cold.
.