1St Shift Machine Maintenance Apprentice - Manual Machinist Focus

Lindt & Sprüngli USA; Stratham (NH); On-site; USD 34,440 - 35,817; Full time

Job summary

A leading chocolate manufacturer in Stratham, New Hampshire, is seeking a Maintenance Apprentice to engage in a structured apprenticeship program focusing on manual machining and maintenance. You will support experienced mechanics, learn to operate various machining equipment, and complete preventative maintenance tasks. This role requires a high school diploma and an associate’s degree is preferred. Flexible shifts are necessary as per business needs. Compensation ranges from $25 to $26 per hour depending on experience.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated commitment to teamwork, with strong interpersonal skills.
• Exposure to or interest in manual machining, including familiarity with basic machining tools.
• Growth-oriented mindset with a willingness to learn new trade skills and advanced techniques.

Responsibilities

• Assist experienced production mechanics with troubleshooting and repairs.
• Perform preventative maintenance tasks as skills and training progress.
• Rebuild and repair mechanical assemblies offline for re-installation into production equipment.

Skills

Teamwork and interpersonal skills

Interest in manual machining

Growth-oriented mindset

Strong communication abilities

Detail-oriented execution

Proficiency in MS Office Suite

Ability to use AutoCAD

Education

High School Diploma

Associate’s degree in a related major

Completion of certified technical school curriculum

Tools

Basic machining tools (lathe, mill, grinder)

Job description

Who We Are

At Lindt, we are a global fast‑growing consumer goods company, enchanting the world with premium chocolate. We are driven by our passion for excellence and go the extra mile ensuring that every Lindt experience is nothing short of exceptional. Our collective efforts are geared towards making a positive impact, not only in the world of premium chocolate but also in the lives of our employees, customers, and communities. Our company embraces a culture defined by the core values of Excellence, Innovation, Entrepreneurship, Responsibility, and Collaboration, fostering a dynamic and collaborative environment where these principles drive our success.

Position Purpose

The Maintenance Apprentice will undergo comprehensive training to develop practical skills throughout a 6,000‑hour DOL‑certified Apprenticeship program. This structured program includes computerized learning, hands‑on training, and instructor‑led coursework in core maintenance disciplines, with a strong focus on manual machining. Apprentices will receive specialized instruction in operating lathes, mills, grinders, and other machining equipment, gaining proficiency in precision measurement, tooling selection, and material properties essential for fabrication and repair work. Apprentices must demonstrate competency across multiple disciplines. Based on business needs and individual merit, further training in electro‑mechanical technology or controls specialization may be pursued, complementing their expertise in machining and mechanical systems.

Essential Job Functions & Responsibilities

• Assist experienced production mechanics with troubleshooting and repairs.
• Perform preventative maintenance tasks as skills and training progress.
• Rebuild and repair mechanical assemblies offline for re‑installation into production equipment.
• Document all maintenance activities in the CMMS system for tracking and analysis.
• Complete self‑directed computerized training, demonstrating consistent progress until completion.
• Participate in high‑profile equipment rebuilds and project work for advanced learning opportunities.

Training Topics (Not Comprehensive)

• Equipment and System Troubleshooting & Repair
• Preventative Maintenance Procedures
• Manual Machining (Lathe, Mill, Grinding, Drilling)
• Machine Shop Equipment and Metal Fabrication
• Pneumatic and Hydraulic Systems
• Welding and Rigging Techniques

Experience

Qualifications & Requirements:

Skills & Knowledge

• Demonstrated commitment to teamwork, with strong interpersonal skills.
• Exposure to or interest in manual machining, including familiarity with basic machining tools such as lathes, mills, and grinders.
• Growth‑oriented mindset with a willingness to learn new trade skills and advanced techniques.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to execute detailed assignments and support mechanical systems effectively.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook). Ability to use AutoCAD is a plus.

Education

• High Diploma
• Associate’s degree in a related major or equivalent on the job experience preferred.
• Completion of certified technical school curriculum in a technical discipline preferred.

Other Requirements

• Shift flexibility to support business needs.

Total Rewards

Compensation Range: $25 - $26 per hour based on experience.

To learn more about our benefits visit https://jobs.lindtusa.com/total-rewards.

Lindt USA’s salary range reflects market rates based on our size, revenue, and location. Starting pay is determined using a wide range of factors including, but not limited to, job‑related skills, knowledge, and experience as well as market conditions. A bonus and/or long‑term incentive may be included as part of this compensation package.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Lindt and Sprüngli is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, age, veteran status, or any other classification protected by state, local or federal law. Applicants for this position must successfully pass a background screening and may be required to pass drug screenings as well.