Hatchery Maintenance Mechanic II - 1st Shift

Perdue Farms; Hurlock (MD); On-site; USD 34,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

Perdue Foods is seeking a Hatchery Maintenance Mechanic II for the 1st shift in Hurlock, MD. You will keep incubation and processing systems running by repairing incubators, HVAC, and chick-processing equipment, while monitoring environmental conditions and troubleshooting issues to minimize downtime.

You will work a 5:00am to 3:30pm schedule, with a target wage of $24.50–$37.00 per hour and a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Strong working knowledge of mechanical and electrical processes.
• Plumbing and welding experience.
• Technical degree or licensing preferred.

Responsibilities

• Inspects and repairs hatchery equipment including incubators and HVAC systems.
• Monitors environmental conditions inside incubators and chick-holding areas.
• Ensures proper operation of processing equipment and minimizes downtime.
• Conducts independent troubleshooting and determines repair actions.
• Modifications require management approval.

Skills

Mechanical knowledge

Electrical knowledge

Welding experience

Plumbing experience

Education

2- or 4-year technical degree

Licensing in Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing, and/or Welding

Two years of industrial maintenance experience

Job description

Hatchery Maintenance Mechanic II - 1st Shift

Date: Sep 17, 2026

Location: Hurlock, MD, US, 21643

Job Function: Live Production

Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.

Summary

Keep essential systems running at their best in a role that supports the start of our production process. As a Hatchery Maintenance Mechanic II, you will maintain, troubleshoot, and repair a wide range of hatchery equipment and facility systems to ensure safe, efficient incubation and processing operations. You will play a key role in equipment reliability, preventative maintenance, and continuous improvement efforts that help the hatchery operate smoothly every day. This position is ideal for a skilled technician who enjoys hands on work, solving mechanical challenges, and contributing to a safe, high performing environment.

Compensation

This position has a target wage of $24.50 - $37.00 per hour, basedshift,experienceand qualifications with annual bonusavailable(variable dependingon performance).Overtime may be available. In addition to hourly wages, Perdue offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/Rx,401(k)with employer match after 1year, criticalillness, accident insurance, dental,vision, life insurance, optional group life insurance, short-term and long-term disability protection, flexible spending accounts and paid time off.

Schedule: Monday through Friday, 5:00am - 3:30pm

• Inspects and repairs 48 setter incubators and 24 hatcher incubators, ensuring performance within OEM specifications.
• Monitors and records environmental conditions inside incubators, as well as all chick-holding areas, and reacts promptly when parameters are outside specified ranges.
• Inspects and repairs all facility HVAC equipment ensuring optimum performance.
• Precise air temperatures, pressures, and humidity levels are necessary to the incubation and hatching of broiler chicks, thus effective HVAC maintenance is critical.
• Inspects and repairs a variety of chick processing equipment systems, which includes, but is not limited to shell separators, tray washers, chick counters and conveyors.
• Ensures the proper operation of these systems to keep downtime to a minimum.
• Starts processing equipment daily, ensuring all systems are operating properly.
• Conducts independent troubleshooting and determines courses of action for equipment repair.
• Management approval is required for all equipment modification and/or replacement.

Minimum Education and Experience

• Must have a strong working knowledge of mechanical and electrical processes.
• Plumbing and welding experience.

Preferred Education and Experience

• 2- or 4-year technical degree.
• Licensing in Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing, and/or Welding.
• Two years of prior or related experience in industrial maintenance.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors

• Moving in an upright position and working on wet, dry, and often slippery concrete floors for up to 4 hours in a single interval.
• Must be able to lift overhead and control 35 lbs. to a height of approximately 84 inches.
• Exposure to temperatures from 65 to 101.25 with both ambient and 100% humidity.
• Extended exposure to temperatures from 99 to 101 with 82% humidity for periods up to 2 hours in a single interval.
• Exposure to noise ranges of <50db to >110db and light intensity range of <50 to 75-100 foot candles.
• Squatting, lifting and carrying weights of up to 35 lbs. while walking distances of 10 - 20 feet.
• Exposure to chlorinated water <50ppm, caustic detergents, lubricating oils, poultry vaccines, and other chemicals as listed in hatchery MSDS.
• Must wear and/or use personal protective equipment/devices in accordance with SOPs and company directives.

Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.