Maintenance Mechanic

Chicago Meat Authority Inc; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Meat Purchase Program

Job summary

Chicago Meat Authority, Inc. is seeking a skilled Maintenance Mechanic in Chicago, IL to keep our processing and packaging lines running reliably.

You will perform setup, repair, and preventive maintenance on production equipment, conveyors, and PLC-driven systems, ensuring safety and quality standards. The ideal candidate has 2–5 years of manufacturing experience, proficiency with welding and fabrication, and strong problem-solving skills.

Qualifications

• Technical school degree or equivalent trade training in mechanical engineering, HVAC, refrigeration, or related discipline.

Responsibilities

• Perform setup, repair, and maintenance of production machinery, including packaging lines, conveyors, and processing equipment.
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Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Electrical systems

Pneumatic and hydraulic systems

Welding and fabrication

PLC basics

Safety compliance

Documentation skills

Education

Technical school degree or trade training

Tools

HVAC equipment knowledge

Job description

Chicago Meat Authority (CMA) is proud to have celebrated 36 years in the food industry. Located in Chicago's historic Stockyards, CMA is a forward thinking processor of value added beef, pork, and poultry items with a strong focus on selling the Healthcare, Hotel, and Institutional Markets (HRI), meat purveyors, and Multi-unit regional and national chains up to and including big box stores. In addition, CMA specializes in custom cuts for further processors including but not limited to grinding operations, deli manufacturers, and the prepared entrée market.

CMA is growing and seeking a skilled Maintenance Mechanic to join our team. This position plays a key role in ensuring the reliability and efficiency of our processing and packaging operations. The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, detail-oriented, and committed to maintaining a safe, productive work environment.

Why CMA?

At CMA, we don't just maintain equipment - we build careers. You'll work with a talented maintenance team dedicated to operational excellence and continuous improvement. This is your opportunity to join a stable, growing company that values craftsmanship, safety, and teamwork.

What You Get To Do:

• Perform setup, repair, and maintenance of production machinery, including packaging lines, conveyors, and processing equipment, ensuring optimal performance and minimal downtime.


• Conduct routine inspections and preventive maintenance to detect and address potential issues before they impact production or equipment reliability.


• Troubleshoot and repair mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and vacuum systems, resolving malfunctions quickly and effectively.


• Diagnose and troubleshoot Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) systems, electrical controls, and automation equipment to maintain smooth operations.


• Install, maintain, and repair HVAC, refrigeration, and plumbing systems to support facility operations and maintain environmental control.


• Perform welding and fabrication tasks (MIG, TIG, Stick) on stainless steel, carbon steel, and structural components to repair or fabricate machine parts.


• Install, weld, and repair galvanized, copper, and stainless-steel piping systems, including copper pipe brazing.


• Operate and maintain hand tools, power tools, and industrial equipment safely, adhering to all safety protocols and operational procedures.


• Support facility upkeep, including building repairs, utilities maintenance, and general improvements to ensure a safe and efficient work environment.


• Collaborate with production teams to minimize disruptions, support equipment changeovers, and improve operational efficiency.


• Maintain accurate maintenance logs, service records, and parts inventory to ensure compliance, traceability, and future reference.


• Follow all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), food safety regulations, and company procedures to maintain a compliant and secure workplace.

What We're Looking For:

• Technical school degree or equivalent trade training in mechanical engineering, HVAC, refrigeration, or related discipline.


• Minimum 2-3 years of manufacturing experience, preferably in the food industry.


• At least 5 years of hands on experience in vocational trades such as HVAC, electrical, electronics, or mechanical work.


• Strong knowledge of OSHA safety regulations, PSM/RMP compliance, and mechanical integrity principles.


• Ability to troubleshoot and repair industrial systems efficiently.


• Strong organizational, communication, and documentation skills.

What We Value:

• Dependability and integrity.


• Strong attention to detail


• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.


• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.


• Ability to work independently


• The ability to be capable of upholding all safety and work rules, policies and procedures.

Compensation:

The salary range for this position is $26.00 - $36.00 per hour, based on experience.

• Meat Purchase Program

We Are Winning When:

We follow and are guided by our mission and we demonstrate our values every day:

"To be the preferred supplier of our customers, the preferred customer of our strategic suppliers, and a model employer in our industry."

Chicago Meat Authority, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

Equal Opportunity Employer

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.