Maintenance Mechanic

UNACEM North America; Tehachapi (CA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional cement plant in Tehachapi is seeking a skilled maintenance technician to ensure the reliability and safety of plant equipment. The role involves conducting inspections, performing mechanical repairs and preventive maintenance on equipment such as conveyors and kilns. Candidates should have a high school diploma, preferred experience in industrial maintenance, and journeyman-level millwright skills. The position requires physical ability and adherence to safety standards, and joining the union post-probation is necessary.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous experience in industrial maintenance preferred.
• Must possess journeyman-level millwright knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Perform mechanical maintenance, repair, installation, and troubleshooting of plant equipment.
• Conduct routine inspections and identify equipment issues.
• Execute preventive and corrective maintenance activities.

Skills

Mechanical maintenance

Troubleshooting

Safety standards knowledge

Preventive maintenance

Experience with industrial equipment

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Welding equipment

Diagnostic tools

Job description

Role Summary

Performs mechanical maintenance activities across the UNACEM North America Tehachapi Cement plant to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient operation of plant equipment and systems. Supports plant performance by maintaining, repairing, troubleshooting, and installing mechanical components across all production areas, ensuring alignment with safety standards, maintenance programs, and operational requirements.

Purpose

Ensure the reliability, safety, and continuous operation of plant equipment through disciplined execution of maintenance activities, field inspections, and adherence to maintenance and safety procedures, supporting overall plant performance and operational continuity.

Key Accountabilities

• Perform mechanical maintenance, repair, installation, and troubleshooting of plant equipment.
• Conduct routine inspections and identify equipment issues, reporting findings to the Maintenance Supervisor.
• Execute preventive and corrective maintenance activities in alignment with maintenance programs.
• Maintain and repair equipment including conveyors, mills, kilns, crushers, and associated systems.
• Ensure proper equipment alignment, adjustments, lubrication, and operational readiness.
• Perform housekeeping duties to maintain a clean and safe work environment.
• Support material handling and equipment operation as required.
• Utilize tools and diagnostic equipment such as vibration analysis tools, welding equipment, and precision measurement instruments.
• Read and interpret schematics, drawings, and technical documentation.
• Follow all MSHA, company safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Identify and address safety hazards, escalating issues when necessary.
• Participate in meetings, training, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Knowledge

• Strong understanding of cement manufacturing processes and plant operations.
• Knowledge of mechanical systems including conveyors, mills, kilns, pumps, compressors, and hydraulics.
• Understanding of preventive and corrective maintenance practices.
• Familiarity with maintenance tools, measurement devices, and welding equipment.
• Knowledge of safety regulations including MSHA and general industrial safety standards.

Problem Solving

• Diagnoses mechanical equipment issues and implements corrective actions.
• Identifies potential equipment failures through inspections and analysis.
• Resolves maintenance issues in a timely manner to minimize downtime.
• Applies practical judgment in dynamic plant environments.

Interactions and Influence

• Daily interaction with Maintenance Supervisor and maintenance team.
• Collaborates with operations personnel to support plant performance.
• Communicates equipment issues, safety concerns, and maintenance updates clearly.
• Supports coordination with other plant departments as needed.

Impact

Direct: Supports equipment reliability, safe operations, and maintenance execution across the plant.

Indirect: Contributes to overall plant efficiency, production continuity, and safety performance.

Experience And Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous experience in industrial maintenance or heavy manufacturing preferred.
• Experience in cement or similar heavy industry preferred.
• Must possess journeyman-level millwright knowledge and skills to successfully pass the technical assessment.
• Must be able to obtain required certifications.
• Must be willing to join the union after completion of probationary period.

Additional Requirements

• Candidates are required to provide their own tools necessary to perform the job.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting, climbing, and working in confined spaces.
• Ability to work in varying environmental conditions, including heat, dust, and noise.

Success Profile

• Demonstrates strong understanding of mechanical maintenance and plant operations.
• Works effectively in a fast-paced industrial environment with changing priorities.
• Takes ownership of assigned work and follows through to completion.
• Communicates clearly with supervisors and team members.
• Applies structured thinking to troubleshoot and resolve equipment issues.
• Supports safe work practices and follows all safety procedures.
• Works collaboratively and aligns with UNA Culture values.