Maintenance Programmer

Harvest Food Group LLC; East Chicago (IN); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Collaborative work environment

Opportunity to work on next-generation facility

Contribution to automation and sustainability in food manufacturing

Job summary

A leading food manufacturing company in East Chicago, Indiana, is looking for a Maintenance Programmer to support production through programming and maintenance of PLCs and control systems. Candidates should have strong technical capabilities, be able to work with cross-functional teams, and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Responsibilities include troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and system installation. Knowledge of food processing equipment and prior manufacturing experience are essential. This role offers an opportunity to contribute to modern food manufacturing practices.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in PLC programming, setup, and troubleshooting is essential.
• Strong electrical knowledge and ability to read and interpret technical diagrams.
• Prior experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment is typically required.

Responsibilities

• Design, write, test, and implement PLC programs to meet production needs.
• Diagnose and repair complex control system issues to minimize downtime.
• Perform planned preventive maintenance and inspections on machinery.

Skills

PLC programming

Troubleshooting

Problem-solving

Communication

Electrical knowledge

Food processing equipment knowledge

Bilingual (English and Spanish)

Education

Technical diploma or relevant certification in industrial maintenance

Job description

Job Summary

The Maintenance Programmer will support the facility's production through the programming, troubleshooting, and maintenance of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human‑Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and other control systems. This position requires a strong technical aptitude to manage both software and hardware aspects of industrial automation while ensuring compliance with safety and food quality regulations, such as GMPs and HACCP.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• PLC/HMI Programming: Design, write, test, and implement PLC programs (e.g., Allen‑Bradley ControlLogix, CompactLogix) and HMI/SCADA software (e.g., Wonderware) that meet production needs.
• Troubleshooting & Repair: Diagnose and repair complex electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and control system issues to minimize production downtime.
• Preventive Maintenance: Perform planned preventive maintenance (PMs) and inspections on machinery to foresee potential problems and ensure equipment longevity.
• System Installation & Commissioning: Collaborate with engineers and production teams to install new equipment and control systems, including field commissioning and startup procedures.
• Documentation & Compliance: Maintain accurate documentation of all maintenance activities, software changes, and electrical schematics. Ensure all work aligns with OSHA, GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices), and HACCP food safety standards.
• Continuous Improvement: Monitor system efficiency, analyze key performance indicators (KPIs), and propose modifications or upgrades to existing automation to improve processes.
• Training & Support: Provide training and technical support to operations and other maintenance personnel on automated systems and new equipment operations.

Skills/Qualifications

• Technical Expertise: Proficiency in PLC programming, setup, and troubleshooting is essential. Strong electrical knowledge and the ability to read and interpret technical diagrams, schematics, and blueprints are also required.
• Industry Knowledge: A solid understanding of food processing equipment, such as HTST, CIP systems, conveyors, pumps, and packaging machinery, is highly beneficial.
• Problem‑Solving: Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills to identify root causes of malfunctions and implement effective corrective and preventive measures.
• Communication: Strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams (Production, Quality Assurance, Engineering, and Sanitation).
• Physical Demands: Ability to work in a food manufacturing environment (which may involve exposure to temperature extremes or dust) and perform physical tasks, including lifting up to 50‑75 pounds and standing for extended periods.
• Education: A technical diploma or relevant certification in industrial maintenance, automation, or electrical systems.
• Bilingual English and Spanish a plus
• Prior experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment is typically required, with experience in food or beverage manufacturing being a significant advantage.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work within timelines and under pressure based on production needs
• Availability to work scheduled hours, including weekends as required
• Ability to stand, bend, and climb stairs for extended periods (10–12 hours per day as needed)
• Ability to work in a refrigerated environment (32–36 °F)
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds multiple times throughout the day

WHY JOIN US?

• Play a key role in the launch of a next‑generation facility
• Work with a collaborative and innovative‑driven team
• Help deliver high‑quality, safe, and delicious food products to consumers
• Contribute to the future of food manufacturing through automation and sustainability