Night Shift Maintenance Technician – Food Plant & PLC

JobSquad; Melrose Park (IL); On-site; USD 41,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

JobSquad is seeking a Maintenance Technician for the Melrose Park, IL area to perform setup, repair, and preventive maintenance on production machinery, ovens, packing lines, and conveyors. The role requires diagnosing mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic faults and maintaining a safe, clean plant environment.

The ideal candidate has strong welding, PLC, and electrical skills, with experience in an industrial bakery or food manufacturing setting. Flexibility for overtime is required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification or degree is a plus.
• 2-5 years of experience in an industrial bakery and/or food manufacturing environment preferred.
• Strong mechanical and troubleshooting skills with a service-oriented mindset.
• Experience with equipment maintenance, including conveyors, pneumatic systems, and hydraulics.
• Power Industrial Training Certification is a plus.
• Proficiency in electrical systems and PLC diagnostics is highly desirable.
• Welding experience (MIG, TIG, Stick) is a significant advantage.
• Must be a self-starter capable of working independently and completing projects without supervision.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 60 pounds frequently, and move as required.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including overtime, weekends, and holidays, as required by production schedule.
• Must be process-oriented, methodical, and committed to maintaining a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) candidates are preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform setup, repair, and maintenance of production machinery, including ovens, packing lines, and conveyors, ensuring optimal performance and minimal downtime.
• Conduct routine inspections and preventive maintenance to identify potential issues before they impact production.
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic systems to resolve equipment malfunctions quickly and effectively.
• Repair and maintain plumbing systems, hydraulic components, and cutting tools to support facility operations.
• Operate and maintain power tools and industrial equipment safely, adhering to all safety protocols.
• Perform welding tasks (MIG, TIG, Stick) to repair or fabricate machine components as needed.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) systems and electrical issues to maintain automation systems.
• Document maintenance activities, including repairs and inspections, ensuring accurate records for compliance and future reference.
• Collaborate with the production team to minimize disruptions and improve operational efficiency.
• Support changeovers by preparing and adjusting equipment to meet production requirements.
• Ensure compliance with GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), safety protocols, and food industry regulations.

Skills

Mechanical skills

Troubleshooting

Electrical systems

PLC diagnostics

Welding MIG/TIG

Bilingual English/Spanish

Team player

Self-starter

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical certification or degree

Tools

Power tools

Conveyors

Pneumatic systems

Hydraulics

Job description

JobSquad is seeking a Maintenance Technician for the Melrose Park, IL area to perform setup, repair, and preventive maintenance on production machinery, ovens, packing lines, and conveyors. The role requires diagnosing mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic faults and maintaining a safe, clean plant environment.

The ideal candidate has strong welding, PLC, and electrical skills, with experience in an industrial bakery or food manufacturing setting. Flexibility for overtime is required.