Food Safety

Maintenance Mechanic – Manufacturing | Packaging Equipment & SAP-PM | Chicago, IL

Maintenance Mechanic – Manufacturing

πŸ“ Chicago, Illinois
πŸ’° $38.77 per hour
πŸ•’ Second or Third Shift
πŸ’Ό Full-Time | Union Position
🏭 Onsite – Manufacturing/Bakery Facility
πŸ‘₯ Three Openings
🚫 No Visa Sponsorship
🚚 No Relocation Assistance

Position Overview

A leading manufacturing organization is seeking three experienced Maintenance Mechanics to support a high-speed production and packaging facility in Chicago.

This hands-on position is responsible for maintaining the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of processing, packaging, and facility equipment. Working with limited supervision in a team-based environment, the Maintenance Mechanic will perform preventive maintenance, troubleshoot breakdowns, complete mechanical repairs, and help minimize production downtime.

Candidates must be available to work either second or third shift.

Key Responsibilities

Preventive Maintenance and CMMS

  • Complete scheduled preventive maintenance activities across production and facility equipment.

  • Document maintenance work, work orders, repairs, and equipment improvements using SAP Plant Maintenance.

  • Maintain accurate equipment and maintenance records within the plant’s computerized maintenance management system.

  • Use condition-monitoring equipment, including thermography cameras and ultrasound tools.

  • Identify potential equipment failures before they interrupt production.

Mechanical Troubleshooting and Repair

  • Diagnose, repair, and replace defective components on high-speed processing and packaging equipment.

  • Troubleshoot pumps, hydraulics, pneumatics, mechanical drives, and foundational electrical systems.

  • Perform basic machining, welding, fabrication, and mechanical adjustment work.

  • Complete root-cause analysis for recurring equipment failures.

  • Respond quickly to live breakdown calls and restore equipment performance safely.

  • Follow the correct testing and diagnostic sequence for complex processing equipment.

Technical Documentation

  • Read and interpret:

    • Mechanical and electrical schematics

    • Piping and instrumentation diagrams

    • Blueprints

    • Block diagrams

    • Equipment drawings and sketches

  • Use technical documentation to support equipment diagnostics, repairs, and improvements.

Collaboration and Continuous Improvement

  • Work alongside engineers, electricians, boiler room personnel, production teams, and technical specialists.

  • Communicate equipment status and outstanding maintenance requirements during shift handovers.

  • Help identify and resolve recurring operational problems.

  • Support continuous improvement initiatives involving TPM, Lean, and Six Sigma methodologies.

  • Share technical knowledge and contribute to the development of other team members.

Safety and Equipment Operation

  • Follow all Lockout/Tagout, Hot Work, and Confined Space procedures.

  • Work in accordance with NEC and NFPA requirements.

  • Safely operate forklifts, man lifts, ladders, scaffolding, and other material-handling equipment.

  • Comply with GMP, HACCP, QCMS, health-code, and food-safety requirements.

Minimum Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED.

  • At least two to four years of hands-on experience as a Maintenance Mechanic within a manufacturing environment, or successful completion of an approved apprenticeship or technical training program.

  • Strong mechanical knowledge covering:

    • Pumps

    • Hydraulics

    • Pneumatics

    • Mechanical drives

    • Basic machining

    • Welding

    • Hand and power tools

    • Foundational electrical systems

  • Ability to diagnose equipment problems and perform root-cause analysis.

  • Ability to work effectively with limited supervision.

  • Strong teamwork and communication skills.

  • Willingness and ability to work second or third shift.

  • No visa sponsorship is available.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Maintenance experience involving high-speed processing or packaging lines.

  • Experience within food and beverage, pharmaceutical, chemical, or another highly regulated manufacturing environment.

  • Familiarity with SAP-PM or another computerized maintenance management system.

  • Knowledge of TPM, Lean Manufacturing, or Six Sigma principles.

  • Familiarity with AutoCAD and technical file-management software.

  • Experience training, mentoring, or sharing technical knowledge with colleagues.

  • Knowledge of condition-based monitoring methods.

Physical and Environmental Requirements

  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds independently.

  • Ability to climb stairs and work from ladders, lifts, and scaffolding.

  • Ability to crawl over, under, or inside manufacturing equipment when completing maintenance work.

  • Ability to maintain balance while working around industrial machinery.

  • Comfortable working in environments with significantly varying temperatures.

First 30, 60 and 90 Days

First 30 Days

  • Complete plant safety onboarding.

  • Obtain required lift-equipment certifications.

  • Complete training on the facility’s autonomous and progressive maintenance standards.

First 60 Days

  • Develop familiarity with the plant’s equipment and machinery layouts.

  • Begin independently completing scheduled preventive maintenance activities within the CMMS.

First 90 Days

  • Respond confidently to live equipment breakdowns.

  • Independently diagnose and repair common mechanical failures.

  • Collaborate effectively across departments and shifts to minimize production downtime.

Compensation and Benefits

  • $38.77 per hour.

  • Equivalent to approximately $80,642 annually based on a standard 40-hour working week.

  • Healthcare coverage.

  • Retirement benefits.

  • Paid time off.

  • Benefits are provided in accordance with the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement and may be subject to eligibility requirements.

  • No bonus or commission.

  • No relocation assistance or interview travel reimbursement.

 

Industrial Electrician | PLC, VFD & 480V Maintenance | Chicago, IL

Industrial Electrician

πŸ“ Location: Chicago, IL (Onsite)
🏭 Industry: Manufacturing / Food Production
πŸ’Ό Employment Type: Full-Time (4 Openings)
⏰ Shift: Must be flexible to work 2nd or 3rd Shift
🚫 Visa Sponsorship: Not Available
🚚 Relocation Assistance: Not Available
πŸ’° Compensation: $43.69/hour ($85,000 – $90,668 annually) + Union Benefits

Overview

A leading food manufacturing organization is seeking Industrial Electricians to support operations at a high-volume bakery manufacturing facility in Chicago.

This role is responsible for installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing industrial electrical systems and production equipment to maximize uptime, reliability, and manufacturing efficiency. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting safety, quality, productivity, and continuous improvement initiatives while working in a fast-paced production environment.

Key Responsibilities

Electrical Maintenance

  • Install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair industrial electrical equipment.

  • Perform preventive and predictive maintenance on manufacturing equipment.

  • Diagnose and resolve electrical faults to minimize production downtime.

  • Maintain plant electrical infrastructure supporting continuous operations.

Equipment Troubleshooting

  • Troubleshoot production equipment, PLCs, VFDs, motors, and electrical systems.

  • Read and interpret electrical blueprints, wiring diagrams, and schematics.

  • Identify root causes of equipment failures and implement corrective actions.

  • Support equipment reliability and operational efficiency.

Production Support

  • Execute Autonomous Maintenance (AM) and Preventive Maintenance (PM) activities.

  • Respond quickly to production breakdowns.

  • Identify and report equipment losses and improvement opportunities.

  • Support continuous improvement initiatives across the facility.

Safety & Quality

  • Follow all electrical safety procedures, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO).

  • Adhere to Arc Flash and electrical safety standards.

  • Ensure compliance with quality and food manufacturing requirements.

  • Maintain a safe and organized work environment.

Required Qualifications

Education

  • High School Diploma or GED required.

  • Associate Degree or certification in Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, or Industrial Engineering preferred.

Experience

βœ” 7+ years of industrial electrical maintenance experience.

βœ” Experience maintaining electrical systems within a manufacturing environment.

βœ” Experience troubleshooting complex industrial production equipment.

Technical Requirements

Electrical Systems

  • 480V Industrial Electrical Systems

  • Electrical Troubleshooting

  • Industrial Motors & Controls

  • Electrical Preventive Maintenance

Automation

  • PLC Troubleshooting

  • Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)

  • Industrial Control Systems

Drawings & Documentation

  • Electrical Blueprints

  • Wiring Diagrams

  • Technical Schematics

Safety

  • Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)

  • Arc Flash Safety

  • Industrial Safety Procedures

Preferred Qualifications

  • PLC programming and logic modification experience.

  • Experience working within food manufacturing or bakery operations.

  • Knowledge of industrial automation systems.

  • Strong understanding of production reliability and preventive maintenance.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is an experienced industrial electrician who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and enjoys solving complex electrical and automation issues.

They will possess:

  • Strong industrial troubleshooting skills.

  • Hands-on experience with 480V systems, PLCs, and VFDs.

  • Excellent schematic reading and diagnostic abilities.

  • Strong commitment to safety and quality.

  • Ability to work collaboratively across production and maintenance teams.

  • Flexibility to support 2nd or 3rd shift operations.

Candidate Snapshot

Requirement

Details

Experience

7+ Years Industrial Electrical Maintenance

Electrical Systems

480V Industrial Power

Automation

PLC & VFD Troubleshooting

Drawings

Electrical Schematics & Blueprints

Safety

LOTO & Arc Flash

Industry

Manufacturing / Food Production

Shift

2nd or 3rd Shift

Location

Chicago, IL

Openings

4

Compensation

$43.69/hour ($85K–$90.7K annually)

Relocation

None

Screening Questions

  1. Do you have at least seven years of industrial electrical maintenance experience?

  2. Do you have hands-on experience working with 480V electrical systems?

  3. Have you professionally troubleshot and maintained PLC-controlled manufacturing equipment?

  4. Do you have experience working with Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)?

  5. Are you able to read and interpret electrical schematics and blueprints?

  6. Do you have experience working within a manufacturing or food production environment?

  7. Are you familiar with Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) and Arc Flash safety procedures?

  8. Have you performed preventive and predictive electrical maintenance on production equipment?

  9. Are you willing to work 2nd or 3rd shift on a full-time basis?

  10. When would you be available to start?

What Makes Someone Successful in This Role?

  • Strong troubleshooting skills that minimize production downtime.

  • Extensive experience with industrial electrical systems, PLCs, and VFDs.

  • Ability to quickly diagnose and resolve complex equipment failures.

  • Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

  • Strong communication and teamwork in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

  • Ability to proactively identify equipment issues before they impact production.

  • Dependability and flexibility to support critical production operations across multiple shifts.

 

Quality Assurance Regional Manager – Albert Lea, MN

Quality Assurance Regional Manager

πŸ“ Location: Albert Lea, Minnesota (Oversight of Multiple Manufacturing Sites)
πŸ’Ό Employment Type: Full-Time
πŸ’° Base Salary: $130,000 – $145,000
🚚 Relocation Assistance: Available for Ideal Candidates
✈️ Travel: Frequent Regional Travel Required
🚫 Visa Sponsorship: Not Available

Overview

A growing manufacturer in the food and nutrition sector is seeking a Quality Assurance Regional Manager to lead quality and food safety operations across multiple production facilities in Minnesota.

This leadership role is responsible for driving food safety, regulatory compliance, quality system effectiveness, continuous improvement, and team development while partnering closely with Operations, Production, R&D, and Commercial teams.

The successful candidate will be a strong people leader with deep expertise in FDA-regulated manufacturing environments and a proven ability to influence cross-functional teams.

Key Responsibilities

Quality & Food Safety Leadership

  • Lead quality assurance programs across multiple manufacturing sites.

  • Ensure compliance with FDA, HACCP, SQF, customer, and internal quality standards.

  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on food safety, quality, and operational excellence.

  • Oversee internal audit programs, CAPA processes, and compliance activities.

  • Lead root cause investigations and implement sustainable corrective actions.

Team Leadership

  • Develop, coach, and mentor regional quality teams.

  • Establish and communicate performance goals using SMART objectives.

  • Build a culture of accountability, food safety, and continuous improvement.

  • Deliver food safety and quality training programs.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Partner with Production, R&D, Commercial, and Operations teams to support product launches and process improvements.

  • Support commercialization activities, change control processes, and new product introductions.

  • Provide quality leadership during customer visits, regulatory inspections, and external audits.

Systems & Compliance

  • Ensure effective implementation of food safety and quality management systems.

  • Monitor and improve key metrics including:

    • First Pass Quality

    • Customer Complaints

    • CAPA Effectiveness

    • Inventory Health

    • Compliance Performance

    • Environmental & Sanitation Programs

  • Apply SPC and data-driven methodologies to improve process performance.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Science or a related field.

  • 10+ years of Quality Assurance experience within:

    • Food Manufacturing

    • Beverage Manufacturing

    • Dietary Supplements

    • Pharmaceutical or Medical Device Manufacturing

  • Management experience leading quality teams.

  • Strong knowledge of:

    • FDA Regulations

    • HACCP

    • SQF

    • Food Safety Programs

  • U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident.

Preferred Experience

  • Multi-site quality leadership experience.

  • Career progression across multiple functions including:

    • Production

    • R&D

    • Quality

  • PCQI certification.

  • Strong experience working with cross-functional teams.

  • Statistical Process Control (SPC) expertise.

  • Project management and continuous improvement experience.

Key Skills

βœ” Quality Assurance Leadership
βœ” FDA Compliance
βœ” HACCP & SQF Programs
βœ” Food Safety Systems
βœ” CAPA Management
βœ” Root Cause Analysis
βœ” Internal Auditing
βœ” SPC & Data Analysis
βœ” Team Development
βœ” Cross-Functional Leadership

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate has a strong quality leadership background within food or beverage manufacturing and has progressed through multiple operational disciplines such as Production, R&D, and Quality.

They will bring:

  • Multi-site quality management experience.

  • Strong food safety and regulatory expertise.

  • Proven success leading cross-functional initiatives.

  • Excellent leadership, coaching, and communication skills.

  • A track record of driving continuous improvement and quality culture transformation.

Screening Questions

  1. Do you have experience in the food and beverage manufacturing industry?

  2. Do you have hands-on experience with HACCP, SQF, and food safety systems?

  3. Are you a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident?

  4. Have you successfully partnered with cross-functional teams across operations, R&D, and quality?

  5. Have you held roles in multiple functions such as Production, R&D, and Quality during your career?

Candidate Snapshot

Requirement

Details

Experience

10+ Years

Seniority

Director Level

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Industry

Food & Beverage Manufacturing

Management Experience

Required

Travel

Frequent

Multi-Site Oversight

Preferred

Relocation

Available

Why Consider This Opportunity?

  • Lead quality operations across multiple manufacturing facilities.

  • High visibility role with direct impact on food safety and operational excellence.

  • Strong career growth opportunities within a growing organization.

  • Collaborative environment with significant cross-functional leadership exposure.

  • Opportunity to shape quality strategy and drive continuous improvement initiatives across multiple sites.

 

Maintenance Manager | Food & Beverage Manufacturing | Cherokee, OK | $131K–$150K

🏭 Maintenance Manager
πŸ—ΊοΈ
Cherokee, OK
πŸ“ Food & Beverages Industry | Onsite
πŸ’Ό Mid-Senior Level | Management
πŸ“… Full-time | 1 Position Available

✨ Compensation: $131,000 – $150,000 (confidential if posted externally)
🚚 Relocation: Limited assistance available
❌ Visa Sponsorship: Not available

🎯 Position Purpose

The Maintenance Manager will oversee the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of maintenance practices that keep plant equipment, grounds, and production processes running efficiently. This leader will play a vital role in driving operational excellence, ensuring compliance, and fostering a culture of safety while leading the engineering and maintenance teams.

πŸ› οΈ Key Responsibilities

  • Plant Operations & Layout: Develop and optimize plant processing lines to support operational changes or expansions.

  • Safety & Compliance: Ensure strict adherence to OSHA regulations and all company safety policies.

  • Team Leadership: Equip and guide engineering and maintenance teams with the tools, training, and knowledge needed to sustain facility operations.

  • Budget & Projects: Oversee Capital and Expense Budget projects and ensure timely execution.

  • Vendor & Contractor Management: Build strong working relationships with external contractors and vendors to ensure efficient project delivery.

  • Cross-Department Collaboration: Partner closely with other departments to resolve daily operational challenges and drive plant-wide success.

  • Continuous Improvement: Identify issues proactively and lead solutions in a structured, constructive manner.

βœ… Qualifications

  • Education: Associate’s degree in a relevant field (or equivalent experience).

  • Experience: 5+ years of management experience in manufacturing (meat industry experience preferred).

  • Licenses/Certifications: State Mechanical Contractor’s License.

  • Technical Expertise:

    • Strong mechanical aptitude with working knowledge of electrical & mechanical systems.

    • Basic understanding of refrigeration systems.

    • Familiarity with CAD and PLC equipment.

  • Skills:

    • Strong problem-solving and decision-making ability.

    • Excellent project and priority management.

    • Effective communicator and self-starter with leadership skills across all organizational levels.

    • Computer literacy (Excel, MS Word).

βš™οΈ Work Environment & Physical Demands

  • Ability to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods throughout the day.

  • Occasional lifting of up to 40 lbs with proper technique.

  • Work may require personal protective equipment (safety glasses, hearing protection, etc.).

  • Exposure to extreme temperatures (-40Β°F to 110Β°F) and high-noise environments.

πŸ“Œ Why This Role?

This is a fantastic opportunity for a hands-on Maintenance Manager ready to lead in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment. You’ll take ownership of critical operations, drive continuous improvements, and make a direct impact on plant safety, efficiency, and long-term sustainability.

 

3rd Shift Maintenance Mechanic | Food Production | Cincinnati, OH | $51K–$60K

Job Title: 3rd Shift Maintenance Mechanic

Location: Cincinnati, OH (On-site)
Industry: Food Production
Experience Level: Associate
Experience Required: 2–4 Years
Education: High School Diploma or equivalent
Employment Type: Full-Time
Compensation: $51,000–$60,000
Relocation Assistance: Not available
Visa Sponsorship: Not available
Shift: 3rd Shift, 12-hour schedule (3/4), 10:00 PM–10:00 AM

Position Overview

We are seeking a skilled and motivated 3rd Shift Maintenance Mechanic to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for performing preventative maintenance, equipment repairs, building maintenance, and supporting special projects to ensure efficient plant operations. This position requires strong mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic expertise in a fast-paced food production environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform installation, maintenance, and repairs on machinery, equipment, and physical structures.

  • Operate tools such as lathes, grinders, drill presses, and milling machines to repair or fabricate parts.

  • Troubleshoot and resolve issues with production and facility equipment to ensure optimal efficiency.

  • Identify operational problems and implement effective solutions to improve productivity.

  • Maintain a safe and clean maintenance work area.

  • Document and track maintenance tasks using maintenance systems.

  • Operate material handling equipment safely.

  • Support predictive and preventative maintenance programs and participate in plant initiatives.

  • Conduct safety observations and ensure compliance with SQF 2000 Systems standards.

  • Uphold company food safety and quality principles.

  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required:

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent.

  • 2–4 years of maintenance mechanic experience.

  • Proficiency in welding, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.

  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical blueprints, electrical schematics, and parts specifications.

  • Flexibility to work overtime, weekends, and holidays as needed.

  • Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and self-motivation.

Physical Requirements:

  • Regularly stand, walk, bend, squat, reach, and push/pull.

  • Frequently lift/move up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 100 pounds.

  • Work in varying temperatures, noisy environments, and confined spaces.

  • Ability to climb ladders, crawl, and perform tasks in awkward positions.

This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on Maintenance Mechanic to contribute to a dynamic and growing food production facility while enhancing their technical skills in a challenging environment.