Dr. Praeger's Sensible Foods
Maintenance Mechanic
10 days ago
Elmwood Park
Job Description ** Maintenance Mechanic ** **Company History: ** *Dr. Praeger’s was founded in 1994 with the mission to bring delicious frozen food to everyone. It’s not every day that two heart surgeons get into the food business, but over 20 years ago that’s exactly what our dads did. Motivated by what they saw in their practice, our parents set out on a mission to encourage sensible eating. They knew ingredients had to be nutritious and simple, that everything had to be delicious, and that their products needed to be super simple to make. While the world has changed since our little family business first got started, our focus remains true to our dads’ vision and we work every day to make them proud. *To learn more visit: [** **]() **Position Summary ** The Maintenance Mechanic is responsible for performing maintenance and repair of production equipment, support systems, and facility infrastructure. This role serves as the intermediate level between Jr. Mechanic and Electro-Mechanic, requiring a solid foundation in mechanical troubleshooting with working knowledge of basic electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and preventive maintenance practices. The Regular Mechanic ensures safe, efficient, and reliable operation of plant equipment while supporting production needs and facility upkeep. **Responsibilities ** **Equipment Maintenance & Repair ** * Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on motors, conveyors, pumps, pneumatic systems, and other production machinery. * Assist with electrical systems, including replacing switches, sensors, and variable frequency drives (VFDs). * Troubleshoot mechanical issues by observing equipment in operation, listening for irregular sounds, and using basic diagnostic tools. * Dismantle, repair, and reassemble machinery using hand and power tools. * Support equipment changeovers, setups, and minor fabrications as needed. **Facility Support ** * Perform basic facility maintenance including plumbing, carpentry, HVAC filter changes, and general building upkeep. * Assist with inclement weather tasks (snow removal, salting, roof checks) and outdoor grounds work as required. * Maintain shop organization, return tools to proper locations, and ensure cleanliness of work areas. **Inventory & Documentation ** * Maintain inventory of spare parts, tools, and supplies; report shortages or re-order needs. * Accurately document work completed in the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) or work order system. * Provide feedback to leadership on equipment conditions and potential improvements. **Safety & Compliance ** * Follow all safety procedures, Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), and company policies. * Support food safety and quality programs (GMPs, SSOPs, HACCP, CCP monitoring). * Ensure proper functioning of equipment to meet food safety and production quality standards. **Required Skills/Abilities ** * Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot equipment. * Basic electrical knowledge (low voltage, sensors, relays, VFDs). * Ability to read service manuals, schematics, and basic blueprints. * Competency with hand tools, power tools, and measuring devices. * Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail. * Ability to work independently and as part of a team. **Education and Experience ** * High school diploma or equivalent required. * 2–4 years of experience in maintenance, manufacturing, or related field. * Knowledge of packaging equipment or food processing equipment preferred. * CMMS experience a plus. **Physical Requirements ** * Must be able to bend, stretch, kneel, and squat to perform repairs and inspections. * Must be able to safely climb ladders and work in elevated areas. * Must be able to lift 50 pounds at a time. * Must be able to work in noisy, cold, hot, or wet environments. **Food Safety and Quality Responsibilities ** * Ensure proper functioning of equipment necessary for food safety and quality standards. * Demonstrate compliance with GMPs, SSOPs, and food safety policies. * Report and correct any condition that may affect food safety or quality. **Disclaimer: ¨NBSP; **Employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodation will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship. *Dr. Praeger's Sensible Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate based on actual or perceived race, creed, color, religion, alienage or national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability or handicap, sex, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, arrest record, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Our management team is dedicated to this policy with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities and general treatment during employment. ** Salary info: $25 - $30 / hr