Brewery Maintenance Technician (Manufacturing)

SUMMARY
This position conducts machine setup, troubleshooting, repairs, and preventative maintenance on our brewing equipment and high-speed bottling, kegging, and canning equipment. The role is responsible for keeping all of the production and packaging equipment running at full potential with minimal downtime. Ensuring the brewery operates efficiently, safely, and in compliance with all regulations is crucial. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in industrial maintenance, flexibility, and a sense of urgency with an eye towards safety. This position offers opportunities for job variety, continuous improvement, and growth within a safe and productive environment.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The following reflects managements definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.

Equipment Maintenance and Repair:
Perform regular maintenance and repairs on brewing, packaging, and facility equipment, including pumps, motors, boilers, refrigeration systems, and HVAC. Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic issues to minimize downtime. Conduct preventive maintenance to avoid unexpected breakdowns. Assist with process automation and improvements in brewing, packaging, and facility processes. Monitor, schedule and complete work orders.
Safety and Compliance:
Ensure all work complies with OSHA and company safety standards. Follow safety protocols when working with hazardous materials and equipment. Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities and repairs. Participate in safety training and contribute to a safe working environment.
Advanced Troubleshooting and Technical Support:
Perform advanced troubleshooting on electrical, programming, and mechanical systems, including VFDs, SCADA systems, and process analyzers. Diagnose failures and perform emergency repairs to minimize production downtime. Install, set up, and troubleshoot communication modules and control components.
Facility Maintenance:
Assist with general facility maintenance, including plumbing, carpentry, HVAC, and minor construction projects. Manage and monitor utility systems such as water, air, steam, and glycol systems. Support facility projects, including expansions, renovations, and new equipment installations.
Documentation and Inventory Management:
Maintain an organized inventory of spare parts and tools. Document all maintenance activities, including work orders, parts used, and time spent on tasks. Assist with parts procurement and keep maintenance areas clean and organized.
Continuous Improvement:
Identify and implement opportunities for equipment upgrades and process improvements. Collaborate with the brewery management team on equipment modifications and new installations. Develop and refine Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and maintenance programs.
QUALIFICATIONS
Ability to read and interpret plans, drawings, prints, schematics, operating manuals, and repair manuals. Electrical, plumbing, and pipe fitting skills. High attention to detail, accuracy, and precision. Highly motivated and able to work independently with minimal training. Mechanical, assembly, and machining skills. Ability to utilize lockout/tagout procedures for machinery. Strong knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic systems. Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving, and logic skills. Experience with PLC automation, instrumentation, and commercial brewing/packaging processes is a plus. Knowledge of local and national building codes, NEC (National Electrical Code), and 5S practices is a plus. Experience in motor and pump rebuilding, pneumatics, hydraulics, power transmission, air compressor maintenance, HVAC, refrigeration, and boiler maintenance is a plus. Experience with sanitary welding, metal fabrication (MIG, TIG), and machining is a plus.
REQUIREMENTS
High school diploma and/or equivalent and 3-5 years of experience in industrial maintenance, preferably in the brewing, beverage, dairy, or food processing industries. Industrial electrical experience and general electrical wiring skills. Knowledge of GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) and the ability to troubleshoot in a fast-paced environment. Mechanical, assembly, and machining skills. Basic understanding of electronics, instrumentation, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) in industrial applications. Flexible schedule with the ability to work overtime and rotating shifts, including weekends.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORKING CONDITIONS
In the role of facilities and building maintenance, employees encounter specific physical demands and working conditions, including:
Manual labor: Maintenance tasks often involve physical labor such as lifting up to 75 lbs., carrying, pushing, and pulling equipment or supplies. Employees may be required to perform tasks such as moving furniture, lifting heavy machinery parts, or carrying tools and materials.
Standing and walking: Maintenance personnel spend a significant amount of time on their feet, inspecting facilities, performing repairs, and addressing maintenance issues. This requires endurance and the ability to work comfortably while standing or walking for extended periods.
Bending and reaching: Maintenance tasks may involve bending, stooping, and reaching to access equipment, fixtures, or areas that require repair or maintenance. Employees must have flexibility and agility to maneuver in tight spaces and awkward positions.
Use of hand and power tools: Maintenance personnel use a variety of hand tools and power equipment to perform repairs and maintenance tasks. This includes tools such as wrenches, screwdrivers, drills, saws, and other specialized equipment, requiring proficiency in tool operation and safety protocols.
Exposure to hazardous materials: Facilities maintenance may involve handling hazardous materials such as cleaning chemicals, paints, solvents, or asbestos-containing materials. Employees must follow safety protocols and use personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize exposure and ensure safety.
Working at heights: Some maintenance tasks require employees to work at heights, such as repairing roofs, replacing light fixtures, or cleaning windows. This may involve using ladders, scaffolding, or aerial lifts, requiring adherence to safety guidelines and fall protection measures.
Exposure to extreme temperatures: Maintenance personnel may work in indoor and outdoor environments exposed to extreme temperatures, including heat, cold, or humidity. Proper attire and precautions are necessary to ensure comfort and safety in varying weather conditions.
Shift work: Facilities maintenance may require flexibility in working hours to accommodate maintenance needs, emergencies, or scheduled repairs. This may include evening, weekend, or on-call shifts to ensure continuous operation of facilities.
Physical stamina: Maintenance work can be physically demanding, requiring employees to perform repetitive tasks, lift heavy objects, and work in challenging conditions. Physical fitness and stamina are essential to meet the demands of the job effectively.
Safety awareness: Facilities maintenance personnel must adhere to safety protocols and regulations to prevent accidents and injuries. This includes proper use of equipment, following safety procedures, and reporting any hazards or incidents promptly.
The facilities and building maintenance role involves a combination of physical labor, technical skills, and safety awareness. Employees must be able to perform manual tasks, use a variety of tools and equipment, work in diverse environments, and prioritize safety to ensure the effective operation and maintenance of facilities.