Overview

The Maintenance Technician is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, repairing, and improving equipment used in wood fiber processing and manufacturing operations. This role ensures the reliable operation of production equipment, conveyors, grinders, shredders, screens, dust collection systems, pneumatic systems, and related machinery while supporting safety, quality, and production objectives.

Job Responsibilities

• Perform preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance on wood fiber processing equipment;
• Troubleshoot and repair mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems;
• Maintain and repair conveyors, motors, gearboxes, pumps, bearings, chains, belts, shredders, grinders, hammer mills, screens, and dust collection systems;
• Diagnose equipment failures and implement timely repairs to minimize downtime;
• Conduct equipment inspections and identify potential maintenance issues before failures occur;
• Install, align, and commission new equipment and machinery as required;
• Troubleshoot electrical systems including motors, motor controls, VFDs, sensors, and PLC-controlled equipment;
• Assist with calibration and maintenance of instrumentation and process controls;
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals;
• Support automation and control system improvements;
• Complete assigned preventive maintenance tasks according to established schedules;
• Maintain accurate maintenance records, work orders, and equipment history;
• Recommend improvements to maintenance procedures and equipment reliability;
• Participate in root cause analysis investigations for recurring equipment failures;
• Follow all safety procedures including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), confined space, machine guarding, and hot work requirements;
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations related to wood dust, waste handling, and emissions control systems;
• Assist with equipment modifications and process improvement projects;
• Work collaboratively with operations and production teams;
• Perform other required tasks as assigned.

Job Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED required;
• Technical degree, industrial maintenance certification, or related vocational training preferred;
• Minimum 2 years of industrial maintenance experience preferred;
• Experience in wood products, wood fiber processing, lumber, paper, biomass, recycling, or manufacturing environments preferred;
• Experience maintaining conveyors, grinders, shredders, and material handling equipment is highly desirable;
• Strong mechanical troubleshooting and repair skills;
• Working knowledge of electrical systems up to 480V;
• Understanding of hydraulic and pneumatic systems;
• Ability to read blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings;
• Familiarity with PLC-controlled equipment and automated systems;
• Knowledge of preventive and predictive maintenance practices;
• Ability to use precision measuring instruments and maintenance tools;
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills;
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment;
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and climb throughout the workday;
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly and heavier loads with assistance;
• Ability to work in varying temperatures, dust, noise, and outdoor conditions;
• Must be able to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE);
• Industrial Maintenance Certification a plus;
• Electrical Troubleshooting Certification a plus;
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 a plus;
• Welding and fabrication experience preferred.