MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN II

Lifeway Foods (NASDAQ: LWAY), which has been recognized as one of Forbes’ Best Small Companies, is America’s leading supplier of the probiotic beverage known as Kefir. In addition to its line of drinkable Kefir, the company also produces cheese, drinkable yogurt, and a ProBugs line of Kefir for kids. Lifeway’s tart and tangy fermented dairy products are sold across the United States, Mexico, Ireland, and the United Kingdom.  

Summary  

Facilities Technician II thrives on problem-solving and finding the right technical solution in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment. They are responsible for the service, repair, and preventative maintenance of boilers, wastewater, compressed air, HVAC, and general facility maintenance, including docks, doors, roofs, and more. They must participate in the Process Safety Management (PSM) program. Daily communication with the Maintenance Supervisor to improve plant reliability is also expected.  

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities  

• Operate, monitor, service, and repair equipment for steam, refrigeration, water, compressed air, and HVAC systems
• Make rounds and keep logs of daily operations and events for multiple engine rooms and refrigeration equipment
• Maintenance and troubleshooting of condensers, pumps, vessels/recirculatory, purges, evaporators / MAUs, heat exchangers, and control valves/isolation valves while using the Original Equipment Manufacturer's guidelines
• Maintenance and troubleshooting of steam boilers, wastewater treatment facility, water heaters, HVAC systems, and air compressors
• Participate in the PSM Program
• Promote Safe working habits
• Log time and material usage into CMMS for PMs and corrective maintenance
• Responsible for housekeeping of engine rooms, vessel areas, shops, and all other work areas
• Maintain all docks, doors, and roofs
• Responsible for upkeep of building, including windows, walls, grouting, painting, and more
• Work with contractors to help maintain or repair equipment when needed
• Perform duties according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and Sanitization Standard Operating Procedures (SSOP) that meet quality and safety standards pertaining to: Hazard Analysis & Critical Control Points (HACCP), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Wisconsin Department of Agriculture (WDA), and customer requirements
• Report to workstation on time; Wear proper work attire; Assist in setting up work area
• Conduct behavior in compliance with Lifeway Employee Policy
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Qualification and Education Requirements 

• Demonstrates mechanical abilities
• Background that includes, but is not limited to, boilers, air compressor equipment, understanding of plant utilities systems, equipment installation, and startups
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, manuals, and P&IDs
• Ability to align machinery within specified tolerances to satisfactory level
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers at all levels
• Ability to train co-workers 
• Experience working with vendors and contractors
• Self-motivated
• Knowledge of Manufacturing Software, Inventory Software, and Microsoft Office, including Excel and Outlook
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs.; Ability to be on your feet for entirety of 8-hour shift; Ability to climb ladders and maneuver through equipment; Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities 

Why Lifeway? 

• Explore exciting career growth opportunities in a thriving company
• Enjoy 9 paid holidays annually to rest and recharge
• Access comprehensive benefits, including Medical, Vision, Dental, Life, and Disability coverage—and more!
• Choose from flexible FSA and HSA options to meet your financial and healthcare needs
• Benefit from our Employee Assistance Program, offering support for new parents, legal and financial advice, mental health resources, and much more
• Plan for your future with our 401(k) Profit Sharing contribution match

Lifeway Foods, Inc. is a growing Chicago-based beverage manufacturer with over 25 years of experience. We are an industry leader in the production of high-quality Kefir. We are an equal opportunity employer and offer a competitive benefits package. Visit us at www.lifewaykefir.com.