What are the responsibilities and job description for the Maintenance Apprentice position at LIPTON Teas and Infusions?
LIPTON Teas and Infusions is the biggest tea business in the world, with world class purpose driven brands such as Lipton, PG Tips and Pukka. As Lipton Teas and Infusions we are united in one purpose: growing a world of wellbeing through the regenerative power of plants.
In July 2022, CVC Capital Partners Fund VIII took over the full ownership of the LIPTON Teas and Infusions (formally ekaterra) business from its previous owner, Unilever. As a standalone entity with a dedicated single-category focus, Lipton T&I is even better positioned to lead the tea industry, delivering higher growth and value, and a greater impact on the wider world. With 11 production factories in four continents and tea growing estates in three countries, LIPTON Teas and Infusions is a profitable and growing business whose brands reach hundreds of millions of consumers. It has a presence in over 100 countries.
At LIPTON Teas and Infusions, we work alongside people who put consumer love at the heart of every decision. Diverse minds who celebrate new ideas, share our values and the commitment we have for the wellbeing of all. In return, we create an environment that gives our people space and freedom, where they can grow as leaders. A connected community where ideas can thrive. Where you explore new challenges. Learning all you need to master your field, and even more about yourself.
Be part of this amazing blend. Join our collective and help us grow a better world of wellbeing and a better you.
Job Title: Maintenance Apprentice
Job Status: Full-time
Work location: Suffolk, VA
Travel: Limited
Your Role
The Maintenance Apprentice plays a critical role in supporting the reliability and performance of tea packaging and palletizing equipment within the factory. This role combines hands-on mechanical and electrical troubleshooting with preventive maintenance and continuous improvement activities. Working closely with the production team, the apprentice also assists in equipment operations, changeovers, and general line support. Success in this role requires technical aptitude, strong communication skills, and a proactive, team-oriented mindset.
Your Key Responsibilities:
- Maintain and troubleshoot primary and secondary tea packaging equipment.
- Perform preventive and predictive maintenance tasks to ensure equipment uptime.
- Support equipment changeovers, including documentation and setup.
- Conduct breakdown repairs and analyze root causes of failures.
- Perform basic electrical and PLC troubleshooting (e.g., sensors and plug components).
- Replace mechanical components with precision tolerances.
- Manage spare parts, tools, and maintain equipment cleanliness using 5S principles.
- Complete maintenance tasks and parts tracking within the plant's CMMS system.
- Engage in plant safety programs, including risk assessments and lockout/tagout compliance.
- Participate in continuous improvement and quality assurance activities, including training and peer coaching.
Skills and Experience:
- 5 years of mechanical or electrical experience in the Food & Beverage industry.
- High School diploma or GED.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
- Physically able to bend, stoop, reach, and lift up to 50 lbs.
- Successful completion of all required equipment training and qualification modules.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a focus on problem-solving.
A Great Place to Grow
Here at LIPTON Teas and Infusions, we grow a world of wellbeing to generate value for all.
- Grow your LEADERSHIP – Thought leader or people leader, we want to help you to truly realise your potential. With a strong internal nurturing network and a focus on your development, you can grow your leadership with us. When you grow, the world around you will grow.
- Grow your VALUE - To foster your learning, we offer big, fulfilling roles within an empowering and entrepreneurial climate. You will have the space to take ownership and to make your mark – and you will be rewarded for the value that you create.
- Grow your IMPACT – We are unique in our industry - from our tea estates to our factories, labs and offices, we innovate sustainably and drive value for all. We grow a world of wellbeing, from seed to sip. You can truly leave your mark on our company and on the planet -through the meaningful work that you do.
Benefits & Perks
- Comprehensive insurance plans - health, dental disability and life Insurance
- 401(k) with 5% company matching an extra 4% after your first year
- Flexible Spending Account and Dependent Care Accounts
- Generous time off including paid vacation, company holidays, and floating holidays
- Parental Leave - Primary & Secondary
- Learning and development reimbursement
LIPTON Teas and Infusions is an organization committed to equity, inclusion and diversity to drive our business results and create a better future, every day, for our employees, global consumers, partners, and communities. We believe a diverse workforce allows us to match our growth ambitions and drive inclusion across the business. We are interested in every individual bringing their whole self to work and this includes you! Therefore if you require any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of your application so that we can support you through your recruitment journey.
