Machine Technician Lead

About Tanbark

Established in 2021, Tanbark Molded Fiber Products is dedicated to delivering sustainable alternatives to plastic packaging. We specialize in producing Type 3 Molded Fiber, an environmentally friendly replacement for rigid single-use plastic products. Our mission is to provide access to planet-friendly, purpose-driven products by pushing the limits of molded fiber design.

Position Summary

The Machine Technician Lead serves as the primary production lead on the floor, oversees daily operations, trains staff, provides technical guidance, and ensures a smooth hand-off of information between shifts. They work closely with a small production team to ensure efficient production while maintaining compliance with quality, safety, and record-keeping standards. This role involves troubleshooting equipment issues alongside production teammates, performing routine preventative maintenance, and coordinating with Maintenance Technicians on complex repairs.

While not responsible for personnel management, the Machine Technician Lead fosters a positive, collaborative work environment by supporting and encouraging team members. Their hands-on leadership helps maximize equipment uptime, maintain product quality, and drive operational success. This role requires adaptability, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Work Hours

Regular/Future Work Schedule:

• 3 days per week (Wed, Thu, Sat)
• 13-Hour Shift (6:30am-7:30pm)

During the initial training period (approx. 3-6 weeks), flexibility in work hours and schedule is required. New team members will train with experienced staff and management until they are able to work independently.

Duties & Responsibilities

Leadership & Communication

• Lead production shifts, ensuring tasks, schedules, and performance goals are met.
• Serve as a liaison between operators and management, fostering communication and collaboration.
• Support process improvements, training, and shift hand-offs to drive efficiency.

Safety & Company Culture

• Promote a strong safety culture, ensuring compliance with protocols and maintaining a clean, organized work area.
• Uphold company values while identifying and reporting concerns to management or HR.

Production Operations

• Train employees in standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions (WIs), including safe equipment operation.
• Set up, operate, and adjust machinery to meet production specifications.
• Perform tooling changeovers, stock preparation, chemical dosing, and quality control checks.
• Handle end-of-line processes, including die-cutting, packing, and data logging.

Maintenance & Troubleshooting

• First point of contact for troubleshooting machine issues and employee questions.
• Maintain and clean production systems, ensuring optimal efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Diagnose mechanical issues, document repairs, and perform preventive maintenance.

Material Handling & Compliance

• Safely operate forklifts or pallet jacks to transport materials, stack pallets, and load/unload trucks.
• Follow all safety and regulatory compliance requirements related to material handling, production processes (SOPs, WIs, etc.), and workplace conditions.
• Ensure production documentation is completed accurately and submitted as required.

Core Values & Competencies

At Tanbark, we don’t just create sustainable products—we create a culture of innovation and responsibility. We support our mission through our A.C.T.S.—our core values that guide how we approach work, solve problems, and contribute to team and company goals.

• Adaptability – Embraces change, solves problems proactively, and continuously improves.
• Accountability – Takes ownership of responsibilities, follows through on commitments, and keeps stakeholders informed.
• Curiosity – Seeks learning opportunities, challenges existing processes, and explores innovative solutions.
• Collaboration – Works effectively with diverse teams, fosters inclusive decision-making, and contributes to shared goals.
• Trustworthiness – Builds strong relationships through honesty, dependability, and open communication.
• Transparency – Communicates decisions clearly, shares relevant information, and ensures alignment with company objectives.
• Safety – Prioritizes workplace safety, follows protocols, and actively contributes to a culture of well-being.
• Sustainability – Supports long-term growth through continuous learning and professional development.

Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities)

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum 5 years of factory or mechanical experience, including 2 years in a leadership role (preferred).
• Strong machine operation experience in a manufacturing setting, including HMIs.
• Ability to read drawings, perform basic math, and use hand-held measuring tools.
• Experience with mechanical systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, and instrumentation.
• Troubleshooting skills with the ability to operate and maintain mechanical systems.
• Forklift certification (or ability to obtain).
• Strong verbal/written communication and leadership skills.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The role requires frequent standing, walking, climbing ladders, and using hands to operate tools and machinery, with occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds. Vision abilities include close and distance focus. The work environment includes exposure to moving mechanical parts, dust, chemicals, and moderate noise levels. Proper PPE must be worn as required.

Tanbark Molded Fiber Products, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, drug free workplace, and complies with all applicable ADA regulations.

*****Recruiters, please DO NOT reach out to our team regarding this posting.*****

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $28.00 per hour

Expected hours: 39 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan

Schedule:

• 3x12
• Day shift

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Language:

• English (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Saco, ME 04072 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Saco, ME 04072: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $28