What are the responsibilities and job description for the Junior Maintenance Mechanic position at Valley Farms Dairy LLC?
As employees of a farmer-owned cooperative, we come to work every day trying to honor the tireless effort and care these farming families put in every day, all day, 365 days a year. Our farm owners tend to think in generations, with some of our farms being run by the same families for over a century. We carry this approach into our business, knowing that each and every one of us makes a difference in allowing these generational traditions to continue, taking pride in knowing that we nourish our friends, neighbors, nation, and even the world with healthy and delicious dairy products. Our products include milk, flavored milk, yogurt, dip, sour cream, cottage cheese, and ice cream mix marketed under the Upstate Farms®, Bison®, Milk for Life®, and Intense Milk® brands.
Job Summary
This entry-level role is designed to support the fundamental maintenance functions within the plant while receiving on-the-job training to advance to a Tier 1 Maintenance Technician.
Key Responsibilities
- Equipment Maintenance & Repair
- Assist in troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, diagnosing problems, and performing repairs.
- Clean and lubricate shafts, bearings, gears, and other machinery parts.
- Repair and maintain the physical condition of the facility.
- Lockout/Tagout Procedures
- Perform proper lockout/tagout on all equipment.
- Hydraulic & Pneumatic Systems
- Assist in laying out, assembling, installing, and preparing pipe systems and related hydraulic/pneumatic equipment.
- Repair or replace gauges, valves, pressure regulators, and related components.
- Tool Operation
- Set up and operate tools such as lathe, grinder, drill, jigs, and fixtures.
- Safety & Compliance
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- Adhere to all company safety policies and procedures.
- Other duties
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- Perform other duties as required to meet needs
Qualifications:
Education
- High School Diploma or equivalent (not explicitly stated but typically required for entry-level roles).
Experience:
- No prior experience required; this is an entry-level role with on-the-job training provided.
Preferred Skills:
- Troubleshooting complex equipment and systems.
- Understanding of valves and electrical components.
- OSHA 10 certification.
- Advanced mechanical skills.
Technical Skills:
- Basic mechanical aptitude.
- Familiarity with hand tools; able to perform basic measurements.
- Basic knowledge of blueprints and schematics (desirable but not mandatory).
- Understanding of (or willingness to learn) electric meters.
- Able to perform fundamental mathematical operations (add, subtract, multiply, divide).
- Computer literacy sufficient to use maintenance technician software.
Soft Skills:
- Clear communication skills (verbal and written).
- Ability to follow directions, ask questions, and actively listen.
- Eagerness to learn, coachable attitude, and initiative-taking.
- Reliable attendance and adherence to scheduled work hours.
Competencies
- Safety Awareness: Follows all safety protocols, including proper lockout/tagout procedures.
- Teamwork: Works collaboratively with other maintenance technicians and plant personnel.
- Problem-Solving: Assists in identifying equipment issues and contributing to resolution.
- Adaptability: Willingness to learn new processes and tools; flexible with shifting priorities.
Working Conditions (Physical demands)
Able to lift at least 50 pounds
Must be willing and able to work all shifts, including weekends and holidays.
Must pass a pre-employment background check and physical/drug screening.
Pay: $25-$29/hr.*
*The hourly rate as indicated in the CBA. The posted pay rate reflects just one component of our total rewards package. Other components of the total rewards package may include participation in group health and/or dental insurance, retirement plan, paid time away from work, and paid holidays.
Upstate Niagara Cooperative, Inc. is committed to equal employment opportunity for all, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic.
Salary : $25 - $29
