Reliability/Maintenance Technician

Job Description

Job Description:

The Reliability/Maintenance Technician in pet food manufacturing is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing specialized production equipment and systems to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operations. This role supports the consistent production of high-quality pet food by minimizing downtime and adhering to strict food safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform routine preventive maintenance on mixers, extruders, dryers, packaging lines, conveyors, and other pet food processing equipment.

• Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems specific to pet food manufacturing, including ingredient handling, blending, cooking, and packaging machinery.

• Utilize diagnostic tools, meters, and software to analyze system performance and pinpoint issues affecting product quality or production efficiency.

• Interpret technical manuals, schematics, wiring diagrams, and PLC programs to assist in troubleshooting complex problems on food-grade equipment.

• Conduct systematic testing and inspection of components such as motors, sensors, actuators, and control panels to verify functionality and compliance with food safety standards.

• Develop and implement effective repair strategies to restore equipment to optimal operating condition, ensuring minimal impact on production schedules.

• Collaborate with production, quality, and food safety teams to resolve recurring issues, support root cause analysis, and improve equipment reliability.

• Document troubleshooting steps, findings, and corrective actions taken for future reference, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement.

• Respond promptly to emergency breakdowns, applying critical thinking and problem-solving skills to minimize downtime and prevent product loss.

• Maintain accurate maintenance records, including work orders, parts used, service reports, and compliance documentation.

• Follow strict safety protocols and adhere to company policies, Q&FS (Quality and Food Safety) standards, and regulatory requirements (e.g., FDA, EF&DC).

• Assist in installing new equipment and upgrading existing machinery, ensuring all installations meet food safety and hygiene standards.

• Support continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to enhance equipment reliability, efficiency, and food safety.

• Collaborate with vendors and technical support for specialized troubleshooting, parts replacement, and equipment upgrades.

• Participate in Food Safety AAR (After Action Review) processes and contribute to ongoing food safety and quality improvement efforts.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification or associate degree in industrial maintenance, electrical, or mechanical engineering preferred.

• Proven experience as an industrial maintenance technician in food manufacturing, preferably pet food production.

• Strong knowledge of mechanical systems, electrical circuits, PLCs, and hydraulics in food-grade environments.

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals.

• Proficient in using hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic equipment.

• Familiarity with food safety standards (Q&FS, HACCP, GMP) and practices in pet food manufacturing.

• Good problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Flexibility to work shifts, including nights or weekends if required.

Desired Skills

• Experience with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), specifically SAP Plant Maintenance (SAP/PM).

• Basic welding and fabrication skills for food-grade equipment.

• Knowledge of automation, robotics, and ingredient handling systems.

• Strong communication skills for effective collaboration with cross-functional teams.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in pet food manufacturing plants, with exposure to noise, dust, and food ingredients.

• Requires adherence to hygiene and food safety protocols, including use of personal protective equipment.

• Physical stamina to lift heavy equipment and work in confined spaces.

What can you expect from Mars?

• Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.

• Join a purpose driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.

• A strong focus on learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.

• An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.

The base pay range for this position at commencement of employment is between the range listed below, however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including but not limited to job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position will include variable pay, medical and dental benefits, participation in 401k plan, and paid time off benefits. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an applicant receives an offer of employment.

The pay range shown is applicable to all US locations listed within the job posting:USD 35.71 - USD 49.10