Food Plant Maintenance Technician — Automation & Ammonia Systems

Our Baltimore operation is growing and investing in new equipment, and we’re seeking a hands-on maintenance professional to keep our food-processing machinery running safely and efficiently. In this role, you’ll apply sharp troubleshooting skills and practical know‑how to reduce downtime, elevate performance, and support a high‑volume, quality‑driven environment.

A day in the life

You start your shift by walking the floor and visually checking production lines for wear, breakage, or leaks. You listen for unusual sounds that hint at developing issues, coordinate with technicians and engineers to isolate root causes, and map out a plan—whether that’s a quick adjustment, a part replacement, a control tweak, or a scheduled PM. When a line stops, you dive in: dismantle components, clean and lubricate shafts, bearings, and gears, install repaired parts, verify electrical connections, and bring the system back online—all while following safety rules to the letter.

What you’ll handle

• Visually inspect machinery and equipment to identify defects (breakage, excessive wear) and take corrective action.
• Repair production and processing equipment to restore optimal operation and minimize downtime.
• Tackle controls work with confidence; diagnose and repair modern automated systems.
• Analyze complex issues and implement lasting fixes while adhering to all safety guidelines and regulations.
• Use your ears—detect malfunctions by listening for unusual machine or equipment sounds.
• Collaborate daily with fellow maintenance technicians and engineering teams to solve problems.
• Dismantle defective machines/equipment; install new or refurbished components.
• Clean and lubricate shafts, bearings, gears, and other moving parts.
• Maintain pneumatic, hydraulic, and ammonia refrigeration systems.
• Install and repair electrical apparatus: transformers, breakers, switches, receptacles, wiring, and electronic machine components.
• Repair, replace, and maintain the physical structure of equipment.
• Operate cutting torches and welding equipment to cut or join metal parts.
• Execute preventive maintenance to keep equipment reliable and compliant.
• Interpret blueprints, schematics, and manuals to plan and execute work.
• Work independently with strong self‑motivation and follow‑through.
• Operate and support Material Handling Equipment daily.

Work setting & physical demands

• Fast‑paced production environment in and around industrial machinery.
• Refrigerated and cold storage areas maintained at approximately 32°F (with some zones below that); ability to tolerate cold conditions for extended periods.
• Capability to bend, twist, squat throughout the shift; frequent pushing, pulling, kneeling, bending, and reaching with both arms.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds without reasonable assistance.

Compensation & benefits

• Full‑time hourly roles: $20.00–$40.00 per hour, based on experience
• Weekly payroll via direct deposit
• Product discounts
• Sliced lunch meats provided daily
• MTA discounts
• Paid Time Off
• Holiday pay
• Laundered uniforms
• Comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, RX, Disability, and 401(k)

Who we are

Since 1939, Dietz & Watson has crafted premium deli meats and artisan cheeses with an unwavering commitment to “quality above all.” From using the freshest lean beef, ham, pork, turkey breast, and chicken breast to seasoning with fine, all‑natural spices sourced worldwide, our standards have consistently exceeded government guidelines. Now led by the fourth generation, our mission blends perfection with originality—producing wholesome, nutritious, and truly premium products made with care.

Military experience welcomed.