Hard Cook Maintenance Technician

Job Summary:

The Hard Cook Maintenance Technician is responsible for maintaining and supporting the safe and efficient operation of plant equipment at Hickman’s Family Farms. Technicians are expected to follow all GMPs and SOPs while performing preventive and corrective maintenance on equipment, including but not limited to the Flex Loader, cookers, chill tanks, transport belts, peelers, Fillmatic, brine tanks, Cablevey, press, and Multivac. All maintenance activities must be documented in the PM log and verified by a maintenance supervisor. In addition to standard responsibilities, technicians may be assigned additional tasks by management as needed to support plant operations.

Duties/Responsibilities:

Equipment Maintenance and Preventive Care

• Inspect, clean, service, and lubricate plant equipment to ensure proper operation.

• Replace worn or damaged parts (chains, belts, gaskets, motors, gearboxes, bearings).

• Verify machine functions including loaders, cookers, chill tanks, brine tanks, peelers, rinse spray tips, conveyors, press, and Cablevey systems.

• Replace air filters on processing equipment and electrical cabinets.

• Grease and oil lubrication points according to maintenance schedules and service manuals.

• Adjust chain and belt tension per manufacturer guidelines.

Facility and Systems Support

• Inspect and maintain facility infrastructure including lights, doors, and walls.

• Address leaks, holes, or damage promptly to maintain safe working conditions.

• Service supporting systems such as the Video Jet printer and cooker paddle chain.

Safety, Compliance, and Documentation

• Ensure all maintenance activities are logged in the PM system and verified by supervisors.

• Follow all GMPs, SOPs, Lockout/Tagout, and other safety programs.

• Report safety or equipment issues that may impact productivity or employee well-being.

• Maintain required certifications (e.g., PIT Operator, Lockout/Tagout).

• Communicate effectively with supervisors and plant management regarding issues, work progress, and completed tasks.

Additional Responsibilities

• Respond to maintenance requests from supervisors or plant management as needed.

• Perform special projects and additional maintenance checks as directed.

• Collaborate with team members to support continuous improvement in plant operations.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot and repair complex machinery.

• Knowledge of preventive maintenance practices and equipment service schedules.

• Ability to read and follow equipment manuals, technical diagrams, and SOPs.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to cleanliness, safety, and quality standards.

• Effective communication skills and ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

• Basic computer skills for PM logging and documentation.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot and repair complex machinery.

• Knowledge of preventive maintenance practices and equipment service schedules.

• Ability to read and follow equipment manuals, technical diagrams, and SOPs.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to cleanliness, safety, and quality standards.

• Effective communication skills and ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

• Basic computer skills for PM logging and documentation.

Education/Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

• Technical training in maintenance, mechanics, or a related field preferred.

• Minimum of 2 years of industrial maintenance experience, preferably in food processing or manufacturing.

• Experience with mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic systems preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift for extended periods.

• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.

• Work in hot, cold, wet, and noisy environments as required by plant conditions.

• Ability to climb ladders and work in elevated areas.

• Wear required PPE at all times (hearing protection, safety glasses, gloves, etc.).