Hot Side Restaurant Maintenance Technician Level 3

Job Overview
We are seeking an advanced technician to join our McDonald's Franchise team in the Chicago area, with a strong focus on high-volume operations.

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Level 3 (Advanced) Hot Side Restaurant Maintenance Technician to join our team. This advanced role focuses on the troubleshooting, repair, preventive maintenance, and installation of high-end commercial cooking equipment and plumbing needs in fast-paced QSR environments. You will be a key player in ensuring reliable operation of critical kitchen systems, with expertise in specific brands commonly found in leading QSR chains.

This is a field-based position requiring a self-starter mentality, strong problem-solving skills, and a commitment to safety and quality workmanship. Technicians must already know how to handle diagnostics and repairs on fryers, grills, ovens, and related systems while maintaining high standards of customer service and documentation. Certifications from these manufacturers are a major advantage.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform advanced diagnostics, repairs, preventive maintenance, and installations on hot-side commercial kitchen equipment, including but not limited to:
• Taylor Grills (e.g., platen/grill systems, controls, and related components).
• Henny Penny fryers (pressure and open fryers, error codes, vats, filtration systems).
• Antunes equipment (toasters, steamers, and related units).
• Prince Castle equipment (steamers, bun toasters, holding equipment).
• Plumbing: Handle plumbing-related tasks specific to running a restaurant, including copper soldering, PVC piping, and clearing clogs/lines using routers or hydro-jetters, Installing toilets and urinals.
• Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, gas, and control systems; read schematics and use diagnostic tools effectively.
• Maintain accurate service records, parts usage, and documentation via CMMS software, time-tracking apps, email, and other mobile applications.
• Respond promptly to service calls, participate in on-call rotation, and work flexible schedules including weekends as determined by operational needs.
• Adhere to all safety protocols (Safety First mentality), food safety standards, and manufacturer guidelines.
• Collaborate with team members, provide training/mentorship to junior technicians as needed, and represent the company professionally on-site.
• Perform other related maintenance tasks assigned to support overall restaurant operations.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Proven Experience: 7+ years of hands-on experience as a commercial kitchen equipment technician, with strong focus on hot-side equipment (fryers, grills, toasters, steamers). Direct experience with Taylor, Henny Penny, Antunes, and Prince Castle equipment is highly preferred. Equivalent military or technical training considered.
• Plumbing Skills: Demonstrated experience with copper soldering, PVC piping, drain line maintenance, and using rodding/hydro-jetting tools to clear clogs.
• Technical Skills: Strong mechanical, electrical, gas, and troubleshooting abilities. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Transportation & Licensing:
• Must have a reliable personal vehicle for transportation to and from the maintenance office.

o Must carry personal liability insurance coverage for your vehicle that meets or exceeds the state's minimums

• Valid, current Illinois or Indiana driver's license.
• Clean driving record.
• Company will provide a work van and commercial insurance for job-related use.
• Availability: Ability to work weekends, fit into an on-call rotation, and respond to urgent service needs.
• Soft Skills: Self-starter with excellent problem-solving, communication, and customer service skills. Proficient with mobile apps (CMMS, time clocking, email). Strong record-keeping habits.
• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Excellent communication skills in English – both oral and written.
• Ability to comply with both JDD Investment's, McDonald's and client-directed Policies & Procedures.
• Ability to complete work orders through company’s “Upkeep” system.
• Physical Work Abilities and
• Requirements
• This position requires frequent walking, climbing, bending, kneeling, lifting, stooping, and working/extending overhead, including:
• Lifting a minimum of 80 lbs.
• Using ladders up to 30 ft and working from heights.
• Climbing a ladder with a 300-lb weight limit while carrying a tool bag weighing approximately 20 lbs
• Ability to work in varying environments (hot kitchens, tight spaces), and maintain a professional appearance and demeanor. Safety-focused mindset required.
• Additional Information:
• Education through Archways to Opportunity including opportunities to earn a High School degree, college tuition assistance, and English classes as a second language
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid time off
• 401k Plan
• Cell phone
• Dental insurance
• Certifications (preferred): CFESA, manufacturer-specific training (Taylor, Henny Penny, etc.), EPA (if applicable), or equivalent.This role mirrors advanced technician positions at leading QSR service providers, emphasizing expertise in high-demand hot-side equipment while adding specialized plumbing capabilities for comprehensive maintenance.

If you are a skilled, reliable technician ready to take on advanced challenges in the QSR industry, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume highlighting relevant equipment experience.

We are an equal opportunity employer.

Pay: $38.00 - $48.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Cell phone reimbursement
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Fuel card
• Health insurance
• On-the-job training
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Application Question(s):

• Are you experienced with general plumbing, rooter, hydrojetter, water-heaters?
• Do you have a valid Driver's License in Illinois or Indiana?

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

• Restaurant Maintenance : 7 years (Required)

License/Certification:

• certification from a manufacturer to repair? (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Chicago, IL 60638 (Required)

Work Location: In person