JOB SUMMARY:

The Maintenance Technician is responsible for performing routine, preventive, and emergency maintenance on all plant equipment and systems in our 24/7 ethanol production facility. This position ensures equipment reliability, plant safety, and efficient operations, contributing to uninterrupted ethanol production.

Schedule: This is a full-time position scheduled Monday through Friday during daytime hours. The position includes participation in an on-call rotation, and schedule adjustments may occasionally be required to support maintenance needs or respond to operational emergencies.

JOB RESPONSIBILITES (include but are not limited to):

Equipment Maintenance & Repair

• Perform troubleshooting, diagnosis, and repair of mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and control systems.
• Repair or replace plant equipment or systems on a scheduled or emergency basis.
• Conduct preventative and predictive maintenance on equipment such as pumps, gearboxes, conveyors, agitators, boilers, dryers, and centrifuges.
• Perform preventative maintenance activities as required.
• Assist with diagnosing and trouble-shooting maintenance-related issues.
• Maintain accurate maintenance logs, work orders, and documentation in the CMMS.

Installation & Project Support

• Assist in the installation and commissioning of new equipment or process improvements.
• Assist with new installation and other projects, as requested by supervisor.
• Work with external contractors to plan and implement installation of new equipment or systems.
• Participate in plant shutdowns, start-ups, and turnaround projects.

Communication & Coordination

• Communicate directly with production and Grains department to coordinate maintenance and repair work.
• Collaborate with operations to support plant efficiency and improvements.

Emergency & On-Call Response

• Respond promptly to equipment failures and minimize downtime.
• Participate in on-call rotation and respond to emergency maintenance needs after hours if required.
• Be available for overtime work on a schedule or call-in basis as required.

Safety, Compliance & Cleanliness

• Understanding of Lockout/Tagout, Confined Space, and other safety procedures.

• Ensure compliance with OSHA safety standards and plant-specific safety policies.
• Participate in safety, health, and environmental programs.
• Know and understand county, state, and federal regulations relating to maintenance and plant equipment, and work in a manner to ensure that these regulations are met at all times.
• Work in a safe manner at all times.
• Participate in programs and procedures required to ensure plant cleanliness.

Miscellaneous Duties

• Snow removal, bin cleaning and other duties as assigned.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS and ABILITIES:

Technical Skills

• Mechanical Repair – Fixing motors, pmps, converyors, and other rotating equipment.
• Hydraulic& Pneumatic Systems – Troubleshooting cylinders, valves, etc.

Soft Skills

• Problem Solving – Diagnosing and fixing issues efficiently
• Attention to Detail – Precise work in documentation and repairs
• Time Management – Prioritizing tasks during shutdowns and upsets
• Teamwork & Communication – Coordinating with production, supervisors, and contractors
• Adaptability – Shifting between urgent repairs, long-term projects, and new systems
• Accountability – Taking ownership of work and following procedures

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 2–5 years of industrial maintenance experience (ethanol, food processing, chemical, or related industries preferred).
• Working knowledge of mechanical systems and rotating equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, manuals, and P&IDs.
• Skilled with hand tools, power tools, and welding equipment (is a plus).
• Understanding of Lockout/Tagout, Confined Space, and other safety procedures.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Must be able to work at heights up to 150 feet.
• Tolerate exposure to dust, heat, noise, and potentially hazardous materials with proper PPE.
• Ability to climb stairs and ladders and perform routine plant rounds as needed.
• Must be able to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection.

BENEFITS:

• Heartland Corn Product employees are eligible for benefits the first of the month after hire. HCP offers medical, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; an employer sponsored health reimbursement account; flexible spending accounts; 401k retirement plan with match and more!