Maintenance Technician

Senior Maintenance Technician (Hydraulic Specialist / Right-Hand to Plant Manager)

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Maintenance Technician to serve as the trusted right-hand support to the Plant Manager in our manufacturing/processing facility. This critical hands-on role combines advanced technical expertise in hydraulic systems with broad plant maintenance responsibilities. The ideal candidate will lead hydraulic-related initiatives, including the creation and maintenance of hydraulic schematics, while supporting overall plant reliability, minimizing downtime, and driving continuous improvement in equipment performance. This position requires a proactive problem-solver who can work independently, collaborate closely with leadership, and ensure hydraulic and mechanical systems operate at peak efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as the primary point of contact and technical advisor to the Plant Manager on maintenance matters, especially hydraulic systems, providing real-time insights, recommendations, and support for operational decisions.
• Design, develop, update, and maintain accurate hydraulic schematics, diagrams, and technical documentation for all plant hydraulic equipment and systems.
• Perform diagnostics, troubleshooting, repair, and preventive maintenance on hydraulic systems, including pumps, valves, cylinders, hoses, motors, accumulators, and related components.
• Install, test, and commission new or upgraded hydraulic equipment and systems, ensuring proper integration with existing plant machinery.
• Conduct routine inspections and preventive maintenance on hydraulic and mechanical equipment to identify potential issues before they cause downtime.
• Collaborate with operations, engineering, and other maintenance team members to resolve complex equipment problems and implement reliability improvements.
• Maintain detailed records of maintenance activities, repairs, parts usage, and hydraulic system configurations for compliance, auditing, and future reference.
• Assist in training other maintenance staff on hydraulic principles, safe work practices, and schematic interpretation.
• Support plant-wide maintenance initiatives, including mechanical, pneumatic, and basic electrical
• Ensure all work complies with safety regulations, company policies, and industry standards (e.g., lockout/tagout, fluid handling).
• Participate in root cause analysis for equipment failures and contribute to corrective action plans.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Required: Proven hands-on experience (minimum 5+ years) in hydraulic system maintenance, repair, troubleshooting, and schematic development/interpretation in an industrial or manufacturing environment.
• Strong ability to read, interpret, create, and update hydraulic schematics, blueprints, and technical drawings.
• In-depth knowledge of hydraulic principles, fluid dynamics, components (pumps, valves, cylinders, etc.), and diagnostic tools.
• Experience supporting senior leadership or acting in a lead/technical advisor capacity in maintenance operations.
• High school diploma or GED required; technical certification, vocational training, or associate degree in hydraulics, fluid power, industrial maintenance, or related field strongly preferred.
• Proficiency with hand tools, diagnostic equipment, and basic computer skills (e.g., MS Office for documentation).
• Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced plant environment.
• Strong communication skills to interact effectively with plant management, operators, and vendors.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, work at heights, and perform physically demanding tasks safely.
• Commitment to safety and a proactive approach to preventing incidents.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification in hydraulics (e.g., Fluid Power Society certification, manufacturer-specific training) or related field.
• Experience in a manufacturing/plant setting with high-speed or heavy equipment.
• Familiarity with preventive maintenance software or CMMS systems.
• Basic knowledge of PLCs, pneumatics, or electrical systems as a plus.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, 401(k), etc.)
• Opportunities for professional development and advancement
• Stable, essential role with direct impact on plant performance

If you are a hydraulic expert with leadership potential who thrives in a supportive, high-responsibility role, we encourage you to apply. Join our team and help keep our plant running at maximum efficiency!