Equipment Maintenance Technician

Job description:

Company Overview

American Photonics is a U.S. manufacturer of precision optical components and infrared windows serving the aerospace, defense, medical, industrial, and commercial markets. Our operations depend on precision manufacturing equipment, reliable processes, and consistent quality standards.

We are seeking an experienced Industrial Maintenance Technician to support equipment reliability and minimize production downtime.

Position Overview

The Industrial Maintenance Technician is responsible for troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining manufacturing equipment and the supporting systems necessary for reliable production operations.

This is a hands-on technical position requiring strong mechanical, electrical, and electromechanical troubleshooting capabilities. The successful candidate must be able to diagnose equipment failures, perform repairs independently, and maintain production machinery through effective preventive maintenance practices.

Essential Responsibilities

Equipment Maintenance & Troubleshooting

• Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and electromechanical failures on industrial manufacturing equipment.
• Maintain CNC machines, grinders, polishing equipment, precision machinery, and associated production systems.
• Troubleshoot and repair motors, drives, bearings, spindles, pumps, sensors, electrical controls, and other machine components.
• Service electrical connections, compressed air, vacuum, coolant, cooling, and other utility systems directly supporting equipment operation.
• Perform equipment installations, relocations, adjustments, and commissioning in coordination with Engineering and Production.
• Coordinate with equipment manufacturers and outside service providers when specialized repairs are required.

Preventive Maintenance & Equipment Reliability

• Develop and execute preventive maintenance schedules based on equipment requirements, operating conditions, and manufacturer recommendations.
• Perform routine inspections, lubrication, adjustments, and component replacements to prevent equipment failures.
• Investigate recurring equipment problems, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions to improve reliability.
• Maintain critical spare parts and maintenance supplies to minimize equipment downtime.

Documentation, Safety & Production Support

• Maintain accurate maintenance records, equipment histories, and work orders.
• Coordinate with Production and Engineering to prioritize repairs and minimize disruption to manufacturing operations.
• Follow lockout/tagout (LOTO), electrical safety, OSHA, and equipment-specific safety procedures.
• Protect precision machinery and sensitive materials from contamination or damage during maintenance.
• Work with Engineering and Quality to verify equipment readiness following repairs or adjustments that may affect manufacturing processes.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience maintaining and repairing industrial manufacturing machinery or providing industrial equipment field service.
• Demonstrated ability to independently troubleshoot and repair mechanical and electrical equipment failures.
• Practical knowledge of industrial motors, drives, bearings, pumps, power transmission, and electromechanical systems.
• Working knowledge of pneumatic and hydraulic systems used in manufacturing machinery.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, equipment manuals, and technical documentation.
• Proficiency with multimeters, hand and power tools, precision measuring instruments, and maintenance diagnostic equipment.
• Experience performing preventive and corrective maintenance in a manufacturing environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience servicing CNC machines, precision machining equipment, grinders, polishing systems, or automated production machinery.
• Knowledge of PLC troubleshooting, variable frequency drives (VFDs), motor controls, and industrial automation.
• Experience in precision manufacturing, aerospace, defense, medical devices, electronics, or machine-tool service.
• Technical certification, apprenticeship, or formal training in Industrial Maintenance, Mechatronics, Electrical Technology, or Mechanical Technology.
• Experience with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS).
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 or AS9100 manufacturing environments.
• Welding, fabrication, or basic machining experience.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a methodical approach to equipment troubleshooting.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize repairs, and manage competing production demands.
• Sound judgment in determining appropriate repair methods and when specialized technical support is necessary.
• Attention to detail when working with precision machinery and sensitive components.
• Effective communication and collaboration with Production, Engineering, and Quality.
• Commitment to workplace safety, equipment reliability, and continuous improvement.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, reach, and work around industrial machinery.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, with appropriate assistance or lifting equipment when necessary.
• Ability to access equipment components in confined or elevated areas while following applicable safety procedures.
• Ability to use required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Compensation & Benefits

American Photonics offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including:

• Competitive hourly compensation based on experience and technical qualifications.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and paid holidays.

Work Authorization & Compliance

This position may involve access to export-controlled equipment, technical information, or customer-restricted programs. Applicants must meet applicable employment authorization requirements and any lawful export-control or contractual access requirements associated with the position.

Equal Opportunity Employer

American Photonics is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Compensation will be determined based on qualifications, relevant experience, and demonstrated technical capabilities. Duties and responsibilities may be adjusted to meet operational requirements.

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person