Entry Level Machine Operator Jobs in Gary, IN (NOW HIRING)

Maintenance Technician – Entry Level

Primary Location: Portage, IN

Since 1882, Leeco Steel has been focused on safe, profitable, and sustainable growth through the direct sale of a wide range of processed metal products. Guided by our Core Values, we put safety first – always, and we believe in cultivating an inclusive workplace where employee belonging, and empowerment are foundational to everything we do. Leeco Steel offers employees the best of both worlds: the culture and community of a closely connected team with the resources, opportunity, and stability of a large, growing organization.

Position Summary

The Maintenance Technician supports ongoing operations by maintaining, repairing, and improving machinery, equipment, and the warehouse facility in a safe and timely manner. This entry-level role contributes to continuous improvement efforts and focuses on improving safety, quality, and efficiency across all maintenance activities. The position is ideal for individuals looking to build a career in industrial maintenance within a steel service center environment.

Duties & Responsibilities

· Demonstrate a strong commitment to workplace safety and follow all safety policies and procedures

· Assist with maintenance, repair, and improvement of machinery, production equipment, and warehouse facility systems

· Perform preventive maintenance and routine inspections on machines, equipment, and facility infrastructure

· Support mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic troubleshooting and repairs under guidance of senior technicians

· Respond to unscheduled or emergency equipment repairs to support production when needed

· Assist with upkeep of cutting equipment, sawing equipment, CNC machinery, material handling systems, cranes, and lifting devices

· Perform basic fabrication and repair tasks using hand tools, power tools, and welding equipment as trained

· Complete daily, weekly, and routine housekeeping and maintenance tasks in assigned work areas

· Read and use production documents, work instructions, drawings, and schematics related to maintenance activities

· Use basic math skills, calculators, and conversion charts to perform size, weight, and metric calculations

· Participate in required safety, technical, and skills training programs

· Support continuous improvement initiatives and participate in audits or improvement activities as requested

· Work in different areas or workstations as production and maintenance needs require

· Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas

· Travel to other Leeco facilities as needed

· Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

· Entry-level experience encouraged; previous experience in an industrial maintenance or manufacturing environment preferred

· Steel service center experience is a plus but not required

· Mechanical aptitude with interest in industrial maintenance systems

· Basic familiarity with mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and automation concepts preferred

· Ability to read basic equipment drawings, electrical schematics, and plumbing diagrams

· Ability to inspect materials and equipment using measuring devices and drawings

· Working knowledge and safe use of hand tools and shop equipment; welding experience or willingness to learn preferred

· Basic computer skills with the ability to use common programs and maintenance systems

· Willingness to learn troubleshooting techniques for electrical and mechanical systems

· Flexibility in work schedule, including overtime or off-shift support as required

· Ability to communicate effectively in English

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

· Standing, walking, bending, kneeling, climbing, and lifting up to 50 lbs

· Working at heights using ladders, lifts, scaffolding, or elevated platforms

· Exposure to moving machinery, electrical components, heat, noise, vibration, dust, fumes, oils, and cutting fluids

· Operating forklifts, high lifts, and other industrial equipment (training provided)

Why Work for Leeco Steel:

Leeco Steel offers comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision benefits; paid holidays and vacation; a 401(k) match and tuition reimbursement. We offer more than a competitive total compensation package. We provide our employees the ability to build a meaningful life-long career.

You should be proficient in:

• Electrical Troubleshooting
• Electrical Repair
• Maintenance and Repair Skills