Entry Level Machine Operator Jobs in Michigan City, IN

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.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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