Entry Level Maintenance Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

At Ellsworth Creamery, our team members are more than employees; they are like family and we are committed to their success. This culture has contributed to the longevity of our staff, whose careers at Ellsworth Creamery span 10, 20 and even 50 years! Join our Team as we work with our cooperative of local farmers to create award-winning cheese!

Reports To: Maintenance Supervisor

Supervises: None

Type: Hourly, Union, Non-Exempt

The Facilities Maintenance Technician is responsible for maintaining facility systems and production equipment to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient operations. This role performs intermediate-level maintenance, troubleshooting, inspections, and repair of facility systems and production equipment. Proactively identifies and corrects issues to minimize downtime and support reliable operations. This role works with moderate independence and is responsible for diagnosing issues and supporting reliable plant operations. This position may be filled by a qualified apprentice who is actively developing the technical skills required for this level and is working under the guidance of senior maintenance staff.

ESSEENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform preventive maintenance, inspections, and repairs on facility systems (HVAC, water, steam, utilities).
• Complete repairs to building structures and perform general facility upkeep and appearance, including seasonal tasks.
• Maintain and troubleshoot production and packaging equipment through cleaning, lubrication, and making minor adjustments.
• Assist in the repair and replacement of components such as drives, pumps, valves, knives, chains, etc.
• Support mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and basic electrical systems, including replacing motors, switches, contactors, and performing standard corrective work.
• Complete routine rounds, readings, and equipment checks; perform basic troubleshooting, support calibration activities, and escalate complex issues as needed.
• Utilize, track and manage work orders and parts ordering through the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).

SAFETY & COMPLIANCE

• Follow all safety policies, procedures, and lockout/tagout (LOTO) and PPE requirements.
• Maintain clean and sanitary work areas in accordance with GMP standards and ensure equipment meets food-safe or operational standards.
• Identify and proactively address potential safety hazards.
• Ensure all work is completed in compliance with company policies and regulatory standards.

TEAMWORK & EXPECTATIONS

• Take ownership of assigned areas and equipment performance.
• Communicate effectively with operations, supervisors, and maintenance team members.
• Respond to equipment issues and emergency repairs with a sense of urgency to support production needs.
• Demonstrate reliability, accountability, and a continuous improvement mindset.
• Maintain regular attendance and flexibility for shift or on-call work.
• All other duties as assigned to support operational needs and ensure continuity of coverage.

REQUIRED SKILLS:

• Strong mechanical troubleshooting skills.
• Working knowledge of electrical systems, including 3-phase power.
• Basic understanding of PLC operations and diagnostics preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret technical schematics and manuals.
• Basic math skills (add, subtract, multiply, divide, and unit conversions)
• Basic welding and fabrication skills preferred.
• Understanding of food manufacturing processes and sanitation standards.
• Ability to work independently while recognizing when to escalate issues.
• Strong communication and documentation skills.
• Ability to work in a team environment and promote a positive workplace culture.
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measurement.
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, weekends, and on-call as required.
• Basic computer skills preferred.

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 2+ years of maintenance experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment preferred; OR
• Enrollment in or completion of a formal maintenance apprenticeship program; OR
• Demonstrated progression from entry-level maintenance skills with proven competency growth.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Ability to lift 50+ lbs. repetitively.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and climb stairs or ladders for extended periods.
• Comfortable working at heights and in confined spaces.
• Ability to work in varying environmental conditions.
• Pass a drug & alcohol screen and general background check.

WORK ENVIRONMENT / ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

• Food manufacturing plant environment, both indoors and outdoors.
• Exposure to noise, temperature changes, humidity, and weather conditions.
• Must adhere to all food safety, quality, and plant safety policies and regulations.

Benefits Package - excellent benefits for you and the family!

• PTO - 80 hours in the first year of service!
• Affordable Medical, Dental, Vision
• Supplemental Insurances: Accidental, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity
• 401k & Pension
• Company provided benefits: STD, LTD, Life Insurances

Our Ellsworth, Wisconsin facility specializes solely in the production of our world-famous All Natural White Cheddar Cheese Curds, both natural and flavored, our All Natural Cheddar Cheese Curd Crumbles and sweet whey powder.

Committed to our Team, Craft & Community, Since 1910