Entry Level Performance Engineer Jobs in Columbus, OH

About the Opportunity

We are seeking an entry-level Mechanical Engineer to support maintenance operations in a refrigerated dough manufacturing environment. This role blends hands‑on maintenance technician responsibilities with engineering-focused process improvement initiatives.

The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining and improving equipment reliability, executing preventive and corrective maintenance, and driving operational excellence through development of standard operating procedures (SOPs), process documentation, and continuous improvement projects.

This role plays a critical part in reducing downtime, improving equipment performance, and building sustainable systems that enhance production efficiency and product quality.

This role will report directly to our Maintenance Manager

• Troubleshoot mechanical and basic electrical issues on production equipment and restore functionality.
• Perform preventive maintenance (PM), predictive, corrective, and condition‑based maintenance activities to reduce breakdowns.
• Execute scheduled work orders and maintenance inspections during planned downtime windows.
• Operate, set up, start up, adjust, shut down, and perform changeovers on production equipment according to company standards.
• Maintain and improve line equipment reliability and performance.
• Read and interpret blueprints and schematics.
• Troubleshoot and repair pneumatic, hydraulic, and steam systems including cylinders, valves, compressors, and piping.
• Support fabrication of small machine parts, guards, and modifications as needed.

• Develop, document, and standardize maintenance procedures and workflows using CMMS (MaintainX).
• Create and maintain SOPs, work instructions, and technical documentation for equipment operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Translate troubleshooting learnings into standardized procedures to prevent recurring failures.
• Support creation of visual aids, job plans, and maintenance standards to improve technician consistency and efficiency.
• Ensure accurate documentation of completed work orders, inspections, and improvements within CMMS.

• Analyze equipment failures and implement corrective actions to eliminate root causes.
• Identify opportunities to improve uptime, reduce waste, and optimize maintenance strategies.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on reliability, efficiency, and changeover reduction.
• Support data‑driven decision‑making using maintenance KPIs (downtime, MTBF, MTTR, etc.).
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to enhance production flow and material sequencing.

• Coordinate with maintenance and production teams to schedule and execute maintenance activities.
• Communicate across shifts to ensure continuity of maintenance efforts and equipment performance.
• Support team initiatives, best practices, and department improvement ideas.
• Maintain strong working relationships with cross‑functional teams.
• Provide mentorship and knowledge sharing on equipment, troubleshooting, and processes as skills develop.

• Follow all food safety, regulatory, and quality standards (SQF, HACCP, GMPs).
• Maintain a clean and sanitary work environment during all operations.
• Perform required quality checks and complete associated documentation.

• Follow all company safety policies and OSHA requirements.
• Adhere to Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), fall protection, hot work, and other safety programs.
• Identify and report unsafe conditions and take corrective actions.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering (or related field) required

• Entry‑level (0‑2 years) experience in manufacturing, maintenance, or engineering environments preferred
• Internship or co‑op experience in industrial or food manufacturing is a plus

• Strong foundational knowledge of mechanical systems
• Electrical basics
• Pneumatics and hydraulics
• PLC fundamentals
• Ability to read technical drawings and schematics
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, etc.) and CMMS systems

• Strong problem‑solving and analytical skills
• Effective communication and teamwork
• Time management and task prioritization
• Continuous improvement mindset with attention to detail

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks (standing, bending, stooping)
• Willingness to work off‑shifts, weekends, or holidays as needed

• Hands‑on experience bridging engineering and maintenance
• Ownership of real process improvements and SOP development
• Exposure to food manufacturing, reliability engineering, and lean practices
• Career pathway into Maintenance Engineering, Reliability Engineering, or Operations Leadership