DESCRIPTION
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Midwest Foods Manufacturing Inc., a leading industrial bakery serving nearly 300 Chicagoland locations, is seeking a mechanically inclined individual to join our maintenance team. This entry-level role supports the upkeep of bakery production equipment and facility infrastructure, ensuring safe, efficient, and sanitary operations.Performs a variety of general and preventative maintenance functions to maintain the functionality of Bakery mechanical and electrical systems, to include Bakery production equipment and general building maintenance. Tasks are to be performed in conformity with departmental procedures and food safety considerations.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform routine mechanical maintenance on bakery equipment including Belshaw proofers, fryers (Class 600), Econoicers, Century filters, Rondo dough sheeters, Baxter ovens and proofers, Douglas pan and rack washers, and cooling conveyor systems and finishing equipment.
- Conduct preventative maintenance activities including lubrication, belt replacement, filter cleaning, and motor inspection.
- Support senior technicians in diagnosing mechanical and electrical issues.
- Assist with basic electrical tasks, including replacing fuses, checking circuits, and reading wiring diagrams.
- Clean and sanitize equipment components as part of maintenance routines.
- Keep work areas clean and organized to ensure a safe environment.
- Support senior mechanics in troubleshooting mechanical issues and performing repairs.
- Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities using CMMS or manual logs in compliance with HACCP and GMP standards.
- Follow all safety and sanitation protocols, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures.
- Participate in training on food safety, equipment handling, and maintenance procedures.
- Participate in mechanical or maintenance duties related to the building and grounds, including minor plumbing, lighting, HVAC filter changes, and exterior upkeep.
- Assists production workers in diagnosing malfunctions in systems and equipment.
- Maintains production equipment while operating on a defined production schedule.
- Performing minor plumbing repairs such as fixing leaks or replacing faucets
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Common Parts You'll Work With
- Belts & chains
- Bearings & bushings
- Motors & gearboxes
- Heating elements & thermostats
- Pumps & impellers
- Nozzles & filters
- Gaskets & seals
- Electrical connectors (basic awareness)
- Control panels (basic resets and inspections)
Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED required; technical or vocational training in mechanics or industrial maintenance preferred.
- Basic mechanical aptitude and familiarity with hand/power tools
- Ability to follow instructions and work collaboratively.
- Strong attention to cleanliness, safety, and detail.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in wet, hot/cold environments
- Willingness to work flexible shifts including weekends and holidays
Preferred Skills
- Exposure to food manufacturing or processing environments.
- Familiarity with CMMS software.
- Basic understanding of sanitary design and food-grade equipment.
- Familiarity with HACCP, GMP, or other food safety standards.
Recommended Certifications
- OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Safety
- Basic Food Safety Training (HACCP awareness)
- Forklift Operation Certification
- Lockout/Tagout Training
Benefits
- Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision)
- Company funded life insurance
- Illinois Secure Choice Retirement Plan
- Paid Time Off
- On-the-job training and career development opportunities
- Company wide discount program
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Ability to work in a hot, cold, wet, frozen, dusty, and loud environment
- This position requires an employee to have adequate communication and observational skills
- Frequently works near moving mechanical parts
Ability to work Weekends, Holidays and Overtime as required
*Pay will be based off of experience*
REQUIREMENTS
Midwest Foods Manufacturing Inc. is a leading industrial bakery based in the Chicagoland area. For the past 16 years, we have been producing and delivering fresh donuts daily to nearly 300 locations across the city and surrounding suburbs. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has fueled continuous growth, with new stores added every year. We are proud to be a trusted name in the local food industry and are excited to welcome new talent to our expanding team.