Weekend Performance Optimization Jobs in Chicago, IL

Position requires ability to work overtime. As a result, it may require working varying start times, end times, and weekends dependent on business needs.  

Core hours: 4pm-4:30am

*Must be flexible to work weekends/holiday when needed

The HVAC Mechanic, reporting to the Maintenance Supervisor, plays a critical role in maintaining the systems that keep our candy manufacturing operations running safely, efficiently, and reliably. Your expertise will directly support product quality, equipment performance, and continuous production by ensuring optimal operation of our HVAC, steam, compressed air, refrigeration, and utility systems. 

• Maintain and optimize HVAC systems, including condensers, air handling units (AHUs), refrigerant circuits, heating systems, and DX coils to ensure consistent temperature and humidity conditions that support candy production quality and food safety 
• Troubleshoot and service air compressors, blowers, cooling motors, check valves, air dryers, and filtration systems to provide reliable compressed air for manufacturing equipment and minimize production downtime  
• Support critical humidity control by maintaining dehumidifiers, motors, desiccant wheels, filters, and K-bars, helping preserve product consistency, prevent moisture-related defects, and maintain ideal processing conditions  
• Monitor and maintain chiller systems, including water, glycol, and refrigerant circuits, to ensure efficient cooling performance and stable operating temperatures throughout the facility 
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on steam systems, including generators, pumps, deaerator tanks, hot water holding tanks, economizers, valves, steam traps, limit switches, and piping networks to maximize system reliability and energy efficiency  
• Conduct water quality testing, including hardness and conductivity analysis, to protect equipment from scale buildup, corrosion, and performance loss while supporting safe and efficient plant operations  
• Manage water treatment chemical programs to maintain system integrity, extend equipment life, and ensure compliance with operational and safety standards
• Inspect, troubleshoot, and repair thermal oxidizer components, including gas valves and burners, to support environmental compliance and efficient emissions control  
• Maintain industrial heating equipment, including boilers, heat exchangers, hot water systems, steam radiators, electric heaters, and storage tanks, ensuring dependable process heat for manufacturing operations  
• Identify opportunities to improve equipment performance, reduce energy consumption, and increase system reliability through proactive maintenance and continuous improvement initiatives
• Respond quickly to equipment issues and production needs, helping minimize downtime and maintain uninterrupted manufacturing schedules  

• Proficient in brazing and copper pipe sweating for HVAC, refrigeration, and process piping systems
• Skilled in soldering techniques for mechanical and plumbing applications
• Ability to install, modify, and repair HVAC ductwork systems
• Proficient in pipe bending, routing, and installation for refrigeration, steam, hydronic, and condensate systems 
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and mechanical drawings
• Knowledge of air circulation balancing and airflow optimization for HVAC systems
• Strong understanding of ventilation systems maintenance and performance optimization
• Working knowledge of hydronic heating and cooling systems, including pumps, valves, and piping networks 
• Skilled in the fabrication, installation, and maintenance of condensate drainage systems
• Proficient in cleaning and maintaining evaporator, condenser, and process cooling coils to maximize system efficiency and airflow 
• Strong leak detection and repair skills for refrigerant, water, steam, and compressed air systems 
• Basic maintenance knowledge of air compressors, including oil changes, coil cleaning, and routine inspections  
• Ability to perform emergency repairs and temporary corrective actions to keep critical equipment operational while minimizing production disruptions  
• Strong judgment in prioritizing equipment repairs based on production impact, safety, and operational requirements  
• Ability to document mechanical issues clearly, including photographing equipment conditions and communicating repair recommendations effectively
• Strong understanding of preventive maintenance practices that promote proper airflow, system efficiency, and equipment longevity
• Knowledge of EPA refrigerant handling requirements and commitment to preventing refrigerant releases through responsible maintenance and repair practices  
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while maintaining a strong focus on safety, quality, and continuous improvement

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience 
• Minimum of 1 year experience with chillers and HVAC systems required 
• Experience with SAP or similar, Microsoft Word and Excel 
• Experience troubleshooting, repairing, and rebuilding heat pumps and related HVAC equipment
• Experience troubleshooting and maintaining boiler room equipment and associated controls
• Experience performing welding repairs and fabrication work on industrial equipment and piping systems  
• Experience repairing and maintaining steam traps, filters, strainers, and steam distribution components 
• Experience detecting and addressing refrigerant and oil leaks to maintain equipment reliability and regulatory compliance

At Ferrara, we're proud to support our employees by providing comprehensive benefits such as health insurance, dental insurance, a 401(k), and paid time off (PTO).  Eligible employees may also receive an annual bonus based on company performance. Learn more about our benefits at https://flimp.live/Ferrara-Candy-2025-OE-QR

The salary for this role is $38.00 per hour plus $1.00 per hour shift differential.