Real Performance Machinery

Job Description

Mechanical Field Service Technician Real Performance Machinery, LLC (RPM) Location: Field-based (United States) – Extensive travel required Department: Service & Support Reports To: Service Manager

About Real Performance Machinery

Real Performance Machinery, LLC (RPM) is a world-class manufacturer of technologically advanced, purpose-built capital equipment for the wood production industry. Headquartered in Independence, Virginia, RPM specializes in high-value machinery and systems for primary and secondary breakdown processing in sawmills and planer mills. Our team of industry experts in engineering, manufacturing, automation, controls, and customer service is driven by a commitment to quality, innovation, and first-class support. We deliver solutions that exceed expectations, minimize downtime, and provide superior ROI for our customers through on-site installations, precision alignments, and ongoing service.

Job Summary

As a Mechanical Field Service Technician, you will be working in a demanding role as a direct representative for Real Performance Machinery performing service, installation, upgrades, and precision alignment of Sawmill and Planer mill equipment for customers on-site in a professional environment. You will embody RPM’s values of respect, trust, teamwork, and excellence while ensuring equipment performs at peak efficiency and customers receive exceptional support.

Key Responsibilities

• Travel to customer sawmills and planer mills nationwide to perform professional on-site installations, start-ups, commissioning, and upgrades of RPM equipment (including gangs, profilers, saw lube systems, and related machinery).
• Execute precision laser alignments and mechanical adjustments to optimize equipment performance and recovery.
• Provide comprehensive mechanical and controls on-site service, including troubleshooting, repairs, preventive maintenance, and planned maintenance contracts.
• Conduct equipment audits, consultations, and operational recommendations to help customers maximize production and minimize downtime.
• Train and support customer mill personnel on safe operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting procedures.
• Maintain detailed service reports, documentation, and communication with internal teams and customers.
• Represent RPM with the highest level of professionalism, building long-term customer relationships through honest, reliable service.
• Adhere strictly to all safety protocols, company policies, and industry standards in dynamic industrial environments.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or GED (technical certificate, associate degree, or millwright/apprenticeship training strongly preferred).
• 3+ years of hands-on mechanical field service or maintenance experience, ideally with heavy industrial machinery, sawmill equipment, or similar capital equipment.
• Proficiency with hand tools, power tools, measuring instruments, and alignment equipment (laser alignment experience highly valued).
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, manuals, and schematics.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with basic knowledge of electrical/controls systems (PLC/HMI exposure a plus).
• Willingness and ability to travel extensively (typically 70%+), including overnight and weekend stays.
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record; ability to obtain passport if required.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and customer-service skills.
• Commitment to safety and a professional demeanor at all customer sites.

Preferred

• Prior experience in the lumber, wood products, or sawmill industry.
• Welding, fabrication, or rigging experience.
• Familiarity with RPM equipment or similar purpose-built sawmill machinery.

Physical & Work Environment Demands

• Ability to lift to 50 lbs., work at heights, in confined spaces, and in varying outdoor/indoor industrial conditions.
• Frequent standing, bending, kneeling, climbing ladders/stairs, and working in dusty or noisy environments.
• You must be physically fit and comfortable with extended travel and field work.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary with performance incentives and per diem for travel.
• Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), and more).
• Company-provided tools, vehicle or travel reimbursement, and all travel expenses covered.
• Ongoing training and development opportunities in a growing, employee-focused company.
• A supportive culture built on respect, mentoring, continuous improvement, and long-term customer relationships.

Real Performance Machinery is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

If you are a skilled, customer-focused technician who thrives in a fast-paced, travel-intensive role and wants to represent a leader in sawmill technology, we encourage you to apply. Join our team and help lumber mills achieve operational excellence with RPM’s advanced equipment!