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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Electromechanical Technician

💰 $55,000 - $85,000

Skilled TradesManufacturingMaintenanceEngineeringAutomation

🎯 Role Definition

As an Electromechanical Technician, you are the backbone of our operations, ensuring the seamless functionality of our advanced manufacturing and automation systems. You will be tasked with diagnosing and resolving complex issues across a wide range of equipment, from robotic arms and PLC-controlled machinery to intricate pneumatic and hydraulic systems. This role requires a proactive problem-solver who can perform precision repairs, execute preventative maintenance, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives. You will work hands-on with cutting-edge technology, collaborating closely with engineers and production teams to drive reliability and performance.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Industrial Maintenance Technician
  • Electrical Technician or Apprentice
  • Recent Graduate of a Mechatronics/Electromechanical Technology Program

Advancement To:

  • Lead Electromechanical Technician
  • Maintenance Supervisor or Manager
  • Automation or Controls Engineer
  • Field Service Engineer

Lateral Moves:

  • Controls Technician
  • Robotics Technician
  • Quality Assurance Engineer

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Perform complex troubleshooting and diagnostic repair of automated production machinery, including robotic systems, PLCs, and conveyance systems, to minimize downtime and resolve root causes.
  • Execute and meticulously document preventive and predictive maintenance schedules on all electromechanical equipment to ensure optimal performance, safety, and operational longevity.
  • Interpret and utilize complex electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and mechanical schematics, blueprints, and technical manuals for equipment installation, repair, and system modification.
  • Install, commission, and thoroughly test new industrial equipment and automation systems, ensuring they meet operational specifications and company safety standards before handover.
  • Diagnose, repair, and replace faulty electronic components such as sensors, printed circuit boards (PCBs), servo drives, and variable frequency drives (VFDs).
  • Calibrate a wide range of instrumentation and control systems to ensure manufacturing process accuracy and maintain final product quality.
  • Perform precision mechanical alignments and adjustments on machinery components, including bearings, gearboxes, chains, sprockets, and precision transfer systems.
  • Utilize our Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) to accurately log work orders, manage spare parts inventory, and generate detailed maintenance reports.
  • Adhere strictly to all plant and OSHA safety protocols, including Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO), arc flash safety (NFPA 70E), and machine guarding procedures.
  • Troubleshoot and perform minor modifications to PLC ladder logic (primarily Allen-Bradley) and HMI programs for equipment adjustments and process improvements.
  • Fabricate or machine replacement parts, custom guards, and brackets using welders, lathes, milling machines, and other standard machine shop equipment.
  • Collaborate directly with engineering and operations teams to identify root causes of recurring equipment failures and participate actively in continuous improvement (Kaizen) projects.
  • Manage the inventory of critical spare parts, including sourcing and ordering components as needed to prevent extended production downtime.
  • Respond to emergency equipment breakdowns with a strong sense of urgency to restore production in a safe, timely, and efficient manner.
  • Conduct functional and performance tests on repaired equipment to verify correct and safe operation before returning it to the production floor.
  • Provide essential technical guidance and on-the-job training to machine operators and junior maintenance personnel on equipment operation and basic upkeep.
  • Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair AC/DC motors and motor control circuits, ranging from fractional to high horsepower applications.
  • Install and bend conduit, pull and terminate wiring for new equipment installations and system upgrades in accordance with the National Electrical Code (NEC).
  • Support the integration and maintenance of peripheral systems, including machine vision cameras, barcode scanners, and various sensor technologies, into automated lines.
  • Document all repairs, modifications, and component replacements with detailed notes, photos, and diagrams for future reference and team knowledge sharing.
  • Analyze machine performance data and OEE metrics to identify negative trends, predict potential failures, and recommend proactive maintenance strategies.

Secondary Functions

  • Participate actively in continuous improvement initiatives aimed at increasing machine reliability and reducing waste.
  • Assist in developing and updating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and maintenance documentation for plant equipment.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in all maintenance shops and on the production floor.
  • Provide technical support and clear communication to production staff regarding equipment status and repair timelines.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • PLC Troubleshooting: Advanced proficiency in troubleshooting PLC-based control systems, primarily Allen-Bradley (ControlLogix, CompactLogix, Studio 5000) and Siemens.
  • Robotics Maintenance: Experience maintaining and troubleshooting multi-axis robotic systems (e.g., FANUC, KUKA, ABB), including teaching points and hardware repair.
  • Schematic Interpretation: Ability to read, interpret, and redline complex electrical, electronic, pneumatic, and hydraulic schematics.
  • Drives & Motors: In-depth knowledge of Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), servo motors, and servo drives for setup, tuning, and troubleshooting.
  • Mechanical Systems: Strong skills in the repair and alignment of mechanical components like gearboxes, bearings, conveyors, pumps, and precision assemblies.
  • Diagnostic Tools: Proficient use of diagnostic equipment including multimeters, oscilloscopes, megohmmeters, and thermal imaging cameras.
  • Fabrication: Basic to intermediate welding (MIG/TIG) and machining (lathe/mill) skills for fabricating brackets, guards, and simple parts.
  • Industrial Networking: Familiarity with industrial networks such as EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, and Profibus for troubleshooting communication issues.
  • Safety Standards: Deep understanding and practical application of LOTO, NFPA 70E, and general OSHA safety regulations.
  • CMMS Proficiency: Experience using a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) like SAP PM, Maximo, or similar platforms.
  • Pneumatics & Hydraulics: Ability to diagnose and repair issues in complex pneumatic and hydraulic circuits, including valves, cylinders, and pumps.

Soft Skills

  • Analytical Problem-Solving: A systematic and logical approach to diagnosing complex, multi-disciplinary problems under pressure.
  • Sense of Urgency: The ability to prioritize critical tasks and work efficiently to minimize production downtime.
  • Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to clearly explain technical issues to non-technical staff and document work.
  • Teamwork & Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively within a team of technicians and collaborate with engineers and operators.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous and precise in carrying out repairs, performing maintenance, and documenting activities.
  • Adaptability: Flexible and able to adapt to shifting priorities, evolving technologies, and emergency situations.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED combined with a Technical Certificate in a relevant field.

Preferred Education:

Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) or Bachelor's Degree in Electromechanical Technology, Mechatronics, Industrial Technology, or Automation Engineering.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Electromechanical Technology
  • Mechatronics
  • Industrial Maintenance Technology
  • Automation & Robotics Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

3-7 years of hands-on experience as an Electromechanical or Industrial Maintenance Technician in a fast-paced, automated environment.

Preferred:

  • Experience in a high-volume manufacturing, distribution, food & beverage, or pharmaceutical environment.
  • Documented experience with specific PLC platforms (e.g., Allen-Bradley) and robotic systems (e.g., FANUC).
  • A journeyman card or other formal apprenticeship certification is highly desirable.
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