Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Journeyman Technician
💰 $60,000 - $85,000
🎯 Role Definition
Are you a master problem-solver with a passion for keeping complex systems running at peak performance? This role requires a dedicated and proficient Journeyman Technician to become an integral part of our maintenance and operations team. In this pivotal role, you will apply your advanced technical expertise to perform diagnostics, repairs, and preventive maintenance on a wide array of industrial machinery and facility infrastructure. You will be a key technical resource, trusted to work autonomously on challenging issues, mentor junior team members, and champion a culture of safety and continuous improvement. This is a fantastic opportunity for a seasoned technician to make a significant impact on our operational success and reliability.
📈 Career Progression
Typical Career Path
Entry Point From:
- Apprentice Technician
- Maintenance Mechanic II
- Specialized Equipment Operator
Advancement To:
- Lead Technician / Team Lead
- Maintenance Supervisor
- Facilities Manager
Lateral Moves:
- Field Service Engineer
- Quality Control & Reliability Specialist
- Technical Trainer
Core Responsibilities
Primary Functions
- Perform advanced diagnostics and root cause analysis on complex mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems to identify and resolve operational issues efficiently.
- Execute intricate repairs on production machinery, automation systems, and facility equipment, ensuring all work meets or exceeds safety and quality standards.
- Read, interpret, and work from complex blueprints, schematics, technical drawings, and manufacturer manuals to install, troubleshoot, and repair equipment.
- Conduct comprehensive preventive and predictive maintenance routines on critical assets to minimize unplanned downtime and extend equipment lifespan.
- Install, commission, and test new industrial equipment and systems, collaborating with engineering and production teams to ensure seamless integration.
- Calibrate and service a variety of electronic instruments, sensors, and control systems to ensure accuracy and reliability in production processes.
- Respond swiftly to emergency breakdowns and critical equipment failures, demonstrating a calm and methodical approach to troubleshooting under pressure.
- Meticulously document all maintenance activities, repairs, and parts usage in our Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) for accurate record-keeping and analysis.
- Adhere rigorously to all safety protocols, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), arc flash, and confined space entry, to maintain a safe working environment for all personnel.
- Perform skilled fabrication, welding (MIG, TIG, Stick), and machining tasks to create or repair custom parts and components as needed.
- Manage and maintain an inventory of critical spare parts and supplies, initiating procurement requests to prevent stockouts of essential items.
- Provide mentorship, technical guidance, and on-the-job training to apprentice technicians and other junior members of the maintenance team.
- Operate heavy equipment such as forklifts, aerial lifts, and cranes safely and effectively to support maintenance and installation projects.
- Troubleshoot and perform basic programming adjustments on Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), VFDs, and HMI interfaces (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens).
- Maintain and repair essential building systems, including HVAC, compressed air, plumbing, and electrical distribution panels.
- Identify opportunities for process improvements and equipment modifications to enhance reliability, safety, and efficiency, and present recommendations to leadership.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineers, production supervisors, and quality assurance, to resolve complex operational challenges.
- Lead small-scale maintenance projects, from planning and resource allocation to execution and final turnover.
- Ensure all work is compliant with local, state, and federal regulations, including OSHA and environmental standards.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and professional work area, applying 5S principles to the maintenance shop and job sites.
- Participate actively in continuous improvement initiatives, such as Kaizen events and reliability-centered maintenance (RCM) programs.
- Conduct post-repair testing and validation to confirm that equipment is functioning correctly and safely before returning it to service.
Secondary Functions
- Support engineering teams with technical expertise during the design and installation phases of new capital projects.
- Assist in the development and refinement of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and maintenance checklists.
- Participate in facility-wide safety committee meetings and contribute to site safety audits.
- Provide technical feedback and evaluations to the purchasing department for new equipment and vendor selection.
Required Skills & Competencies
Hard Skills (Technical)
- Advanced Electrical & Mechanical Troubleshooting and Diagnostics
- Blueprint, P&ID, and Electrical Schematic Interpretation
- PLC Fault Diagnosis (Allen-Bradley, Siemens preferred)
- Preventive Maintenance (PM) & Predictive Maintenance (PdM) Methodologies
- Proficiency with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS)
- Welding and Metal Fabrication (MIG, TIG, Stick)
- Hydraulic and Pneumatic System Design and Repair
- Expert Knowledge of OSHA Regulations and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Procedures
- HVAC System Maintenance and Repair
- Use of Precision Measuring Instruments (Micrometers, Calipers, Dial Indicators)
- Basic Machining Skills (Lathe, Mill)
Soft Skills
- Exceptional Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
- Clear and Effective Communication (Verbal and Written)
- Strong Time Management and Ability to Prioritize Competing Tasks
- High Level of Attention to Detail and Work Accuracy
- Mentorship and Coaching Abilities
- Adaptability in a Fast-Paced, Changing Environment
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Self-Motivation and the Ability to Work Autonomously
Education & Experience
Educational Background
Minimum Education:
- High School Diploma or GED.
- Completion of a state-certified or DOL-registered Apprenticeship Program in a relevant trade (e.g., Industrial Maintenance, Electrical, Millwright).
Preferred Education:
- Associate's Degree (A.A.S.) in a technical discipline such as Industrial Maintenance Technology, Mechatronics, or Electrical Engineering Technology.
- Journeyman Card or equivalent certification.
Relevant Fields of Study:
- Industrial Technology
- Mechanical Engineering Technology
- Electrical Maintenance
Experience Requirements
Typical Experience Range:
- 4-8 years of progressive, hands-on experience in an industrial, manufacturing, or commercial facilities maintenance role post-apprenticeship.
Preferred:
- Prior experience in a lead technician or mentorship role.
- Specific experience with automated conveyance, packaging lines, or CNC machinery.
- Certifications in welding (AWS), HVAC (EPA 608), or electrical safety (NFPA 70E).