Mechanical Specialist

Job Location:  Hershey, PA

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Manufacturing & Maintenance Supervisor and working at the Technical Center. This position provides technical knowledge and skills to maintain all mechanical aspects of Pilot Plant equipment, in an operative and technologically current status. Perform routine mechanical repairs to support Technical Center Operations.  On an independent basis, position provides trouble shooting and problem solving using technical knowledge, analytical techniques, instrumentation and theory to maximize run-time and efficiencies of systems and processes.  Working independently with minimal direction, position coordinates the activities of internal disciplines and external contractors for the completion and start-up of routine and capital projects and ensures that all work is performed in accordance with established guidelines and regulations for safety, GMP’s and sanitation. 

This role will interact and partner with:

• Global R&D, Tech Center Operations, Engineering, QRC, and CI

Role Responsibilities:

• Working independently with minimal direction, perform Mechanical repairs and maintenance to laboratory and Pilot Plant systems and equipment in a manner that fully supports building operations and Pilot Plant activities.  Using in-depth knowledge, analytical techniques and mechanical theory, trouble shoot and analyze problems and bring to resolution in a timely manner. Repair of all aspects of mechanical processes and equipment.
• Engineer, recommend, and implement design modifications to systems and equipment to enhance operations.  Manage the planning, implementation and start-up of capital projects and expenditures.  Arrange and coordinate the use of outside contract services as necessary to accomplish this work. Track expenditures to ensure that approved limits are adhered to and that performance and completion expectations are met.
• By utilizing the Maintenance Management System, prioritize and schedule requested and Preventative Maintenance work in a manner that fully supports Pilot Plant operations, maximizes run-times and enhances efficiencies.  Change priorities when required to accommodate unscheduled work requests. Schedule and direct the activities of outside contractors to accomplish routine work and work associated with capital projects. Provide coverage for other Mechanical Specialists as needed during periods of absence and vacation
• Maintain a current listing of all Mechanical applications within the Technical Center with associated manual documentation. Ensure that the required tasks are entered into the Preventative Maintenance Management System to maintain the reliability of all mechanical equipment.
• Perform administrative duties associated with vendor contacts, procurement of parts and services, credit card transactions, and inventory.  Attend department and team meetings, training, development and certification sessions as scheduled.

Qualifications:

• High School diploma; Two-year Technical degree or certification in related field preferred.

• 1-3 years relevant experience in mechanical specialty or equivalent. Experience in food processing environment preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Required:

• Knowledge of Mechanical engineering practices and application.
• Knowledge of products and processes associated with the Food Industry.
• Knowledge of computer/PLC applications related to food (confectionery) processing.
• Thorough knowledge of Mechanical “Safety Work Procedures.”
• Ability to effectively communicate technical data to non-technical personnel.
• Ability to plan and perform work with minimal direction and supervision.
• Ability to effectively communicate and coordinate the activities of contractors, vendors, and less experienced specialists.
• Ability to plan and execute multiple priorities while being flexible and adaptive to change.
• Ability to troubleshoot and repair mechanical equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, shop drawings and building equipment specifications.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and 100 lbs. with help.
• Ability to bend stoop and kneel in the process of performing responsibilities.