Maintenance Technician

Description

Open Gates Group, based near Kalona, IA, is a family of companies dedicated to the growth and manufacturing of local dairy products. What began as a single creamery has grown into 11 businesses that source, produce, and deliver high-quality Midwestern products to over 3,500 stores nationwide. Our organic milk is uniquely special because it comes from grass-fed cows on small family farms, pasteurized at the lowest legal temperature, non-homogenized, and verified regenerative through Land to Market- which means that our cows are grazed in a way that enhances the environment, rather than harming it.  We’re seeking a Maintenance Technician to support the production efforts at our food manufacturing facilities. 

Summary

The Maintenance Technician is responsible for the timely repair, preventive maintenance, and installation of industrial plant equipment. This role supports production by maintaining equipment such as filling machines, pasteurizers, motors, pumps, boilers, compressors, and conveying systems. The Maintenance Technician works collaboratively with operations and maintenance teams to minimize downtime, ensure compliance with safety standards, and support continuous improvement across OG facilities.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Equipment Maintenance & Repair

• Perform mechanical and limited electrical troubleshooting, repair, and maintenance of production equipment and facility systems.
• Inspect components to identify wear, misalignment, or mechanical issues and make appropriate repairs or adjustments.
• Realign, calibrate, and adjust functional components and control instruments.
• Start, test, and verify proper operation of machinery following repairs or modifications.
• Perform welding and fabrication as needed to repair or modify equipment.
• Assist with the installation, setup, and commissioning of new production machinery and equipment.

Preventive Maintenance & Documentation

• Perform scheduled preventive maintenance and safety inspections on assigned equipment.
• Complete work orders, maintenance logs, and task records accurately and on time.
• Read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and flow diagrams.
• Maintain compliance with all standard operating procedures (SOPs) and maintenance programs.

Safety, Compliance & Team Support

• Comply with all federal, state, and local safety regulations, including lockout/tagout and food safety requirements.
• Follow proper chemical handling procedures for food-grade products and maintenance materials.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and clean work environment.
• Work collaboratively with maintenance, production, and other departments to resolve issues and support operational needs.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support facility operations.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• Experience in troubleshooting mechanical breakdowns in a manufacturing or industrial environment is preferred.
• Working knowledge of boilers, compressors, welding, refrigeration, and industrial equipment is preferred.
• Ability to read technical documentation, schematics, and chemical labels.
• Problem-solving skills with the ability to multitask and work independently.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; team-oriented mindset.
• Ability to read, write, and perform basic math.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record required. Ability to obtain a CDL Class A license is preferred.
• Alignment with OG’s mission, values, and commitment to safety, quality, and integrity.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to lift, push, and pull up to 60 pounds routinely.
• Ability to climb ladders, stairs, and elevated platforms.
• Ability to squat, bend, kneel, crawl, and work in confined spaces.
• Regular use of power tools, hand tools, welding equipment, and diagnostic instruments.
• Ability to operate forklifts and other material-handling equipment.
• Walking and working on uneven surfaces at times, both indoors and outdoors.
• Ability to work in hot, cold, wet, and noisy environments common to food manufacturing facilities.
• Exposure to moving mechanical parts, electrical systems, and industrial equipment.

Our Benefits:

• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance, STD & LTD, and matching 401k  after 60 days.
• Benefit Bonus/Stipend
• Paid Holidays, Paid Time Off (PTO), & Birthday PTO
• Opportunity for advancement!
• Discounted employee purchases!
• Small company, entrepreneurial culture!