Preventative Maintenance (PM) Technician
Location: Newport News, Virginia
Employment Type: Full-Time
About Us
Certified Origins is a leading private label manufacturer of olive oil, committed to delivering high-quality, authentic, and traceable products to our partners and customers worldwide. We take pride in our craftsmanship, innovation, and dedication to food safety and operational excellence.
Position Summary
The PM Technician is responsible for ensuring the reliability, efficiency, and safety of production equipment and facilities by performing routine inspections, preventative maintenance, and minor repairs. This role plays a key part in minimizing downtime, extending equipment life, and supporting smooth daily operations in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform scheduled preventative maintenance tasks on production lines, packaging equipment, pumps, motors, conveyors, and facility systems.
- Conduct routine inspections, troubleshooting, and adjustments to ensure optimal equipment performance.
- Effective utilization of the company’s CMMS system to document repairs, upload photos of compliant/non-compliant parts, review inventory, create work orders, and digitally log all maintenance activities.
- Document maintenance activities, findings, and repairs in accordance with company procedures.
- Identify potential mechanical, electrical, and safety issues before they become critical.
- Assist with installation, setup, and calibration of new machinery and equipment.
- Support emergency repair efforts to reduce downtime when breakdowns occur.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment that complies with food safety and OSHA standards.
- Collaborate with production, quality, and engineering teams to ensure continuous improvement in reliability and efficiency.
- Participate in training to stay updated on equipment, tools, and safety practices.
- Other duties as assigned.
Required Skills & Competencies
- Strong mechanical aptitude with knowledge of industrial equipment maintenance.
- High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification in Industrial Maintenance, Mechatronics, or related field preferred.
- 2+ years of maintenance experience in a food manufacturing, packaging, or industrial environment (olive oil or food industry experience a plus).
- Familiarity with preventive maintenance programs and practices.
- Physical ability to lift 50 lbs., stand for long periods, and work in manufacturing conditions.
- Ability to effectively use CMMS software to document maintenance functions, track parts, and generate work orders.
- Positive work attitude and a willingness to assist where needed, including facility tasks and manual labor.
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
- Good communication and teamwork abilities.
What We Offer
- Competitive compensation and benefits package
- Opportunity to be part of a growing, international company with a strong commitment to sustainability.
- Training and career development opportunities.
- A supportive and collaborative workplace culture.