Maintenance Reliability Technician

Job Overview Supports maintenance teams in daily repair and preventive activities while supporting engineers with process improvements, automation, and continuous improvement initiatives to ensure reliable and efficient production operations. Provide expert support to maintenance technicians to ensure timely completion of repair, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance tasks. Provide hands‑on support in complex repairs, equipment disassembly/reassembly, and electrical/mechanical troubleshooting when needed. Train and mentor technicians in safe work practices, troubleshooting methods, and use of diagnostic equipment. Ensure accurate documentation of maintenance work, parts usage, and equipment status. Support engineers by gathering production and equipment performance data for analysis and improvement projects. Assist in the implementation of engineering‑driven process changes, equipment modifications, and technology updates (e.g., PLC, KUKA, VFDs, PC controllers). Provide feedback from the floor to engineering teams on the effectiveness of process changes and improvement initiatives. Contribute to continuous improvement and Lean Manufacturing activities by helping implement engineer‑developed solutions. Oversee preventive and predictive maintenance programs to ensure equipment reliability and compliance with manufacturer specifications. Monitor daily equipment performance and elevate recurring issues to engineering for further analysis. Coordinate small‑to‑medium‑scale modernization or upgrade projects under the direction of engineering. Support cost‑reduction, cycle‑time optimization, and quality improvement efforts while maintaining production targets. Serve as the primary link between the technician team and engineering, ensuring effective two‑way communication. Collaborate with production associates to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient operation of equipment. Participate in cross‑functional meetings to represent technician capabilities and provide practical input on engineering plans. Support training programs for production and maintenance staff, preparing materials and reinforcing engineer‑led initiatives. Coordinate procurement of spare parts, tools, and external service providers as needed. May assist with budget tracking and project planning activities under engineer supervision. Travel and overtime may be required. Perform other duties as assigned to support both technician teams and engineering functions. Knowledge and Skills Solid knowledge of industrial AC/DC electricity (24 V–480 V), hydraulics, pneumatics, and mechanical systems. Hands‑on experience with motors, bearings, conveyors, pumps, and sensors. Familiarity with PLCs, BUS systems, and industrial automation required; Siemens S7 and Allen‑Bradley preferred. Exposure to robotics (KUKA, Dürr, or similar) highly preferred; ability to support engineers with robot programming, troubleshooting, and updates. Ability to support off‑line simulations, process adjustments, and control system modifications under engineer direction. Experience with process devices such as motor drives, encoders, converters, and control sensors. Basic 2D/3D CAD exposure (Inventor, SolidWorks, Catia, or similar) preferred. Competency with computer systems, including Microsoft Office, CMMS, and technical documentation tools. Ability to lead and coordinate maintenance technicians, assigning tasks and ensuring completion of repairs and PMs. Provide hands‑on troubleshooting support and escalates complex issues to engineering as needed. Strong communication skills to serve as the liaison between technicians, engineers, and production staff. Capable of training less experienced technicians and supporting employee skill development. Familiarity with structured problem‑solving methods (8D, PDCA, root cause analysis). Strong organizational and planning skills to balance maintenance needs with longer‑term engineering initiatives. Experience supporting continuous improvement initiatives, process optimization, and cost‑reduction projects. Ability to collect, document, and communicate production and equipment performance data to engineering. Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing concepts and value‑stream improvements preferred. Basic understanding of process layout, efficiency targets, and equipment utilization to support improvements. Qualifications High School Diploma or GED required; Associate’s degree in Industrial Maintenance, Mechatronics, Engineering Technology, or a related field preferred. Required: 5 + years of relevant experience in maintenance, automation, or manufacturing operations; or technical certificate + 4 years relevant experience. Preferred: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant technical field (Industrial, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering Technology) with 2 + years experience. Experience leading or mentoring maintenance teams is strongly preferred. Background supporting automation, robotics, and/or PLC‑controlled systems required; exposure to Body in White or manufacturing integration processes is a plus. Mercedes-Benz Vans, LLC is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that appreciates and leverages the diversity of our team. We provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), age, national origin, religion, marital status, veteran status, physical or other disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. #J-18808-Ljbffr