Panel Builder

Panel Builder

The Panel Builder fabricates electrical sub-assemblies for water chillers and process cooling equipment, assembles and wires custom control panels from detailed schematics, and ensures all work meets quality and safety standards. This role combines electrical and mechanical assembly, blueprint and schematic reading, and hands-on troubleshooting to support reliable, high-performing equipment.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate electrical sub-assemblies for water chillers and process cooling equipment according to specifications and work orders.
• Wire custom control panels by following detailed schematics, diagrams, and electrical drawings.
• Hard-wire equipment per engineering drawings to ensure proper operation and compliance with design requirements.
• Inspect and test wiring installations, assemblies, and circuits for resistance, continuity, and proper operation, and accurately record test results.
• Adjust, repair, or replace electrical components and assemblies to correct defects and ensure conformance to specifications and quality standards.
• Clean parts and assemblies using appropriate cleaning solutions, air hoses, and cloths to maintain equipment readiness and cleanliness.
• Read and interpret schematic drawings, diagrams, blueprints, specifications, work orders, and reports to determine materials, tools, and assembly instructions.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes and contribute to safe, efficient, and quality-driven work practices.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area through daily sweeping and general housekeeping activities.
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet production schedules and resolve assembly or wiring issues as they arise.

Essential Skills

• 12 years of panel building experience in an industrial or manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in panel wiring and electrical assembly, including working with control panels and sub-assemblies.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematic drawings, and electrical diagrams.
• Hands-on electrical and mechanical experience related to equipment assembly, wiring, and troubleshooting.
• Ability to consistently lift 50+ pounds as part of daily job duties.
• Experience working with refrigeration or chiller-related equipment is strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with safe use of hand tools, power tools, and test equipment for electrical assembly and inspection.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality, accurate work.
• High School Diploma or GED.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working in the heat transfer industry or with process cooling equipment.
• Experience in assembling or servicing refrigeration systems or related industrial equipment.
• Understanding of industrial safety practices and lockout/tagout procedures.
• Ability to follow detailed written and verbal instructions and work from technical documentation.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to diagnose and correct wiring or assembly issues.
• Willingness to work in a union environment after conversion to permanent employment.

Why Work Here?

Employees join a stable, medium-sized company that prioritizes taking care of its people and operates as an essential business, providing consistent work and long-term security. Team members benefit from a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, profit sharing, an employee incentive program, and a 401(k) match. The organization offers generous paid time off, with three or more weeks of PTO, nine paid holidays, and additional community service hours, supporting strong work-life balance. There is a clear focus on career growth and internal mobility, with regular opportunities for advancement and a track record of promoting from within. Working in a union environment provides structured annual raises and transparent compensation progression, helping employees plan for their future with confidence.

Work Environment

This job involves hands-on fabrication and wiring of electrical panels and sub-assemblies for chillers and process cooling equipment, using tools such as hand tools, power tools, and electrical test equipment. The position requires regular lifting of 50+ pounds and standing, bending, and moving throughout the day. The facility maintains a focus on cleanliness and safety, with expectations for daily sweeping and general housekeeping. After a typical evaluation period of about 60 days, employees transition into a union environment, where work practices and conditions follow established union guidelines. The company operates as an essential business, providing a steady workload and a structured, team-oriented setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Niles, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $25.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Niles, IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 17, 2026.