Lube Technician

Job Description

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

The Lube Tech is responsible for running and improving the mill's lubrication program. Beyond performing scheduled lubrication, this position owns the lube routes and lube chart, manages oil analysis and contamination control, maintains automatic lubrication systems, and trains Oilers.

The Lube Tech plays a key role in equipment reliability. By making sure every machine gets the right lubricant, in the right amount, at the right time, and by spotting problems through oil analysis and route inspections, the Lube Tech helps prevent failures, reduce downtime, and extend equipment life. This is not an entry-level position; it requires an experienced technician who can run the program and train others.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Lubrication Program Management

• Own the mill's lubrication program, including lube routes, schedules, frequencies, quantities, and lubricant specifications for all sawmill, planer mill, and yard equipment.

• Build, update, and maintain the master lube chart and route sheets; label lube points and lubricant containers with a consistent identification system.

• Set and adjust lubrication frequencies and grease quantities based on equipment type, operating conditions, manufacturer recommendations, and failure history.

• Standardize and consolidate lubricants where possible to reduce cross-contamination risk and inventory cost.

• Enter lube PMs into the CMMS and keep PM tasks current as equipment is added, removed, or modified.

Lubrication & Equipment Care

• Perform scheduled lubrication of bearings, gearboxes, chains, sprockets, drives, conveyors, slides, guides, and hydraulic systems.

• Perform oil and filter changes on gearboxes, hydraulic units, and other equipment, including flushing when required.

• Install, maintain, and troubleshoot automatic and centralized lubrication systems, including pumps, lines, injectors, and controllers.

• Keep fittings, grease lines, and lube points clean, accessible, and in good repair.

Oil Analysis & Condition Monitoring

• Collect oil samples using proper sampling methods and locations; submit samples to the lab and track results.

• Review oil analysis reports for wear metals, contamination, water, and lubricant degradation; recommend and follow up on corrective action.

• Perform basic condition checks on the route, including infrared temperature readings and observations of noise, vibration, and leaks.

• Write work orders for problems found and communicate urgent findings to the Maintenance Supervisor immediately.

Contamination Control & Lubricant Storage

• Maintain the lube room as a clean, organized, labeled storage area with proper filtration and transfer equipment.

• Install and maintain desiccant breathers, filter carts, and sealed transfer containers.

• Filter new and in-service oil when required to meet cleanliness targets.

• Monitor lubricant and filter inventory and work with the Storeroom to maintain proper stock levels.

• Handle, store, and dispose of lubricants, filters, and absorbents in accordance with company procedures and environmental regulations.

Training & Support

• Train and guide Oilers on routes, lubricant selection, proper greasing technique, sampling, and safety procedures.

• Assist Millwrights and other maintenance personnel with repairs, down days, and scheduled shutdowns.

• Track and report lubrication program measures, including PM completion, oil analysis results, and lubrication-related failures.

General

• Follow all company safety rules, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), confined space, fall protection, and PPE requirements.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED.

• Three or more years of experience as a lube technician, oiler, or maintenance technician in a sawmill, manufacturing, or heavy industrial setting.

• Working knowledge of lubricant types, viscosity grades, additives, and grease compatibility.

• Working knowledge of bearings, gearboxes, chains, drives, and hydraulic systems.

• Experience with automatic or centralized lubrication systems.

• Experience collecting oil samples and reading basic oil analysis reports.

• Experience using a CMMS or computerized work order system, and basic computer programs, including Excel.

• Ability to train others and communicate clearly with Maintenance and Operations.

• Ability to work any shift, weekends, down days, holidays, and overtime as needed.

• ICML Machine Lubrication Technician (MLT I) certification or must obtain it within 12 months of hire as a condition of employment.

• Strict compliance with Lockout/Tagout and all safety rules.

• Must pass a pre-employment drug screen.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• ICML MLT I and/or Machinery Lubrication Analyst (MLA I) certification already held at hire.

• Experience building or managing a lubrication program or lube routes.

• Experience with contamination control equipment, including filter carts and desiccant breathers.

• Experience with infrared thermometers, ultrasound-assisted greasing, or other condition-monitoring tools.

• Forklift or other powered industrial truck certification.

• Sawmill or forest products industry experience.

Plain Dealing Lumber is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.