Maintenance Apprentice Technician

Job Description

Job Description

The Maintenance Apprentice Technician supports the plant maintenance team by performing preventive and corrective maintenance on automotive manufacturing equipment and facilities. This is a structured apprenticeship position designed to develop skilled trades professionals through hands-on training, mentorship from journeyman technicians, and formal coursework. The apprentice will rotate through electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic disciplines over the course of the program, building toward full journeyman certification.

Preventive & Corrective Maintenance

• Assist journeyman technicians in performing scheduled preventive maintenance (PM) on CNC machinery, robotic welding cells, conveyors, stamping presses, and assembly line equipment.
• Troubleshoot and repair mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic system failures under direct supervision.
• Inspect and replace wear components including bearings, belts, seals, filters, and lubrication fittings.
• Support line-restart activities to minimize unplanned downtime and maintain production schedules.

Electrical & Controls

• Assist with troubleshooting of 120V/240V/480V electrical systems, motor drives (VFDs), and control panels.
• Work with PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens) under supervision to diagnose faults and make minor program adjustments.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, ladder logic diagrams, and wiring diagrams.

Mechanical Systems

• Perform alignment, installation, and removal of mechanical components using hand and power tools.
• Assist with hydraulic and pneumatic system maintenance including pressure testing, hose replacement, and valve adjustments.
• Support rigging and millwright activities as directed.

Documentation & Compliance

• Complete work orders and maintenance logs accurately in the CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System).
• Follow all lockout/tagout (LOTO), confined space, and hot work procedures without exception.
• Participate in safety inspections, toolbox talks, and required safety training.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area in compliance with 5S standards.

Learning & Development

• Attend and actively participate in apprenticeship classroom instruction (typically one day per week).
• Complete required apprenticeship hours and competency evaluations on schedule.
• Shadow and assist journeyman/master technicians across all maintenance disciplines.
• Seek feedback and demonstrate continuous improvement in technical skills.

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Enrollment in, or eligibility for, a registered apprenticeship program (JATC, UAW-affiliated, or equivalent).
• Basic understanding of electrical, mechanical, or related trades concepts.
• Ability to read basic blueprints, schematics, or technical drawings.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work rotating shifts including weekends and overtime as required by production needs.
• Must pass a pre-employment physical, drug screen, and background check.

The physical demands listed below are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position.

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs unassisted; team lift for heavier loads.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, crouching, and reaching throughout the shift.
• Ability to work in confined spaces, at heights, and in environments with elevated noise levels.
• Must be able to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, steel-toed boots, gloves, and hearing protection.

You should be proficient in:

• Electrical Troubleshooting
• Equipment Diagnostics & Troubleshooting
• Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)
• Equipment Installation & Wiring
• Equipment Repair & Maintenance
• Automotive Manufacturing Systems
• Machine Safety Inspections
• headliner manufacturing
• polybond
• thermobond
• waterjets

Machines & technologies you'll use:

• Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)
• Conveyor Systems