Maintenance Tech I

Maintenance Technician I

Kite's Santa Monica site is seeking Maintenance Technician I to support facilities and engineering operations by performing repairs, installations, troubleshooting, and documentation for equipment used in clinical manufacturing, R&D research laboratories, utilities, HVAC systems, and core and shell facilities. Maintenance Technician II is expected to complete all assigned work in compliance with cGMP, Kite Global standards, and site-specific procedures.

This position is 2nd shift / M-F 2:00 pm- 10:30 pm

Responsibilities:

• Attend SQDIP meetings and complete assigned work orders.
• Accurately document all executed work in accordance with cGMP regulations and work order management system requirements.
• Troubleshoot and maintain electro-mechanical systems, pneumatic systems, air handling units, vacuum pumps, air compressors, cooling towers, and other utility support equipment.
• Support the maintenance of LN2 cryogenic tanks, incubators, and laboratory freezers.
• Understand, monitor, and work within EMS/BMS platforms.
• Troubleshoot industrial electrical systems, including motor controls and motor installations.
• Lead and support small continuous improvement projects.
• Interpret and act on data from predictive technologies such as vibration analysis and infrared thermography.
• Work across various shifts and provide after-hours, weekend, and holiday support as required by management.
• Receive and respond to remote notifications via mobile devices.
• Partner with planners and schedulers to ensure appropriate scheduling, effective work plans, and accurate spare parts management.
• Notify the scheduler and supervisor of any work that cannot be completed within the assigned timeframe and coordinate rescheduling with timely communication to Planning, Scheduling, and Management teams.
• Attend and actively participate in all required meetings.
• Participate in Kite safety programs, including the development and execution of JHAs, LOTO permits, Live Work Permits, and Hot Work Permits, and promote use of the safety incident reporting tools.
• Escort, oversee, and coordinate activities performed by outside contractors.
• Perform all maintenance activities in compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, including FDA, OSHA, EPA, AQMD, and others.
• Maintain GxPLearn and GLearn training at a 100% completion rate.
• Ensure all assigned areas remain audit-ready and actively participate in addressing audit findings.
• Support the Engineering group in achieving project milestones.
• Collaborate with other Facilities & Engineering functional teams to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable facility operations.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree
• Associate's degree with 2 years of experience, or
• High school diploma with 3 years of experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Expert knowledge of pneumatic, mechanical, and automation systems.
• Strong customer service skills with effective written and verbal communication.
• Experience interpreting, writing, and maintaining maintenance documentation.
• 5+ years of experience working in ISO-classified environments within the pharmaceutical industry.
• Experience using work management systems, preferably Maximo.
• Experience with building and equipment monitoring systems (EMS/BMS); Desigo CC / Siemens experience preferred.
• Proficiency in reviewing and interpreting technical drawings and schematics.
• Advanced computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience collaborating with and coordinating external technical resources and vendors.
• Ability to plan and schedule work activities in coordination with operations to minimize impact to production.

The salary range for this position is: $74,715.00 - $96,690.00. Kite considers a variety of factors when determining base compensation, including experience, qualifications, and geographic location. These considerations mean actual compensation will vary. This position may also be eligible for a discretionary annual bonus, discretionary stock-based long-term incentives (eligibility may vary based on role), paid time off, and a benefits package. Benefits include company-sponsored medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans*.

* Eligible employees may participate in benefit plans, subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable plans.