Maintenance Technician II in Belleville, Illinois at Calico Cottage Confections, LLC

Since 1964, we have been the world’s largest supplier of fudge making equipment, ingredients, and marketing expertise. If you ever go on vacation (and we hope you do!), you’ve probably seen and maybe purchased our fudge. Since our fudge is always made fresh in each retail store (and sold under the retailer’s own name), we are the best kept secret in retail confectionary. With a strong presence in numerous countries and a vast network of retailers, including well-known establishments in the tourism sector, we are committed to delivering outstanding products and services.

Our company culture fosters growth and embodies the "Hungry, Humble, Smart" philosophy. We seek individuals who are driven, self-motivated, always eager to learn and do more, and committed to working effectively as part of a team. We value a strong work ethic and a positive and vibrant work environment.

The Maintenance Technician II is responsible for ensuring the reliability, safety, and performance of production and facility equipment in a food manufacturing environment. This role supports efficient equipment operation, minimizes unplanned downtime, and maintains safe and compliant operations through hands-on maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair.

The Maintenance Technician II works closely with Production, Sanitation, Engineering, and other teams to maintain equipment reliability and support continuous improvement. Success in this role is measured by equipment uptime, maintenance quality, safety performance, and adherence to food manufacturing standards.

• Troubleshoot, repair, and adjust mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.

• Diagnose and repair bearings, chains, gearboxes, motors, conveyors, pumps, valves, and related components.

• Respond to equipment breakdowns and restore equipment to safe operating condition.

• Read and interpret equipment manuals, schematics, and technical drawings.

• Assist with the installation, startup, and testing of new or modified equipment.

• Perform regular walk through's in the Production Departments.

Expected Result

• Equipment is returned to service safely and efficiently.

• Repeat equipment failures are minimized.

• Repairs meet established quality and safety standards.

• Execute scheduled preventive maintenance tasks using the CMMS.

• Inspect, lubricate, adjust, and calibrate machinery.

• Accurately document completed maintenance work and observations.

• Identify recurring equipment issues and recommend improvements.

• Participate in basic predictive maintenance activities, including visual, temperature, and vibration inspections.

Expected Result

• Preventive maintenance tasks are completed on schedule.

• Equipment failures and unplanned downtime are reduced.

• Maintenance plans continuously improve based on equipment performance.

• Perform light welding, cutting, and basic fabrication.

• Fabricate and install guards, brackets, and supports in accordance with safety standards.

• Assist with basic electrical troubleshooting involving sensors, switches, relays, and related components.

• Identify mechanical causes of control or automation issues.

• Use maintenance tools and materials safely and correctly.

Expected Result

• Equipment repairs and modifications are safe, durable, and effective.

• Technical solutions support operational needs and equipment reliability.

• Follow OSHA, NFPA 70E, Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), and company safety policies and procedures.

• Adhere to GMP, HACCP, and SQF requirements.

• Maintain clean and organized work areas and properly maintained tools.

• Participate in safety meetings, audits, and required training.

• Immediately report unsafe conditions, near misses, and food safety risks.

Expected Result

• Safety and food safety standards are consistently maintained.

• Preventable safety risks are minimized.

• Maintenance activities support strong audit and compliance performance.

• Partner with Production, Sanitation, and Engineering teams to address equipment and operational needs.

• Support equipment reliability and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Participate in root cause analysis and corrective action activities.

• Share technical knowledge and maintenance best practices with the maintenance team.

Expected Result

• Equipment reliability and operational effectiveness improve through collaboration, problem-solving, and continuous improvement.

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• 3–5 years of industrial maintenance experience, preferably in a food, beverage, or CPG manufacturing environment.

• Mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and basic electrical troubleshooting skills.

• Ability to read and interpret mechanical and electrical schematics.

• Welding and basic fabrication experience.

• Experience using a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).

• Strong problem-solving skills with a safety-focused and detail-oriented approach.

• Technical or trade certification.

• Additional experience in food, beverage, or CPG manufacturing environments.

• Reliable, self-motivated, and team-oriented.

• Willingness to work overtime, weekends, or varied shifts as operational needs require.

• Competitive Salary

• Paid Time Off Plan and Paid Holidays

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

• Company Paid Long Term Disability Insurance

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for Health and/or Dependent Care Expenses

• Length of Service Awards

• Employee Assistance Program

• 401(k) Plan

• Life/AD&D Insurance

• Birthday & Holiday Celebrations held to foster fun and team interaction.

• Employee Appreciation Events with great food, fun, and team building for all team members and their families.

• Employee Referral Program financially rewards employees for referring qualified new hires to Calico.

And, of course…Plenty of the Best Fudge You’ve Ever Tasted!

Want to make your world a little sweeter? Come join the Calico Cottage Confections team!

Job Type: Full-time/Hourly

Reports To: Maintenance Manager

Department: Operations

Work Location: Belleville, Illinois

Schedule: Monday - Friday; 6:00 AM - 2:30 PM

Travel: None

Calico Cottage Confections, LLC. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.