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
