Job Description

About Tanbark

Established in 2021, Tanbark Molded Fiber Products is dedicated to delivering sustainable alternatives to plastic packaging. We specialize in producing Type 3 Molded Fiber, an environmentally friendly replacement for rigid single-use plastic products. Our mission is to provide access to planet-friendly, purpose-driven products by pushing the limits of molded fiber design.

Position Summary

The Maintenance Technician plays a critical role in ensuring the performance and reliability of Tanbark's manufacturing operations. This position requires a high level of responsibility, technical skill, and strong communication.

The role involves troubleshooting, diagnosing, and repairing advanced production equipment -- including Type 3 molded fiber formers, water filtration and recirculation systems, stock preparation equipment, and automated finishing equipment such as die cutters. The maintenance technician develops and executes a preventive maintenance schedule aligned with production demands to minimize disruptions and optimize equipment availability.

Clear documentation and effective shift-to-shift communication are essential to ensure smooth handoffs and equipment continuity. The maintenance technician coordinates closely with other departments and follows established escalation procedures when needed.

Work Hours

Monday - Friday, 6:00am - 2:00pm Occasional Saturdays and on-call work from time-to-time.

Key Responsibilities

Equipment Maintenance & Troubleshooting

Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and control system issues on all production equipment. Use advanced troubleshooting techniques to reduce equipment downtime and ensure production continuity. Support new equipment installation, calibration, and integration (including upcoming automated die cutters). Conduct in-depth diagnostics using electrical meters, PLC interface tools, and schematics. Maintain, inspect, and repair water filtration systems, stock prep systems, and vacuum and whitewater loops.

Preventive & Predictive Maintenance

Develop, maintain, and execute a Preventive Maintenance (PM) schedule that aligns with production plans to minimize unplanned downtime and optimize equipment availability. Coordinate with production leadership to plan and communicate maintenance activities around shift schedules and production windows. Perform routine maintenance on formers, presses, pumps, filtration systems, and auxiliary equipment. Clean and maintain vacuum systems, seal-water tanks, inline filters, vats/pulpers, and tooling components. Maintain and update PM checklists, tool status logs, and inspection records. Support implementation of predictive maintenance strategies using condition-based monitoring and trend data.

Documentation & Communication

Accurately document all maintenance activity, including root cause and corrective actions. Maintain records of parts usage and communicate reorder needs to the operations leadership. Communicate shift updates, equipment status, and estimated repair timelines clearly to production, leadership, and the following shift team. Support safety and compliance through proper documentation, housekeeping, and procedural adherence.

Collaboration & Continuous Improvement

Work cross-functionally with Production Technicians and Leads to troubleshoot and correct complex problems. Participate in Continuous Improvement projects to enhance equipment uptime and reduce reactive maintenance. Share technical knowledge and mentor junior team members when needed.

Core Values & Competencies

At Tanbark, we don't just create sustainable products--we create a culture of innovation and responsibility. We support our mission through our

A.C.T.S.--our core values that guide how we approach work, solve problems, and contribute to team and company goals.

Adaptability

- Embraces change, adjusts to shifting priorities, and responds effectively to unexpected equipment issues.

Accountability

- Takes ownership of maintenance quality, documentation, and follow-through on repairs.

Curiosity

- Seeks out better ways to maintain and improve equipment by asking questions and challenging assumptions.

Collaboration

- Works constructively with cross-functional teams to solve problems and support shared goals.

Trustworthiness

- Demonstrates reliability through consistent, safe work practices and honest communication.

Transparency

- Communicates clearly about repair timelines, equipment risks, and shift updates to ensure alignment.

Safety

- Follows all safety protocols and proactively identifies and addresses hazards.

Sustainability

- Extends equipment life and reduces downtime through preventive care and continuous improvement.

Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

Required Qualifications

Minimum 5 years' experience in mechanical/electrical maintenance of industrial process or manufacturing equipment. Experience working with Allen-Bradley/ControlLogix/FactoryTalk systems or strong mechanical/millwright skillset. HS Diploma/GED; Associate's degree in mechanical, electrical, or industrial maintenance (or equivalent hands-on experience). Proven experience maintaining process systems (pumps, filtration, piping, stock prep) and troubleshooting complex integrated equipment. Ability to maintain accurate electronic maintenance records. Proficient with hand tools, multimeters, power tools, and diagnostic equipment. Ability to read and interpret equipment manuals, electrical schematics, and piping diagrams. Strong communication and organizational skills; track record of effective collaboration in team environment. Proven ability to work independently during off-hours and make sound decisions with minimal direct supervision. Comfortable working in a dynamic, startup manufacturing environment and adapting to evolving processes.

Preferred Qualifications

Prior experience in molded fiber, pulp and paper, or similar wet-process manufacturing environments. Experience assisting with new equipment installations, machine commissioning, and controls integration. Strong understanding of safety practices in industrial settings (LOTO, confined space, arc flash, etc.). Continuous Improvement or Lean Manufacturing training or experience.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

This role requires regular standing, walking, climbing, kneeling, and use of hands for tools and equipment. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and occasionally heavier loads. Good vision and color perception are necessary. Work may involve exposure to moving parts, fumes, chemicals, electrical systems, or loud noise. PPE (such as ear protection) may be required in some areas. Reasonable accommodations are available as needed.

Employment Disclaimer

Tanbark Molded Fiber Products, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, drug free workplace, and complies with all applicable ADA regulations.

This job description outlines essential duties but is not exhaustive. Employees may be assigned additional job-related tasks as directed.

*ATTN. RECRUITERS and HEADHUNTERS: Please DO NOT contact our team members regarding this job opening.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $32.00 - $36.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Flexible spending account Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Parental leave Retirement plan Vision insurance
Work Location: In person