Maintenance Assistant - Entry Level

Job Title: Maintenance Assistant

Shift: Days

Location: Valparaiso, IN

Reports to: Maintenance Manager

Job Type: Full Time, Non-Exempt

The Maintenance Assistant supports the maintenance department by ensuring that plastic injection molding machines, auxiliary equipment, and facility systems remain in safe and reliable working order. This role assists with preventative maintenance, basic repairs, troubleshooting, and upkeep of production and building equipment to minimize downtime and keep operations running smoothly.

• Assist Maintenance Manager with preventative maintenance (PM) on injection molding machines, grinders, and all other auxiliary equipment
• Support basic mechanical and electrical repairs under the direction of the Maintenance Manager
• Organize and maintain spare parts and tools in the maintenance area in a safe and orderly manner
• Conduct routine facility and equipment maintenance tasks and repairs such as:
  • Cleaning, lubrication, and filter changes
  • Checking hoses, fittings, and lines for leaks or wear
  • Monitoring fluid levels and pressures
  • Replacing light fixtures, belts, or minor components
• Conduct minor repairs and maintenance upkeep of exterior building surfaces and structures
• Follow all safety policies, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), PPE requirements, and company‑specific safety procedures
• Maintain sidewalks by sweeping, blowing, shoveling, salting, and removing snow or debris along with other seasonal tasks, as necessary
• Provide support during equipment breakdowns to minimize production downtime
• Perform additional duties as assigned by Maintenance Manager

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Highly efficient in taking initiative with balancing demands, prioritizing work, and switching between tasks
• Basic knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems
• Skilled in safe use of power tools, hand tools, and measuring equipment
• Strong problem solving skills and willingness to learn
• Reliable, safety‑oriented, and detail‑oriented
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast‑paced environment
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, climb ladders, and work in standing position for extended period of time
• Basic ability to read, interpret and work from blueprints, drawings, or verbal instructions for a variety of assigned tasks

High school diploma or equivalent, required

Proven general mechanical, electrical and hydraulic systems experience

Sound knowledge of general carpentry and other basic facility repairs

Must be able to stand, push, pull, overhead reach, bend, twist, crouch and lift periodically throughout the shift, as well as crawl into confined or awkward spaces in proximity to loud equipment. Must be able to frequently lift, push or pull 15-35 pounds and lift up to 50 pounds or more and ascend and descend ladders. Ability to stand or sit for long periods of time throughout a shift with the ability to seize, hold, grasp, turn, hold, and operate tools and parts with hands and fingers.

The ability to perform all work on‑site at Thorgren's Valparaiso plant independently. An individual will perform these job duties in a manufacturing environment with moderate to loud noise levels within a small area. Potential exposure to varying allergens on a daily basis. This position works indoors and outdoors, which may increase exposure to different levels of environmental factors, such as heat and cold, depending upon season.

PPE must be worn properly at all times while performing job duties to mitigate potential risks.

Vacation Days (after one year of employment)

401K

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life and Disability Insurance

Paid Holidays

Weekly Pay

Thorgren Tool and Molding Co., Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.