Assistant Engineer

**Assistant Engineer

Piscataway, NJ area

Salay Range $100,000-110,000

Direct Hire** Large food manufacturing company in New Jersey is currently seeking an Assistant Engineer to support the Chief Engineer in managing daily maintenance operations. This is a hands-on role focused on equipment reliability, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, parts inventory, food safety, and plant safety.

The ideal candidate has a strong mechanical background, experience maintaining automated production equipment, and the ability to organize maintenance activities while supporting production and sanitation operations.

Responsibilites Include

• Assist the Chief Engineer with daily maintenance operations, equipment reliability, and facility upkeep.
• Monitor preventive maintenance programs, work orders, and emergency repairs to ensure work is completed correctly and efficiently.
• Partner with Production to address equipment issues and minimize downtime.
• Coordinate with Sanitation to plan and execute maintenance activities during scheduled plant shutdowns.
• Schedule and prioritize maintenance work to maximize equipment performance and reliability.
• Maintain an organized parts inventory and assist with maintenance purchasing and contractor coordination.
• Support training and development programs for maintenance employees.
• Troubleshoot and repair mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems on automated production equipment.
• Ensure maintenance activities comply with food safety, GMP, and plant safety requirements.
• Support safety programs, employee training, and follow-up activities.
• Assist with equipment breakdowns and production floor calls as needed.
• Help organize, prioritize, and follow up on assigned maintenance tasks.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of experience as a Maintenance Mechanic in a food manufacturing environment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and knowledge of automated production equipment.
• Understanding of hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems.
• Electrical troubleshooting experience preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical and electrical drawings and schematics.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) and inventory systems.
• A willingness to learn, develop new skills, and take on additional responsibilities.
• Need to be flexible with shift.