Electromechanical Technician

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.

At Tanbark, we don’t just create sustainable products—we create a culture of innovation and responsibility. Our ACTS values guide us in everything we do.

• Adaptable & Accountable – We anticipate challenges, embrace new ideas, and take ownership of our work.
• Curious & Collaborative – We thrive on learning, problem-solving, and working together to achieve shared success.
• Trust & Transparency – We communicate openly, assume good intentions, and build strong relationships.
• Safe & Sustainable – We prioritize well-being, ethical conduct, and environmental responsibility.

If you’re seeking a collaborative and supportive environment and are excited to join a growing manufacturing company advancing sustainable materials, this opportunity is for you.

Position Summary

The Electromechanical Technician supports the performance and reliability of Tanbark’s automated manufacturing operations, serving as a primary electrical and controls resource on their shift. Responsibilities include troubleshooting and repairing production equipment and systems, with a focus on motors, drives, servos, sensors, PLCs, HMIs, and industrial networks; performing electrical and mechanical preventive maintenance; and supporting the installation and commissioning of new equipment.

The technician maintains accurate work orders, control program backups, and electrical drawings; communicates effectively across shifts; and coordinates with mechanical maintenance, production, and outside vendors and integrators to ensure equipment reliability and continuity.

Key Responsibilities

Electrical & Equipment Troubleshooting

• Diagnose and repair complex electrical, controls, instrumentation, and electromechanical issues across automated production equipment, including motors, variable frequency drives (VFDs), servo systems, sensors, PLC I/O, and industrial networks such as EtherNet/IP.
• Troubleshoot mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems on molded fiber formers, presses, automated die cutters, pumps, and auxiliary equipment.
• Perform advanced diagnostics using multimeters, insulation resistance testers, PLC programming and diagnostic software, drive fault logs, and electrical schematics.
• Apply systematic troubleshooting and root cause analysis to eliminate recurring failures, reduce downtime, and improve equipment reliability.
• Maintain and troubleshoot electrical and controls components of water filtration, stock preparation, vacuum, and whitewater systems.

PLCs, Controls & Industrial Automation

• Troubleshoot and support Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLCs, FactoryTalk HMIs, VFDs, and servo systems.
• Make authorized PLC logic, HMI, and drive parameter changes through established change management procedures, including testing, documentation, and backups.
• Maintain current backups of PLC programs, HMI applications, and drive parameters.
• Install, wire, and terminate control panels, field devices, motors, and power distribution components in accordance with applicable NEC and NFPA 79 requirements and Tanbark standards.
• Support installation, electrical integration, commissioning, and startup of new automated equipment in coordination with equipment vendors and system integrators.

Preventive, Predictive & Calibration Maintenance

• Perform electrical, controls, and mechanical preventive maintenance to improve equipment availability and minimize unplanned downtime.
• Inspect electrical panels, connections, contactors, and drives; perform motor testing, including insulation resistance and current draw measurements.
• Calibrate sensors, instrumentation, and process control devices for flow, level, pressure, temperature, and other process variables.
• Support predictive maintenance using condition-based monitoring, PLC data, and trend analysis to identify developing equipment issues.
• Coordinate maintenance activities with Production leadership to minimize disruption and align work with production schedules.

Documentation & Shift Communication

• Document maintenance work, troubleshooting findings, root causes, and corrective actions accurately in work orders and maintenance records.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date electrical schematics, panel drawings, PLC I/O lists, device lists, and as-built documentation.
• Maintain controls and electrical spare parts records and communicate inventory and reorder needs to Operations leadership.
• Communicate equipment status, repair progress, estimated completion times, and outstanding issues during shift handoffs.
• Maintain required electrical safety documentation, arc flash labels, and panel identification; follow established safety procedures and housekeeping standards.

Collaboration & Continuous Improvement

• Collaborate with mechanical maintenance, Production Technicians, and Production Leads to diagnose and resolve complex equipment and process issues.
• Lead or contribute to continuous improvement projects involving controls, automation, and process data to improve equipment uptime and reduce reactive maintenance.
• Identify and implement opportunities to improve equipment efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and optimize automated processes.
• Share technical knowledge and mentor team members in electrical troubleshooting, controls, and safe electrical work practices.

Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills & Abilities)

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in electrical, controls, or electromechanical maintenance of automated industrial manufacturing equipment.
• Hands-on experience troubleshooting Allen-Bradley ControlLogix/CompactLogix PLCs using Studio 5000 and FactoryTalk HMIs, including online diagnostics and program modifications.
• Experience installing, configuring, and troubleshooting VFDs, servo drives, motors, sensors, and industrial communication networks.
• Associate degree in electrical, electromechanical, or industrial automation technology, or equivalent hands-on experience.
• Working knowledge of NFPA 70E and the NEC, with the ability to perform assigned electrical work safely on systems up to 480V in accordance with applicable safety requirements.
• Mechanical aptitude and hands-on experience with pneumatic and hydraulic systems, pumps, and power transmission components.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, ladder logic, P&IDs, and equipment manuals.
• Proficiency with electrical testing equipment, including multimeters and insulation resistance testers, as well as hand and power tools and diagnostic software.
• Ability to maintain accurate electronic maintenance records, control program backups, and electrical drawings.
• Strong communication and organizational skills, with the ability to work independently and collaborate effectively across shifts and departments.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex equipment issues, prioritize repairs, and make sound decisions with minimal direct supervision, including during off-hours.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and evolving processes in a growing manufacturing environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in molded fiber, pulp and paper, or similar wet-process manufacturing environments.
• Experience with automated equipment commissioning, controls integration, and new equipment startups.
• Experience with motion control, servo systems, or robotics.
• Industrial or journeyman electrician license, where applicable.
• Infrared thermography or other predictive maintenance training or certification.
• 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.

Pay: $33.00 - $37.00 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
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person