Maintenance Apprentice

Description

The Maintenance Apprentice is responsible for learning and supporting maintenance activities within an automotive stamping environment. This role assists skilled Maintenance Technicians in troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining production equipment, including stamping presses, automation systems, tooling support equipment, and facility systems. The Maintenance Apprentice participates in a structured training program—both classroom-based and hands-on—to develop the technical skills required to become a fully qualified Maintenance Technician. The role supports plant reliability, safety, and production goals through proper equipment care, preventive maintenance, and continuous improvement.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Assist Maintenance Technicians in troubleshooting mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and automation issues on stamping presses and auxiliary equipment.

• Participate in die change support, press readiness activities, and routine equipment checks.

• Learn to perform preventive maintenance tasks such as lubrication, filter changes, inspections, and basic adjustments.

• Support repair and replacement of machine components including sensors, valves, switches, motors, cylinders, bearings, and guarding.

• Observe and comply with all lockout/tagout (LOTO), machine guarding, and plant safety procedures.

• Maintain tools, equipment, and work areas in clean and organized condition.

• Assist in maintaining accurate maintenance logs, PM records, and documentation.

• Learn to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and machine drawings.

• Support installation, setup, and testing of new equipment or modifications under supervision.

• Work with senior maintenance staff and supervisors to understand stamping process requirements and equipment performance expectations.

• Participate in training programs provided by the company and/or apprenticeship partner institutions.

• Inspect equipment for safety hazards and report issues to the Maintenance Supervisor or Lead Technician.

• Assist in basic facility maintenance tasks, including lighting, plumbing, HVAC filters, and building repairs.

• Demonstrate a commitment to skill development, attendance, and safe work practices.

• Ability to take direction, accept coaching, and respond positively to performance feedback.

• Employee is responsible for ensuring all environmental practices are in line with job scope / position.  Examples include but not limited to: proper waste disposal practices, reporting of spills, non-compliance to permit, and addressing any improper practices.

• Assumes additional duties as assigned, which may fall outside the primary scope of the role.

ISO / ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (EMS) RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Demonstrate knowledge of the environmental processes and requirements applicable to their role.

Requirements

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Enrollment in, or willingness to enroll in, a registered maintenance apprenticeship program.
• Prior experience in manufacturing or mechanical trades preferred, but not required.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and desire to pursue a skilled trades career.
• Previous exposure to stamping, machining, or industrial equipment is a plus.

GENERAL SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:

• Strong communication skills to work effectively with maintenance staff, operators, supervisors, and cross-functional teams.
• Good organizational skills and attention to detail for maintaining accurate records and work habits.
• Ability to work on multiple tasks under supervision while developing trade skills.
• Must be self-motivated, eager to learn, and capable of following instructions closely.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-accountability automotive environment.

SOFTWARE/COMPUTER SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Willingness to learn maintenance software systems (CMMS), machine interfaces, and data-entry tools.
• Ability to learn new software platforms quickly.
• Accurate keyboarding and documentation skills.

DISCLAIMER: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Management maintains the right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

ENVIRONMENTAL & PHYSICAL FACTORS: The physical demands and work environment described below represent the activities and surroundings of the position(s). Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Work will be in both an office and warehouse/manufacturing facility. Contact with the departmental personnel, and vendors. Frequent sitting, standing, walking and occasional bending. May lift, carry, pull / push, and reach for supplies and on occasion lifting (up to 50 lbs.) while performing various aspects of the job. Position requires the capability of managing stress effectively; work is fast paced and can be demanding. Work requires organizing, prioritizing; accuracy and attention to detail.

HOURS / SPECIAL CONDITIONS: Monday-Friday; present to fulfill job duties & meet operational demands/support; schedule may vary depending on plant operational needs thus flexibility is required which could include long days, occasional evening & weekends; regular and predictable attendance is an essential function of this position; position may require travel to meetings, conferences, workshops or other facilities.