Lead Technician - Mechanical Equipment Installation

Job Description:

The Lead Equipment Installation Mechanical Technician is a senior-level technical role responsible for leading and executing complex mechanical equipment installations. This position provides on-site leadership, technical expertise, and coordination for installation projects, ensuring work is completed safely, on schedule, and in compliance with engineering specifications, quality standards, and customer requirements. The Lead Technician serves as a subject matter expert and mentor to junior technicians.

• This position is in the Engineering Project and is focused on capacity additions and the associated line installations & debug from a mechanical perspective.

• Lead and/or participate on manufacturing engineering projects and lead/support teams for the purposes of capacity installations, equipment debug, and preparing line/associated parts for Operations Receivership.

• As a leading team member, provide advanced mechanical discipline to proactively identify technical problems through root cause understanding coupled with robust industrialized solutions relative to line debug and installs.

• Leverage knowledge of mechanical and electrical engineering, machining & designing processes to improve performance of equipment/manufacturing process.

• Lead/support the development and execution of project plans to deliver timely error-free mechanical support for multi-line equipment installations.

• Experienced with working alongside vendors and suppliers to resolve technical issues to protect Product, timing, and cost metrics.

• Ability to work, collaborate, cooperate, and utilize Best Practice across various functional groups on a daily basis to accomplish goals.

• Interpret and work from detailed engineering drawings, schematics, blueprints, and installation manuals.

• Perform advanced mechanical tasks including rigging, leveling, precision alignment, torqueing, piping, and mechanical integration.

• Troubleshoot and resolve installation issues, equipment malfunctions, and mechanical interferences.

• Verify installations meet OEM specifications, safety codes, and quality standards.

• Act as on-site Lead Technician, directing daily activities of installation crews and subcontractors.

• Assign tasks, monitor progress, and ensure efficient use of labor and resources.

• Mentor and train junior technicians, providing hands-on guidance and technical instruction.

• Serve as the primary technical point of contact between field teams, engineers, project managers, and customers.

• Conduct inspections and quality checks throughout the installation process.

• Complete installation reports, checklists, punch lists, and as-built documentation.

• Support equipment testing, startup, and customer acceptance activities.

• Assist with installation planning, sequencing, and scheduling.

• Coordinate material handling, tools, and equipment needed for installations.

• Support continuous improvement initiatives and best practices in installation methods.

• Maintain safe work practices and inform others of hazardous conditions or personal practices as expressed on project team.

• Manage and lead installation and debugging activities to meet milestone & timeline objectives for successful capacity adds.

• Design & implement mechanical solutions and process changes to improve capability of manufacturing equipment.

• Lead in or solve mechanical and process issues through data analysis, experience, and collaboration with subject matter experts.

• Manage spare part identification and storeroom entry as recommended by suppliers or peer engineers, noting available spares within (2)-plant footprint.

• Develop and update engineering and operations documentation.

• Support training for operations workforce regarding equipment or operations changes.

• Perform advanced troubleshooting, diagnosis, and repair of mechanical systems, equipment, and machinery (e.g., pumps, motors, conveyors, hydraulics, pneumatics, etc.).

• Align, test, and calibrate mechanical systems after installation.

• Diagnose complex mechanical failures and recommend effective solutions.

• Identify opportunities to improve equipment reliability, efficiency, and safety.

• Collaborate with other departments to implement process improvements.

• Associate’s degree.

• High School degree will be considered with significant hands-on experience.

• 3+ years’ experience in new equipment installations in a manufacturing environment. Start-up experience is a plus.

• Experience in fast-paced changing environments with multiple priorities.

• Strong knowledge of mechanical systems, industrial equipment, and installation techniques.

• Proven ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical documentation.

• Experience leading crews in industrial, manufacturing, semiconductor, energy, or similar environments.

• Ability to learn new technology and processes quickly.

• Strong technical fundamentals with mechanical engineering skills.

• Ability to multitask and prioritize work on an independent basis in a fast-paced project installation manufacturing environment.

• Proficient with PC software including Microsoft Office Suite.

• Strong communication skills.

• Expertise in mechanical systems such as hydraulics, pneumatics, bearings, gear systems, and conveyor systems.

• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and schematics.

• Proficiency in using hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic equipment.

• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and critical-thinking skills.

• Knowledge of safety regulations and practices in an industrial setting.

• Basic computer skills for maintaining records and using CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems).

• Mechatronics trades highly desired.

• Relevant mechanical or industrial certifications (e.g., Millwright, HVAC, or Welding) are a plus.

• OSHA or other safety certifications may be required.

• Hands-on experience in commercial manufacturing equipment.

• Project leadership/management experience (including milestone management and financial ownership).

• Experience in vendor/supplier management on-site/off-site.

• Experience with CAD.

• SAP, Maximo, Maintenance Leadership.

• Detail oriented and able to perform with limited supervision.

• Leadership experience in technical project management.

• Ability to work and effectively collaborate within a team.

• Ability to allocate/supervise resources to accomplish aggressive project milestones & timeline within specification and costs.

• Able to shift tasks quickly.

• Able to prioritize and multitask.

• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

• Project locations will range from Newton NC and Hickory North Carolina.

• 40 hours per week (overtime expected).

• Due to the project timing, overtime and periodic off-hours coverage may be necessary to successfully complete workload and interact with other team personnel.