Lead Reliability and Controls Technician

ATS•Chicago, IL

About The Position

Step into a day where uptime depends on your expertise Your shift begins by scanning CMMS insights and overnight alerts, prioritizing where your skills in break-fix, preventive care, and controls will restore flow. You’ll move from programming and diagnosing complex control systems to hands-on electro‑mechanical and fluid power work, using predictive tools like infrared thermography, ultrasonics, power quality analyzers, laser interferometers, ball bars, and vibration analysis to stay ahead of failures. Along the way, you champion 5S, coach teammates, and spearhead CI initiatives that measurably cut costs and improve reliability. What you’ll do Execute expert-level corrective and preventive maintenance across mechanical and electrical systems; design and implement equipment and system improvements aligned to your specialty. Program, troubleshoot, and analyze advanced control systems, resolving software, hardware, and configuration issues impacting production. Apply predictive diagnostics (infrared thermography, ultrasonic testing, power quality analysis, laser interferometry, ball bar checks, vibration analysis) to assess equipment condition and drive proactive maintenance actions. Lead and participate in continuous improvement activities using formal CI tools and methodology; document processes, outcomes, and cost savings. Source parts, supplies, and repair items; propose engineered alternatives that enhance reliability and performance. Independently perform maintenance in accordance with industry standards and site procedures; uphold 5S and housekeeping expectations. Set up and run machining operations (lathe, drill press, grinder, and other metalworking tools) to fabricate/repair parts; perform welding as needed. Research emerging methods, tools, and system innovations and recommend adoption across ATS sites; update technical documentation accordingly. Provide input for cost analysis tied to new equipment, repair/rebuild proposals, savings opportunities, and innovative solutions. Maintain accurate records; review CMMS histories and analyze trends to inform maintenance strategy. Contribute technical content for sales quotations and support T&M duties when required. Train and coach less experienced technicians; assume project management responsibilities as assigned. Pursue on‑the-job learning and technical self‑study for career growth; follow all safety policies and maintain strong situational awareness to identify and correct unsafe conditions or behaviors. What you bring High school diploma/GED required. Associate degree with a technical focus and 7+ years of relevant industry experience; or 10+ years of experience in the specific industry. Hands-on proficiency with predictive technologies, including vibration analysis or laser interferometer operation, precision alignment, and maintenance of related process equipment. Solid understanding of electrical, mechanical, fluid power, and control systems; capable of analyzing issues, generating alternatives, and executing repairs. Comfort with hand tools and specialized tools; willingness to travel as needed. Six Sigma exposure/experience preferred. Technical strengths we value Mechanical troubleshooting 120/208/240/480V systems Electrical troubleshooting and repair Pneumatics troubleshooting Maintenance and repair across disciplines Hydraulic systems and components Equipment diagnostics and root-cause analysis Mechanical systems and component repair Work environment and physical demands Expect frequent standing and walking; regular use of hands and fingers; reaching; climbing and balancing at heights with ladders or lifts; and stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling in confined spaces. Communication (talking/hearing) is routine, with occasional periods of seated work. You may occasionally lift and move items over 50 pounds. Close and color vision are regularly required. Work can include occasional exposure to outdoor weather and risk of electrical shock. The factory setting is typically very loud, with possible exposure to hazardous materials and greasy or slippery floors.

Requirements

High school diploma/GED required.
Associate degree with a technical focus and 7+ years of relevant industry experience; or 10+ years of experience in the specific industry.
Hands-on proficiency with predictive technologies, including vibration analysis or laser interferometer operation, precision alignment, and maintenance of related process equipment.
Solid understanding of electrical, mechanical, fluid power, and control systems; capable of analyzing issues, generating alternatives, and executing repairs.
Comfort with hand tools and specialized tools; willingness to travel as needed.
Mechanical troubleshooting 120/208/240/480V systems
Electrical troubleshooting and repair
Pneumatics troubleshooting
Maintenance and repair across disciplines
Hydraulic systems and components
Equipment diagnostics and root-cause analysis
Mechanical systems and component repair

Nice To Haves

Six Sigma exposure/experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Execute expert-level corrective and preventive maintenance across mechanical and electrical systems; design and implement equipment and system improvements aligned to your specialty.
Program, troubleshoot, and analyze advanced control systems, resolving software, hardware, and configuration issues impacting production.
Apply predictive diagnostics (infrared thermography, ultrasonic testing, power quality analysis, laser interferometry, ball bar checks, vibration analysis) to assess equipment condition and drive proactive maintenance actions.
Lead and participate in continuous improvement activities using formal CI tools and methodology; document processes, outcomes, and cost savings.
Source parts, supplies, and repair items; propose engineered alternatives that enhance reliability and performance.
Independently perform maintenance in accordance with industry standards and site procedures; uphold 5S and housekeeping expectations.
Set up and run machining operations (lathe, drill press, grinder, and other metalworking tools) to fabricate/repair parts; perform welding as needed.
Research emerging methods, tools, and system innovations and recommend adoption across ATS sites; update technical documentation accordingly.
Provide input for cost analysis tied to new equipment, repair/rebuild proposals, savings opportunities, and innovative solutions.
Maintain accurate records; review CMMS histories and analyze trends to inform maintenance strategy.
Contribute technical content for sales quotations and support T&M duties when required.
Train and coach less experienced technicians; assume project management responsibilities as assigned.
Pursue on‑the-job learning and technical self‑study for career growth; follow all safety policies and maintain strong situational awareness to identify and correct unsafe conditions or behaviors.