Maintenance Technician Apprentice

WT Burnett Nonwovens • Statesville, NC

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Maintenance Technician Apprentice is an entry-level, structured learning role at WT Burnett Co.'s Statesville, NC manufacturing facility. Under direct supervision of experienced maintenance technicians and the Maintenance Supervisor, the apprentice develops the mechanical and electrical skills required to advance into a fully qualified Maintenance Technician Level 2. This position is designed for motivated individuals who are committed to building a long-term career in industrial maintenance. This is a registered, competency-based apprenticeship (RAPIDS Code 0311CB | ONET 49-9071.00) recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship. The program combines two parallel tracks: On-the-Job Learning (OJL): Hands-on skill development supervised by a designated mentor technician at WT Burnett. Related Technical Instruction (RTI): Coursework through Mitchell Community College's Advanced Integrated Manufacturing Systems (AIMS) Lab program. Acceptance into this position requires completion and signing of WT Burnett's formal Apprenticeship Agreement prior to beginning work. All competencies in the Work Process Schedule must be completed and signed off by both the apprentice and mentor during the program.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Basic understanding of electrical or mechanical concepts (obtained through school, hobby, or prior work).
• Willingness to learn CMMS software and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Desire to develop skills in troubleshooting electrical controls, power distribution, and mechanical systems.
• Strong curiosity, eagerness to learn, and a hands-on work ethic.
• Ability to take direction, ask questions, and apply feedback constructively.
• Good communication and teamwork skills for collaborating with a diverse maintenance team.
• Basic analytical thinking and problem-solving ability.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and perform tasks such as walking, bending, twisting, and climbing.
• Ability to work in a non-temperature-controlled manufacturing environment with exposure to dust, fumes, and high noise levels.
• Capability to work 12-hour shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, with overtime as needed.
• Ability to work around moving equipment such as forklifts and industrial sweepers in congested areas.

Nice To Haves

• Enrollment in or completion of a technical program (Electrical/Electronic Technology, Mechatronics, Industrial Technology, or related field) is strongly preferred.
• Some exposure to industrial, mechanical, or electrical work through coursework, trade school, or hands-on experience is a plus — no prior professional experience required.

Responsibilities

• Learn to perform scheduled preventive and corrective maintenance on machinery, electrical systems, and mechanical equipment — including engines, motors, pneumatic tools, conveyor systems, and production machinery.
• Assist experienced technicians with troubleshooting and develop the ability to independently diagnose and repair equipment malfunctions.
• Develop working knowledge of 3-phase electrical systems up to 480V.
• Learn to safely troubleshoot and diagnose malfunctions using testing instruments (multimeters, Megger, infrared thermometers) and technical documentation.
• Build familiarity with Siemens and Allen Bradley drives, AC motors, and variable frequency drives (VFDs).
• Assist with dismantling and repairing defective parts using hoists, cranes, and hand/power tools.
• Learn to safely operate machine shop equipment (lathes, end mills, grinders) to fabricate repair parts.
• Develop skills in welding, fabrication, and conduit bending and installation.
• Learn to read, interpret, and update maintenance documentation including schematics, wiring diagrams, and standard operating procedures.
• Develop the ability to independently create and revise technical documentation as proficiency grows.
• Learn to use the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) to log work orders, track equipment performance, and support root cause analysis.
• Develop consistent habits for timely and accurate CMMS entry.
• Assist with maintaining inventory of equipment, parts, and supplies.
• Learn proper storeroom procedures and ordering processes.
• Participate in lean manufacturing initiatives, quick kaizens, and BOM creation for equipment.
• Develop an improvement mindset aligned with WT Burnett's operational goals.
• Learn and consistently apply all WT Burnett safety procedures, rules, and regulations.
• Maintain a clean and safe working environment at all times.
• Develop awareness of environmental compliance requirements in a manufacturing setting.

Benefits

• Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required and provided.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED