Principal Maintenance & Automation Technician

ATS•Chicago, IL

16h•Onsite

About The Position

Own the toughest problems on the floor. This role involves troubleshooting critical equipment failures, restoring production, and implementing advanced maintenance strategies. The technician will combine expertise in controls, predictive maintenance, and electro-mechanical skills to elevate asset reliability and performance. Key aspects include leading continuous improvement initiatives and mentoring junior technicians.

Requirements

High school diploma/GED required.
Associate degree with a technical concentration plus 7+ years of related industry experience; or 10+ years of direct industry experience.
Strength in predictive technologies (vibration analysis or laser interferometer operation), precision alignment, and process equipment maintenance.
Deep knowledge of electrical, mechanical, fluid power, and control systems; able to analyze problems, propose alternatives, and perform repairs.
Proficient with hand and specialized tools.
Willingness to travel as needed.
Technical focus areas: Mechanical troubleshooting, 120/208/240/480 VAC power systems, Electrical troubleshooting and repair, Pneumatics diagnostics, Multi-discipline maintenance and repair, Hydraulic systems and components, Equipment diagnostics and root-cause troubleshooting, Mechanical systems and component repair.

Nice To Haves

Six Sigma experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Deliver senior-level corrective and preventive maintenance across electrical and mechanical systems.
Engineer and implement improvements to complex equipment and systems.
Program, troubleshoot, and analyze sophisticated control systems, resolving issues across software, hardware, and configuration layers.
Deploy predictive tools—infrared thermography, ultrasonic testing, power quality analysis, laser interferometry, ball bar checks, and vibration analysis—to assess condition and take proactive action.
Champion CI: lead events, document processes, and quantify results and cost savings using recognized CI methodologies.
Identify and procure parts and supplies; recommend alternative components and engineered fixes that drive reliability.
Execute work independently to industry standards; uphold 5S and maintain orderly, safe work areas.
Operate shop equipment (lathe, drill press, grinder, and related metalworking tools) to make/repair parts; perform welding when required.
Research emerging maintenance methods, tools, and systems; recommend adoption across ATS sites and update technical documentation.
Provide analysis and inputs for equipment purchases, repair/rebuild proposals, and innovation-driven savings opportunities.
Maintain complete records; analyze CMMS data to guide strategy and prevent recurrence.
Author technical details for sales quotations; handle T&M assignments as needed.
Coach junior technicians and take on project manager duties when assigned.
Pursue continuous learning through OJT and self-study; rigorously follow safety policies and exercise situational awareness to identify and correct hazards.