Maintenance Specialist

About Us:

Valent BioSciences LLC is a worldwide leader in the research, development, manufacturing, and commercialization of biorational products for the agriculture, public health, and forestry markets. We have more than 60 years of experience bringing biorational products to market, and our products are used in sustainable operations in 95 countries around the world. Biorational products maximize plant quality, productivity, and sustainability. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Chemical, Valent BioSciences LLC operates with the Sumitomo Spirit mindset, which means to benefit both self and others, recognizing that private and public interests are one and the same. It’s about contributing to society, as well as making a profit.

Mycorrhizal Applications LLC (MA) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Valent BioSciences LLC and we are dedicated to sustainability by providing the agriculture, horticulture, landscaping, and forestry industries with efficient and effective microbial-based biorational solutions. As the world’s leading manufacturer and supplier of mycorrhizal soil inoculants, MA researches, produces, and markets mycorrhizal fungi which accelerate plant performance by greatly increasing the surface absorbing area of roots, producing a healthier root system.

Description of Job: The Maintenance Specialist performs repairs and preventive maintenance activities in production and office areas to keep site business and production operating at maximum availability and efficiency. They are responsible for facilitating all maintenance, improvements and code/ safety requirements of the grounds, vehicles, buildings, machinery, and equipment in the most cost effective, safe, and sustainable way possible. This individual is also responsible for creating and maintaining accurate maintenance records. They are also expected to maintain a clean and organized work area, maintenance area, and parts storage.

Principal Responsibilities:

• Performs scheduled and unscheduled minor maintenance and repairs on buildings, equipment, utilities, and plant systems.
• Performs routine and emergency custodial duties.
• Performs preventive maintenance procedures on building, production, and site mechanical and electrical equipment.
• Performs and documents inspections according to established schedules including documenting preventive maintenance and/or other appropriate maintenance routines.
• Participates in and executes continuous improvement of maintenance programs and production facilities.
• Properly stores, handles, and disposes solvents, oils, and other hazardous materials.
• Completes and manages written and computer- based records, including maintenance and standard operating procedures as directed and scheduled.
• Determines, specifies, and orders parts, supplies, and materials from external vendors as necessary.
• Assists various members of the management team in developing key programs and initiatives related to safety and maintenance.
• Schedules and coordinates licensed professionals for major repairs or construction needs.
• Maintains, obtains, understands, and uses blueprints, drawings, O&M Manuals, and other technical documentation for plant and building equipment.
• Coordinates and organizes landscape contractor for general grounds maintenance.
• Works with Fleet Program Manager and assigned drivers to ensure all vehicle maintenance is performed and documented properly on a regular basis. This also includes trailer maintenance and forklift maintenance schedule.
• Manages cross-department maintenance requests. Effectively prioritizes and responds to multiple requests and responsibilities.
• Sets up and troubleshoots irrigation system for in vivo crop and trial areas.

Experience:

• 2-5 years’ related experience in industrial maintenance.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and basic troubleshooting skills required.
• Skilled use of hand and power tools is required.
• Understanding of applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Ability to follow instructions from supervisors and other maintenance staff members.
• Prior forklift operating experience is required, certification is preferred.
• A valid drivers’ license to operate a motor vehicle in the State of Oregon is required.
• Lock out/tag out program experience required.
• Knowledge of maintenance, repair, and operation of pneumatic systems, mechanical power transmission equipment, conveyors, vibrating equipment, HVAC, and dust filtration equipment preferred.
• Machining, welding, and basic carpentry skills are preferred.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., climb ladders, bend, stoop, reach, and crawl into awkward spaces.
• Effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, including group presentations and individual interactions.
• Ability to work effectively with all levels of staff and management.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Demonstrated computer literacy with Microsoft Office suite, database programs, work order programs, and presentation technology.
• Ability to use critical thinking to solve complex problems and make sound decisions.

Education:

• High School Diploma
• Technical certifications in maintenance programs preferred

Travel: 0-5%

Mycorrhizal Applications LLC and Valent BioSciences LLC are Equal Opportunity employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation and/or identity, national origin, citizenship, immigration status, disabilities, or protected veteran status.