Maintenance Technician

We are proud to announce the launch of Volkswagen Group's largest cell factory, PowerCo, in St. Thomas. This is more than just a job – it's a unique opportunity to shape the future of sustainable energy. Join us as we ramp up operations and help build a world-class company.

At PowerCo, we believe in fostering an environment where ambition meets collaboration, and where flexibility and creativity thrive. You'll be part of a diverse, talented team that is shaping the future of battery production. You'll have the chance to advance your career while working alongside passionate colleagues who share a vision of making a lasting impact on the world.

Are you ready to be part of something exciting? Power up your career with us

We are looking for a Maintenance Technician – Mechanical who wants to CELLebrate in a fast-paced and fast-changing environment. As part of the ramp-up team of our new Canadian location, you will report to the Maintenance Manager. The Maintenance Technician – Mechanical will be responsible for ensuring the operational readiness and reliability of manufacturing equipment, systems, and infrastructure. They will perform preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance while ensuring safety. (focus on Mechanical aspects). 

This position is required to be fully onsite and eventually will transition to a shift based work model

• Operates independently on complex tasks and may mentor junior technicians with complex situations

• Conducts complex root cause analysis for equipment failures and implement corrective actions.

• Trains others, leads small projects and coordinates contractors

• Ensure the manufacturing site operates at optimal efficiency through regular maintenance activities.

• Implement long-term solutions for equipment reliability and performance.

• Develop maintenance schedules, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and safety protocols.

• Collaborate with engineers, project teams, and contractors during the setup of equipment and systems.

• Assist with equipment installation, alignment, and initial testing.

• Review and familiarize themselves with operation manuals, schematics, and technical drawings.

• Perform equipment verification and ensure compliance with technical specifics

• Conduct pre-operational tests to confirm system functionality and safety compliance.

• Train operators on new equipment and software, including computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).

• Identify and stock critical spare parts and establish an inventory system.

• Monitor and optimize equipment during the early stages of production to ensure it meets operational targets.

• Identify and resolve bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and early-stage equipment failures.

• Provide immediate technical support for troubleshooting and repairs.

• Conduct detailed inspections of equipment during initial production cycles to address mechanical, electrical, or software issues.

• Assist in fine-tuning equipment settings and calibrations to meet production quality standards.

• Execute preventive maintenance schedules to reduce downtime.

• Document and address recurring issues for continuous improvement.

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance production efficiency and reduce waste.

• Perform scheduled preventive and predictive maintenance to minimize unplanned downtime.

• Ensure compliance with safety standards and maintain accurate records in the CMMS.

• Continuously review and refine maintenance strategies based on equipment performance data.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to plan and execute upgrades or modifications to equipment.

• Act as a troubleshooter for automation equipment, including 6-axis robots (Fanuc/Kuka), programmable logic controllers, human-machine interfaces, presses, conveying equipment, and pneumatic and hydraulic actuators

• Troubleshooting and implementing software changes to OMRON, SIEMENS and other platforms of PLC's

• Capability with programming vision systems such as Cognex, Rviz and ETC.

• Monitor critical assets for early signs of failure and take proactive corrective actions to avoid extended downtime and production delays.

• Drive improvements in work order effectiveness, completion rates, backlog reduction, and establish prioritized work orders with enhanced methods and procedures, contributing to measurable improvements in maintenance-related downtime and associated costs;

• Set up and operate welding equipment including arc, MIG, TIG, plasma and gas.

• Hoisting and lifting equipment such as cranes, jacks and forklifts commonly used to position large machines or parts

• Conduct basic troubleshooting of PLC systems for custom-built automated machines.

• Secondary vocational school or above education.

• Proven experience (5 years) in an industrial Maintenance role and/or Commissioning or Installation, preferably within a lithium-ion battery manufacturing environment. Chemical Industry, Pharmaceutical, or Components assembly.

• Strong knowledge of automated systems, including Motors, pumps, piping, mechanical repairs and alignments.

• Familiar in using CMMS/EAM systems for maintenance tracking and reporting.

• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to diagnose and repair complex automation issues.

• Effective communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a team environment.

• Commitment to safety and adherence to all relevant safety protocols and guidelines.

• Good written and oral communication skills (English).

• Able to read part processing drawings and understand mechanical processing technology.

• Familiar with production processes and knowledge of related equipment on production lines.

• Knowledge of shop tools (i.e. milling machines, lathes, grinders, drilling machines, welding)

• Familiar with common measuring instruments and can control quality.

• Ability to work according to tight schedules and timelines and have the ability to work independently as well as in a team environment.

• Ability to teach/mentor new technicians spreading knowledge.

• Availability for international trip and training of up to 3 months.

• Experience with PLCs, robotics, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems, with a preference for Siemens S7 (desirable).

• Experience with equipment installation, commissioning and service is desirable.

• We offer a competitive and attractive remuneration that reflect your skills, experience, and contributions.

• Vacation Allowance: We offer our employees competitive paid time off.

• Opportunities for development.

• Opportunities to participate in exciting company events that give back to the community.

Competitive employer paid benefits and overall compensation package with extended health care, dental, vision and mental health support.

• Pension and Retirement Savings: We contribute to a Registered Pension Plan and matching contribution to a retirement savings plan.

Please note that we appreciate the interest of all candidates, however only those under consideration will be contacted.

We believe that the best results are created in a diverse and inclusive environment.

Therefore, all qualified applications will be considered for employment regardless of age, race, religion, gender (identity), sexual orientation, national origin or disability.

PowerCo Canada Inc. is committed to providing accommodations for people with disabilities including during the application process. If you require an accommodation because of a disability, we will work with you to determine what reasonable accommodation may be available to meet your needs whether it be as an applicant or an employee. Applicants need to make their needs known in advance. If you are selected for an interview and require an accommodation, you are encouraged to advise the Recruiter who will consult with you to determine an appropriate and reasonable accommodation.