Echo Lake Foods is a leading manufacturer of ready-to-eat egg products and breakfast foods, including waffles, pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, omelets, and egg patties, serving major retail, foodservice, and national restaurant customers across the United States. Founded in 1941 and headquartered in Burlington, Wisconsin, the company operates multiple production facilities throughout the Midwest and has built a strong reputation for quality, innovation, and customer partnerships.
In 2025, Echo Lake Foods was acquired by Cal-Maine Foods, Inc., the largest producer and distributor of fresh shell eggs in the United States, marking an exciting new chapter of growth. This partnership strengthens our resources, expands our capabilities, and supports continued investment in our people, facilities, and products. Creating new opportunities for employees to grow their careers within a stable and expanding organization.
The Maintenance Apprentice supports the maintenance team in ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient operation of food production equipment and facilities. This entry-level role is designed to develop technical maintenance skills through hands-on training, mentoring, and classroom or on-the-job learning, while maintaining strict food safety, quality, and safety standards.
Hours: 6:00 AM - 6:30 PM
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with routine preventive maintenance on production machinery, utilities, and facility equipment
- Support troubleshooting and repair of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems under supervision
- Learn to read and interpret basic mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, and manuals
- Perform basic tasks such as lubrication, parts replacement, adjustments, and equipment cleaning
- Help document maintenance activities, work orders, and parts usage in the maintenance management system
- Follow all food safety, quality, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs)
- Comply with company safety policies, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), PPE, and safe work practices
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of maintenance areas and tools (5S principles)
- Participate in training programs, safety meetings, and continuous improvement activities
- Support emergency maintenance calls as needed
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED
- Enrollment in or willingness to participate in a formal maintenance apprenticeship or technical training program
- Basic mechanical aptitude and strong desire to learn industrial maintenance skills
- Ability to follow instructions and work well in a team environment
- Basic math and problem-solving skills
- Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English
Preferred Qualifications
- Coursework or background in industrial maintenance, mechanics, electricity, or mechatronics
- Prior experience in manufacturing, food production, or a technical trade (internship, co-op, or entry-level role)
- Familiarity with basic hand and power tools
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and climb for extended periods
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs with or without reasonable accommodation
- Willingness to work in a food manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, temperature changes, and moving machinery
- Flexibility to work various shifts, including weekends or overtime, as required
What We Offer
- Paid apprenticeship with structured training and mentorship
- Opportunities for career advancement into Maintenance Technician roles
- Competitive wages and benefits package (health, dental, vision, 401(k)
- Hands-on experience in a food production manufacturing environment
We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, military service, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.