Lifeway Foods (NASDAQ: LWAY), which has been recognized as one of Forbes’ Best Small Companies, is America’s leading supplier of the probiotic beverage known as Kefir. In addition to its line of drinkable Kefir, the company also produces cheese, drinkable yogurt, and a ProBugs line of Kefir for kids. Lifeway’s tart and tangy fermented dairy products are sold across the United States, Mexico, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. Summary The Maintenance & Technical Support Coordinator supports plant maintenance through parts and vendor coordination, equipment troubleshooting assistance, and timely internal and external communication. This position works with Maintenance, Production, Purchasing, and outside service providers to support equipment reliability, parts availability, and timely resolution of maintenance needs. This is an individual contributor role with no direct supervisory responsibilities. Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist with identifying and sourcing equipment parts; obtain quotes, submit purchase requests through approved processes, and track orders, deliveries, returns, and repair status.
- Maintain accurate spare parts inventory records, organize parts storage, and help establish reorder levels for critical components with the maintenance team.
- Coordinate vendor and contractor communication, service visits, repair estimates, and follow-up activities within approved budgets and purchasing authority.
- Assist maintenance technicians and equipment vendors with troubleshooting by gathering symptoms, equipment information, fault codes, and service history; escalate issues requiring specialized expertise.
- Perform basic equipment checks and troubleshooting only within assigned training and authorization; coordinate qualified technical support for more complex repairs.
- Serve as a point of contact among Maintenance, Production, Purchasing, and external vendors; communicate parts availability, service schedules, issue status, and next steps.
- Help coordinate planned maintenance and vendor service to minimize disruption to production; follow up on assigned work orders and outstanding action items.
- Maintain equipment manuals, parts lists, vendor contacts, service reports, warranty information, and maintenance system records.
- Follow applicable safety procedures, lockout/tagout requirements, food safety practices, and contractor access requirements; promptly report hazards and equipment concerns.
- Conduct behavior in compliance with Lifeway Employee Policy.
- Perform additional duties as assigned.
Qualification and Education Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required; technical coursework or certification in industrial maintenance, mechanical systems, or a related field preferred.
- Two or more years of relevant experience in maintenance support, parts coordination, industrial equipment service, or a related manufacturing role preferred.
- Working knowledge of mechanical components, equipment parts identification, and basic troubleshooting; food or beverage manufacturing experience preferred.
- Ability to read equipment manuals, parts diagrams, and service documentation and communicate technical information accurately.
- Experience coordinating vendors, purchase requests, inventory records, and service follow-up; familiarity with ERP or computerized maintenance management systems preferred.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and accurate recordkeeping; strong organization, follow-through, and internal and external communication skills.
- Ability to work in a manufacturing environment, access equipment areas, and handle parts as needed, with or without reasonable accommodation; task-specific physical requirements to be confirmed.
Why Lifeway?
- Explore exciting career growth opportunities in a thriving company
- Enjoy 9 paid holidays annually to rest and recharge
- Access comprehensive benefits, including Medical, Vision, Dental, Life, and Disability coverage - and more!
- Choose from flexible FSA and HSA options to meet your financial and healthcare needs
- Benefit from our Employee Assistance Program, offering support for new parents, legal and financial advice, mental health resources, and much more
- Plan for your future with our 401(k) Profit Sharing contribution match
Lifeway Foods, Inc is a growing Chicago-based beverage manufacturer with 40 years of experience. We are an industry leader in the production of high-quality Kefir. We are an equal-opportunity employer and offer a competitive benefits package. Visit us at www.lifewaykefir.com.