Chastain & Associates LLC

Compensation

Full Description

Lead Operations & Maintenance Specialist  Chicago, IL 60620 $45 - $55 an hour - Full-time Full job description Operations and Maintenance Specialist (Hands-On) — Food Waste Anaerobic Digester Shifts:  3:00 PM – 11:30 PM or 11:00 PM – 7:30 AM (Mon–Fri) On-call rotation for emergencies  Company Overview   Chastain’s client transforms packaged food waste into renewable energy and nutrient-rich compost, creating local jobs and healthier neighborhoods. Their award-winning campus operates one of the region’s only integrated depackaging and anaerobic digestion systems. The Role This is not a desk job. You’ll be the go-to O&M Specialist on the floor -- installing, aligning, troubleshooting, and improving equipment. If you love solving tough problems with your hands (and a multimeter), you’ll thrive here. What You’ll Do * Install, align, and maintain pumps, tanks, screens, conveyors, filtration, gearboxes, motors, and utilities. * Diagnose & repair mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical (24V–480V) systems; coordinate with licensed electricians as needed. * Work with industrial controls: PLCs (e.g., Allen-Bradley), VFDs, HMI/SCADA, instrumentation, sensors, and control logic. * Perform preventive/predictive maintenance using a CMMS; keep accurate work logs and parts usage. * Weld, fabricate, and rig (mild/stainless); safely operate hoists/cranes/forklifts to move heavy equipment. * Drive root-cause analysis and continuous improvement to reduce downtime and boost throughput. * Enforce LOTO, Confined Space, Hot Work, NFPA 70E, OSHA 1910 and site PPE requirements. What You Bring * 3–10 years hands-on experience in industrial maintenance, millwrighting, or mechanical engineering (manufacturing, waste processing, food/beverage, chemicals, or similar). * Strong mechanical fundamentals plus working knowledge of 24V–480V equipment and VFDs/controls. * Proficiency in welding/fabrication/rigging, reading prints/schematics/P&IDs, and using precision tools. * Experience with CMMS, parts kitting, and maintenance planning. * Proven people leadership: setting priorities, training, and holding a team to high standards. * Valid driver’s license; ability to lift 50+ lbs and work at heights/in confined spaces (with permits). * Degree paths: Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering (preferred); technical/vocational training strongly valued. Nice to Have * Experience with anaerobic digestion, pumps/centrifuges, depackaging systems, or process plant. * Allen-Bradley programming, basic ladder logic edits, instrumentation calibration. * Forklift/crane/signalperson certifications; CWI or pressure vessel welding experience. Schedule & Working Conditions * Primary shift 3:00 PM – 11:30 PM or 11:00 PM – 7:30 AM (Mon–Fri) On-call rotation for emergencies; occasional OT/weekends/holidays during turnarounds or breakdowns. * Industrial environment: noise, odors, heat, dust, chemicals; rigorous adherence to safety protocols. * On-call rotation for urgent equipment issues. _______________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ How to Apply Send your resume and brief cover note to humanresources@chastainengineers.com with subject “O&M Specialist Opportunity”. Equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can contribute their fullest potential each day. Candidates from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Keywords: Mechanical Engineer, Maintenance Technician, Millwright, Industrial Maintenance, Preventive Maintenance, Welding, Fabrication, Electrical (24V–480V), PLC, VFD, CMMS, Rigging, OSHA 1910, NFPA 70E, LOTO, Confined Space. Job Type: Full-time Pay: $45.00 - $55.00 per hour Benefits: * Dental insurance * Health insurance * Paid time off * Vision insurance Work Location: In person