Maintenance Apprentice

NASL is seeking a Maintenance Apprentice who supports the reliability and safety of production by assisting with preventive maintenance, basic repairs, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement projects across multiple departments and facilities. This entry-level role combines hands-on work with structured training to build foundational skills in mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems. 

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, 

• Perform Preventative Maintenance tasks (lubrication, inspections, adjustments, filter changes) per schedule and document work in the CMMS. 
• Assist technicians in diagnosing and repairing mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic issues to minimize downtime. 
• Follow Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), machine guarding, and hazard communication procedures at all times; maintain clean, safe work areas (5S). 
• Routinely check belts, bearings, chains, knives, cutters, dust collection connections, and guards; replace consumable materials/parts. 
• Use a multimeter to verify voltage, continuity, and fuses; replace cord ends, sensors, and limit switches as needed. 
• Inspect air lines, regulators, valves, cylinders, and hydraulic hoses; assist in replacing seals and tightening fittings. 
• Help maintain compressors, dust collection systems, lighting, HVAC, and emergency systems. 
• Log work orders, parts used, and downtime causes; update equipment history and contribute to root-cause notes. 
• Assist with squaring, alignment, machine offsets, and simple calibration checks. 
• Installation and movement of equipment within the facility. 
• Shadow senior technicians on complex repairs. 
• Source and purchase replacement equipment, tools, and parts when directed. 
• Work independently to complete list of projects in timely fashion. 
• Maintain clear communication with senior technicians and operators. 

Education, Experience, and Skills 

• High school diploma or GED. 
• Basic mechanical aptitude; able to use hand/power tools and read a tape, calipers, and micrometers. 
• Fundamental electrical knowledge (AC/DC basics, reading simple schematics and basic PLC inputs/outputs). 
• Two years of manufacturing environment experience. 
• Willingness to work safely and follow procedures. 
• Technical diploma/certificate (Industrial Maintenance, Mechatronics, Electrical, HVAC, or similar) preferred.
• Welding experience.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment (wood products/cabinetry a plus). 
• Familiarity with 5S, LOTO, dust collection fundamentals. 
• Troubleshooting mindset; curious and systematic, solution oriented. 
• Clear communication with operators, engineers, and leadership. 
• Time management—able to prioritize PMs vs. urgent repairs. 
• Teamwork and coachability; accepts feedback and applies learning. 
• Computer literacy (ERP, email, basic spreadsheets). 
• Ability to uphold company Core Values of Integrity, Solutions, Service and Quality as part of the NASL Team. 
• Ability to work in the following environment: Industrial manufacturing floor with moderate to high noise and heat levels.