PLC Maintenance Manager

Xyant Technology, established in 1995, is a premier federal systems integrator that provides technical and business solutions in information technology, systems engineering, scientific support and management consulting.

Job Title: PLC Maintenance Manager

Location:
Franklin Park, IL (Onsite)

Duration:
Full Time / Direct Hire

Direct Client Need

Position Summary:

• The Maintenance Manager is a hands-on leadership role in a fast-paced metal-forming manufacturing environment.
• This position requires a working leader who balances technical, floor-level troubleshooting and equipment repairs alongside technicians with managerial duties like prioritizing tasks, optimizing preventive maintenance, and developing team skills.
• You will collaborate closely with Production, Engineering, and Quality teams to reduce unplanned downtime and maximize machine reliability.

Responsibilities:

• Hands-On Troubleshooting: Diagnose and repair complex mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and PLC-controlled equipment (roll-forming lines, servo presses, conveyors, feeds).
• Team Leadership: Supervise, schedule, and coach the maintenance team across shifts; run daily handoffs and drive technician accountability.
• Preventive & Predictive Maintenance: Oversee and improve the PM program using the CMMS/eMaint system, ensuring critical safety devices and machines are routinely inspected.
• Downtime Reduction: Lead root-cause investigations for recurring failures and implement permanent engineering or mechanical fixes.
• Parts & Contractor Management: Organize critical spare parts inventory and manage outside vendors or contractors.
• Safety & Compliance: Enforce strict lockout/tagout (LOTO) protocols and ensure all work meets plant safety regulations.
• Reporting: Track and report key metrics like unplanned downtime, PM completion rates, and project statuses to plant management.

• Experience: 5+ years of industrial maintenance experience in a manufacturing environment, including formal leadership or supervisory experience.
• Technical Expertise: Advanced hands-on skills in diagnosing industrial machinery, automation components, sensors, motors, and hydraulic/pneumatic systems.
• Schematics: Strong ability to read and interpret electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic diagrams.
• System Knowledge: Familiarity with PLC/HMI troubleshooting (Allen-Bradley preferred) and computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).
• Soft Skills: Exceptional prioritization and communication skills, with the ability to remain calm and organized under pressure during critical production breakdowns.
• Work Style: Willingness to work directly on the shop floor, handle physical requirements of an industrial environment, and respond to emergency calls outside normal hours.
• Industry Specifics (Preferred): Experience with roll-forming, stamping presses, and coil-processing equipment. Bilingual English/Spanish skills are a plus.
• Required: Equivalent practical experience with strong technical credentials.
• Preferred: Technical degree, industrial maintenance certification, or advanced electrical/automation training.