Machine Maintenance Technician II - Weekday Night

To apply for the Machine Maintenance Technician II role at Protolabs, it is important to have at least 2 years of general machine maintenance experience. A strong mechanical and electrical aptitude is crucial, along with reliability and a solid work ethic. Candidates should also possess a basic technical understanding to use software applications for file management. An associate's degree in a technical field or an equivalent experience can also enhance your application.

The work schedule for the Machine Maintenance Technician II at Protolabs is set for weekday nights, specifically from Tuesday to Friday, starting from 6:00 pm and ending at 4:00 am. This schedule provides the opportunity to work during quieter hours, which can be beneficial for focusing on complex machine maintenance tasks.

Protolabs offers an extensive array of benefits for the Machine Maintenance Technician II position, including various health insurance options, Flexible Spending Accounts, and a Health Savings Account. You’ll also enjoy dental and vision insurance, paid caregiver leave, a solid 401(k) plan with company matching, at least 3 weeks of PTO, and many other perks aimed at supporting your well-being and life outside work.

Protolabs is deeply committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace, as illustrated by our welcoming policy for all applicants, regardless of their backgrounds. We consistently foster a culture that values varied perspectives, encouraging applicants for the Machine Maintenance Technician II role to bring their authentic selves into the workplace, thus enhancing team creativity and effectiveness.

A typical day for a Machine Maintenance Technician II at Protolabs involves troubleshooting and repairing equipment, performing preventive maintenance, and engaging with team members to ensure tools and machines are functioning to their highest potential. You will be actively involved in keeping our manufacturing processes running smoothly while always adhering to safety and quality standards.

Essential skills for success in the Machine Maintenance Technician II position at Protolabs include mechanical and electrical troubleshooting abilities, excellent problem-solving capabilities, and a keen attention to detail. Additionally, good communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, fast-paced environment are also crucial for this role.

While prior experience in a manufacturing setting is beneficial, it is not strictly necessary for becoming a Machine Maintenance Technician II at Protolabs. What’s more important is having a solid foundation in machine maintenance and the eagerness to learn and grow in the role. Candidates with technical education and a willingness to dive into hands-on work are encouraged to apply.

When answering this question, highlight specific examples of your past experiences with machine maintenance. Discuss the types of machines you have worked on, the maintenance tasks you performed, and any troubleshooting processes you navigated. Emphasize your ability to follow safety protocols and how you handled any challenging situations.

To tackle this question, explain your approach to prioritization. Discuss how you assess equipment needs, the urgency of repairs, and any impact on production schedules. Share your strategies for staying organized, such as using checklists or computerized maintenance systems to keep track of tasks.

It’s crucial to demonstrate your commitment to safety in your answer. Discuss the personal protective equipment (PPE) you always use, the importance of de-energizing machines before maintenance, and how you ensure that you follow company safety protocols rigorously.

Discuss your problem-solving skills and your ability to remain calm under pressure. Explain a specific instance where you faced unexpected equipment failure, the steps you took to diagnose the issue, and how you communicated with your team during the situation.

Be upfront about the maintenance management software you have used in past roles. If you’re familiar with a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS), explain your experience with data entry, maintenance scheduling, and reporting. A willingness to learn new systems is also a great addition.

Tell your interviewers about a noteworthy repair that showcased your skills. Detail the problem, your diagnosis process, the repairs you performed, and the outcome. Highlight the lessons learned and how it improved your understanding of similar future tasks.

Discuss the specific practices you employ to maintain quality in machine maintenance. Mention methods like adhering to preventive schedules, performing thorough inspections, and continually educating yourself on best practices in the industry to ensure your work is both efficient and high-quality.

Share your genuine passion for the role! Talk about your enjoyment in troubleshooting, the satisfaction of seeing machines running smoothly, and the challenge of continuous learning in technology and machinery. This is a chance to express your enthusiasm authentically.

Provide insights from your past experiences, highlighting how you communicate and collaborate with team members. Share examples of how effective teamwork led to successful outcomes, emphasizing your respect for colleagues’ expertise and the value of diverse perspectives.

This is an opportunity to demonstrate your ambition. Discuss where you see yourself in the next few years—like becoming a lead technician, gaining specialized skills, or exploring management opportunities. Ensure these goals align with Protolabs' culture and values, highlighting your commitment to growth.