Mechanical Technician - Automation & Mfg. Equipment
Date: Aug 7, 2026
Location: Mason, MI, US
Company: Dart Container
Are you a hands-on mechanical professional who enjoys working with automation systems, manufacturing equipment, and machine improvements? We're looking for Mechanical Technicians to support the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of automated production equipment used throughout our manufacturing operations.
In this role, you'll partner with Engineering, Production, and Maintenance teams to keep equipment running efficiently while supporting automation projects, equipment upgrades, and new technology implementation. You'll have opportunities to work on projects that directly impact safety, quality, productivity, and operational excellence.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
- Experience using hand tools, power tools, and machine shop equipment
- Computer proficiency with the ability to document work, troubleshooting activities, and equipment findings
- Ability to read and interpret production and equipment data within L2L
- Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and Windows experience
- Experience working with automated manufacturing equipment
- Welding experience (MIG/TIG) preferred
- Ability to communicate findings and provide detailed reports to engineering and production teams
What You'll Do...
Level II
- Assemble, install, test, operate, troubleshoot, and repair manufacturing and automation equipment.
- Diagnose mechanical issues and perform repairs on production equipment and tooling.
- Fabricate and modify machine components using machine shop equipment and hand tools.
- Support automation upgrades, machine improvements, and equipment reliability initiatives.
- Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, bills of materials, and technical documentation.
- Perform MIG and TIG welding repairs as needed.
- Use CAD software to support basic machine component design.
- Maintain equipment documentation, repair records, and test results.
- Track parts inventory and order replacement components.
- Document completed work and communicate troubleshooting findings using computer-based systems.
- Work closely with Engineering and Production teams to improve safety, quality, efficiency, and uptime.
- Mentor and support less experienced technicians.
What You'll Need...
- Associate degree in Mechanical Technology, Machining, or similar field with at least 1 year of related experience; OR high school diploma/GED with at least 2 years of related manufacturing, machining, maintenance, or installation experience.
- Experience troubleshooting industrial equipment.
- Experience working with hand tools, power tools, mills, lathes, grinders, and other machine shop equipment.
- Ability to read blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings.
- Experience with CAD software and GD&T preferred.
- Basic knowledge of pneumatics and electrical systems.
- Computer skills including Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and Windows applications.
- Experience using manufacturing reporting and production tracking systems is preferred.
Level III
What You'll Do...
Performs all Mechanical Technician II duties, plus:
- Troubleshoot and repair complex automated manufacturing equipment and systems.
- Lead advanced equipment improvement and automation projects.
- Design and develop machine components using CAD software.
- Identify and initiate Engineering Change Orders (ECOs).
- Participate in equipment development, validation, and process improvement initiatives.
- Apply advanced troubleshooting and root cause analysis techniques to improve equipment performance.
- Support quality and continuous improvement efforts using data-driven methodologies.
- Serve as a technical resource and mentor for technicians and project teams
What You'll Need...
- Associate degree in Mechanical Technology, Machining, or related field with at least 3 years of experience; or high school diploma/GED with at least 5 years of related experience.
- Advanced troubleshooting experience with automated manufacturing equipment.
- Experience leading equipment upgrades, machine improvements, or technical projects.
- Knowledge of continuous improvement and quality tools such as SPC, 5S, FMEA, Root Cause Analysis, and DOE.
- Strong computer skills with the ability to analyze equipment data and communicate findings effectively.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and provide technical leadership.
#LI-KS1
Overview: Dart makes everyday products that give people the freedom to enjoy the food & drinks they love, wherever they are. From to-go containers and dinnerware to tamper-evident food packaging and even the red SOLO cup, Dart products have been keeping people on the go and having fun for 65 years. We’re a family-owned, family-focused company of 12,000 employees united by a shared set of values and dedicated to providing exceptional customer service. Headquartered in Mason, MI, with 30 locations in three countries, we’re proud of our ability to innovate, manufacture and lead the way with each new generation of quality products.
Benefits: Dart Container full-time employees enjoy great benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) with company matching contributions, paid vacation, paid holidays, short-term disability, tuition assistance, product discounts and more.
Dart Container is a drug-free workplace. Candidates are subject to a drug test (excluding THC*/marijuana/cannabis) and background check at the time of offer.
*THC testing ONLY when such testing is required by law.
Dart Container is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all candidates for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
https://www.dartcontainer.com/eeoaa/
If you have a disability and need an accommodation to access this website or for the application process, you should call Dart at (800) 545-3278 Ext 3370 or email us at ADArequests@dart.biz. Relay calls can be made by dialing 711 or the relay number for your state.
If you experience difficulty applying online, you may call (800) 545-3278 Ext 3390 or email us at applicationassistance@dart.biz for assistance.
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Testing, Machinist, Maintenance, MIG Welding, Business Process, Technology, Manufacturing, Management