Setup / Changeover Mechanic

The Setup / Changeover Mechanic keeps our pasta lines running. This person works with the production supervisor to set up lines, inspect equipment before start-up, ensure the correct dies are installed and in good working condition, and make machine adjustments during production to keep product in spec and downtime low.

This is a hands-on role on the production floor. You'll report to the Maintenance Manager and support production by working closely with supervisors, leads, and line operators to get each run started right and keep it running.

Key Responsibilities

·         Setup and Changeover

·         Set up production lines with the production supervisor at the start of each run, including mixers, extruders, sheeters, cutters, dryers, and packaging machines.

·         Inspect equipment before start-up to confirm it is clean, safe, and ready to run.

·         Make sure the correct dies are installed for each product and are in proper working condition.

·         Perform product changeovers quickly and accurately to reduce downtime between runs.

·         Remove, clean, inspect, and install extruder dies, cutting blades, and other change parts.

·         Verify the first product off the line meets specs before handing the line to operators.

·         Support production throughout the shift, stepping in where needed to keep the line running.

Machine and Die Adjustments

·         Adjust speeds, pressures, temperatures, cut lengths, and timing during production to keep product in spec.

·         Monitor equipment and product quality throughout the shift and make corrections as needed.

·         Inspect dies and tooling for wear or damage and report replacement needs.

Troubleshooting and Repair

·         Diagnose and fix mechanical problems, clear jams, and get lines back up fast.

·         Make mechanical repairs and replace worn parts such as belts, bearings, chains, seals, and sprockets.

·         Work with maintenance on larger repairs and report equipment issues to management.

Preventive Maintenance

·         Perform scheduled preventive maintenance and routine lubrication on production equipment.

·         Keep tools, change parts, and dies organized, clean, and ready for the next changeover.

Food Safety and Workplace Safety

·         Follow GMPs, HACCP, and company food safety policies, including tool control and food-grade lubricant use.

·         Clean and sanitize change parts and equipment after maintenance before returning to production.

·         Follow Cal/OSHA and company safety rules, including lockout/tagout on every repair and changeover.

·         Report accidents, injuries, near misses, and food safety concerns to management right away.

Records and Communication

·         Complete setup sheets, changeover logs, downtime records, and maintenance records.

·         Share shift updates with production, maintenance, and quality.

Qualifications

Required

·         2+ years of mechanical experience in food manufacturing or another high-speed production setting.

·         Past experience as a mixer operator.

·         Past experience in a bakery or pasta production environment.

·         Hands-on experience with equipment setups, changeovers, and in-production machine adjustments.

·         Ability to troubleshoot and repair mechanical, pneumatic, and basic electrical problems.

·         Comfortable using hand tools, power tools, and measuring tools such as calipers and gauges.

·         Working knowledge of lockout/tagout and GMPs.

·         Ability to read SOPs, setup sheets, and equipment manuals.

·         High school diploma or GED.

Preferred

·         Experience with pasta extruders and dies.

·         Experience with sheeters, cutters, dryers, or packaging machines.

·         Basic understanding of PLCs, sensors, and automated equipment.

·         Technical school training or a mechanical or industrial maintenance certificate.

·         Experience in a USDA- or FDA-regulated facility.

·         Bilingual (English/Spanish or English/Italian) is a plus.

Working Conditions

·         Lift and carry up to 50 lbs.

·         Stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, and reach for extended periods.

·         Work around moving mechanical parts, in refrigerated areas, and near hot cooking areas.

·         Exposure to wet or humid conditions, temperature changes, and moderate to loud noise.

·         Wear required PPE, including hairnets, gloves, safety glasses, and hearing protection.

·         May need to work overtime, weekends, nights, or holidays based on production needs.

·         Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.

Benefits

·         Hourly pay with overtime opportunities

·         Health and dental insurance

·         Paid vacation and paid sick leave

·         On-the-job training and skills development

·         A family-owned, growing company with a strong reputation in the pasta industry

Equal Opportunity Employer

Pasta Mia is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered in accordance with the California Fair Chance Act.

Pasta Mia is a trusted brand in the United States for premium-filled and frozen pasta products, proudly bringing authentic Italian tradition to American tables. With a focus on innovation, quality, and safety, Pasta Mia offers a wide range of specialties - from ravioli and tortellini to gnocchi, cannelloni, manicotti, and more. Every product reflects a passion for excellence and a commitment to delivering the true taste of Italy.