Careers
A Day in the Life of a Maintenance Mechanic
Being a Maintenance Mechanic for Pepsi Bottling Ventures is really a round-the-clock job. That's why each production facility has a crew on-hand at all times.
The bottom line is if there is a line running, we need to be there. Machine efficiency and quality standards are our primary objectives as mechanics.
While our primary responsibilities are to take care of any mechanical issues involving the beverage lines and maintenance of the facility, the range of tasks that fall within those two categories is amazing.
One minute you could be replacing ceiling lights in the warehouse and the next you're quickly programming a PLC controller or building a new valve so a stalled production line can begin again. Basically, if it is broke we need to fix it.
Transition time and information sharing is critical...
There is a half-hour overlap between each shift so the incoming and outgoing mechanics can discuss any issues that need to be addressed immediately. After checking with the mechanic I'm replacing, I‘ll stop by the mailbox for my work orders for that shift.
At the beginning of each week, we're given a maintenance sheet. Preventive maintenance includes greasing bearings, changing oil, adjusting belts, and checking the timing on machines. These may seem like minor tasks, but they are critical to the upkeep and smooth operation of the machinery.
Even though the lines consume most of our attention, keeping the building in good shape is also a big part of the work we do. For instance, if a dock door won't open, a lift plate doesn't close, or the dock locks won't release a trainer, we take care of these things right away or production stalls.
Our busiest time is definitely overnight...
All the mechanical repairs and maintenance that we cannot do when the lines are running are completed after midnight. The third shift is the time when we take care of package changes. The lines may go from two-liter bottles to 20-ounce bottles to half-liters and we make those changes between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m. so the lines are up and running by 7 a.m. when the first-shift operators arrive.
However, most of the work we do every day can't be planned. You'll hear your name called over the radio asking you to report to a certain line and it's up to you to fix whatever the problem may be.
That's why Pepsi Bottling Ventures is always looking for people who have mechanical or electrical backgrounds who can come in and basically hit the ground running.
If you like fixing machines, interacting with PLC controllers, and utilizing all your mechanical skills, you'll love it here.
David, Maintenance Mechanic, Raleigh
