Finishing Systems Maintenance

The Crystal Lake facility is a cornerstone in ProDriven Global Brands’ global manufacturing network, producing market‑leading products trusted on job sites around the world—reflecting the company’s strong focus on end‑user needs and product performance. With a portfolio that includes iconic brands like Werner®, WEATHER GUARD®, KNAACK®, our teams contribute to products recognized globally for durability, safety, and innovation.

At Crystal Lake, you’ll be part of a facility with a rich history and a deep community presence, where employees describe it as “a great place to build, learn, and grow” and take pride in knowing their work makes a meaningful impact.

This site is also actively advancing the company’s continuous improvement and Lean journey, supported by investments in cutting‑edge robotics, automation, and new technology that drive operational excellence and enhance team capability. The facility consistently focuses on safety, quality, and innovation—core pillars across all ProDriven operations and tightly aligned with the company’s global transformation strategy to grow as a diversified, innovation‑driven industrial manufacturer.

Joining the Crystal Lake team means stepping into a high‑visibility role where you contribute to a facility that blends heritage, community values, and advanced manufacturing technologies. It’s more than an operations job—it’s a chance to help shape the future of an industry‑leading manufacturer with global reach and strong local roots.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Know and observe all safety rules and use required safety equipment.
• Keep work areas clean, neat, and orderly.
• Monitor, analyze, and maintain chemical concentrations, temperatures, and mechanical condition of the wash system and waste treatment system.
• Monitor chemical inventory weekly, reorder as needed, and ensure incoming chemicals meet quality and storage requirements.
• Schedule and oversee dumping and cleaning of wash stages and the waste treatment system.
• Maintain temperatures and mechanical condition of dry-off ovens, cool-down tunnels, and cure ovens; run monthly temperature charts for all ovens.
• Monitor DI system operation, perform recharges, and check city water quality, rinse stages, phosphate, pH, and discharge water quality.
• Ensure powder coating equipment operates optimally; maintain records, assist with troubleshooting/repairs, and order parts as needed.
• Complete required product testing (QUV, Salt Spray, MEK rub test, Adhesion, Impact, etc.) with current and new suppliers.
• Calibrate all process and testing equipment as required and maintain proper documentation, including annual certifications.
• Operate the waste treatment system and maintain required discharge levels; obtain proper certification as needed.
• Maintain accurate records of system operation parameters, waste treatment logs, and product test results, including annual retention.
• Maintain inventory of system supplies (chart paper, LMI pump parts, etc.).
• Complete preventative maintenance tasks and collaborate with maintenance personnel to ensure proper equipment operation.
• Coordinate with finishing personnel to meet team objectives, including washer changeovers.
• Train backup personnel and stay updated on all changes.
• Perform other duties as required by management or the team.
• Serve as the environmental equipment process owner.
• Work toward improved communication with team members.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledgeable in Windows-based programs, including Word and Excel, to independently update SPC charts and input data.
• Knowledgeable of the entire paint/wash system and its operation.
• Participation in company-required training such as Hazardous Waste Management, Spill Control & Response, DOT, Contingency Plan, and Security Awareness Training.
• Forklift license.
• Wastewater Treatment certification.
• High school diploma or equivalent.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• Employees must wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, safety‑toe boots, and other protective gear as needed for working around finishing and chemical systems.
• Finishing Systems Maintenance personnel work in a dynamic production environment that includes exposure to indoor and occasional outdoor areas, as well as chemical processes, wash systems, ovens, and wastewater treatment equipment.
• The work area may be noisy, humid, dusty, or exposed to varying temperatures due to ovens, wash stages, and ventilation systems.
• The role requires standing for extended periods and frequent walking throughout the facility to monitor and maintain equipment.
• Regular bending, kneeling, crouching, climbing, and reaching are required, along with physical strength and stamina to perform repetitive tasks, handle equipment, and work in physically demanding conditions.
• Strong hand‑eye coordination and manual dexterity are needed for handling tools, troubleshooting equipment, performing calibrations, and completing precise mechanical or chemical system adjustments.
• Based on production needs, system demands, and maintenance schedules, employees may be required to work overtime, including extended shifts and weekends.

Salary Range

$22-$30/hr

Benefits

• 401(k) company match
• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life and disability insurance
• Paid time off

WernerCo is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion. WernerCo is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All qualified applicants to WernerCo are considered for employment without regard to age, color, disability, ethnicity, family or marital status, gender identity or expression, language, national origin, physical and mental ability, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, veteran status or any other protected characteristic. WernerCo will not tolerate discrimination or harassment of any kind based on these characteristics.