Maintenance Intern

Who we are

Lesaffre is a key global player in the fermentation of microorganisms (yeasts and bacteria) for baking, taste, healthcare and industrial biotechnology. This story began more than 170 years ago in northern France, and, thanks to our pioneer spirit and our innovative approach, we are constantly developing.

Lesaffre's global presence includes 11,000 employees from 96 nationalities and a 3-billion euro turnover. We work with customers, partners and researchers to develop essential nutrients and bio actives that strengthen human health, optimize animal well-being and improve plant nutrition.

This role is within our Red Star Yeast team. Red Star delivers a range of high-performing yeast and related products that empower bakers and food manufacturers to create consistent, flavorful, and high-quality baked goods. Backed by Lesaffre and Archer Daniels Midland and supported by modern manufacturing facilities in Cedar Rapids, IA and Dothan, AL, our team blends global expertise with local reliability to bring trusted, innovative yeast solutions to the U.S. and Canadian markets.

What you bring to the table

As a Maintenance Intern you'll maintain and repair any and all plant electrical equipment and control instruments. You'll also assist in the construction and installation of plant electrical modifications or equipment additions as assigned by the Electrical/Instrumentation Supervisor.

What you'll do as a Maintenance Intern

• Demonstrates an unwavering commitment to Lesaffre's safety-first culture by strictly following all safety protocols and participating in required safety programs
• Perform preventive and predictive maintenance on machinery and equipment.
• Inspect mechanical systems to identify wear, damage, or potential failures.
• Troubleshoot and repair mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical equipment.
• Replace defective components, including bearings, belts, motors, pumps, valves, and gears.
• Install, assemble, and test new equipment and machinery.
• Maintain maintenance logs, work orders, and repair records.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and company policies.
• Use hand tools, power tools, welding equipment, and precision measuring instruments.
• Coordinate with production, engineering, and operations personnel to resolve equipment issues.
• Respond to emergency breakdowns and perform repairs as needed.
• Assist other technicians with inspections of equipment and make necessary repairs as requested.
• Log daily activities and Work Order (WO) reports on WO database.
• Communicate progress on assigned duties and general topics through various software programs.
• Assist the mechanical maintenance department and technicians as needed.
• Make mechanical decisions, repairs, and adjustments when necessary.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required qualifications

• Apprenticeship, working toward an Associate's/Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Maintenance (or related field) or equivalent work experience.
• Must understand be able to use complicated test equipment for diagnosis of hard-to-find problems with electrical circuits and equipment.
• Must be able to read and understand PLC logic and electrical diagrams or schematics.
• Must be able to read equipment manuals and use the troubleshooting guides found within to solve problems.
• Must be willing and able to use a computer on a daily basis.
• Must be willing and able to use tools.
• Required to be trained on and able to operate forklifts, man lifts, production equipment and power tools.
• Able to handle critical decision-making responsibilities and deal with mental stress from occasional extended worked hours.

Lesaffre provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.