Field Service Technician - Avapac, Sapac or Powder Packaging experience!

GEA Group, founded in Germany in 1881, is a global leader in engineering solutions, serving industries such as food and beverage, pharma, dairy, and more. With over 18,000 employees worldwide and a strong U.S. presence since 1929, GEA combines the heritage of a well-established company with the innovation of a forward-thinking industry leader. At GEA, we’re not just building equipment, we’re building lasting careers with an average employee tenure range from 8 + years, reflecting the strong culture, growth opportunities, and support we provide.

• Start strong – Medical, dental, and vision coverage begins on your first day
• Recharge and refresh – Enjoy 12 paid holidays, including a flexible floating holiday, and 136 hours of PTO to relax or explore
• Invest in your future – A 7% 401(k) employer match helps grow your retirement savings faster
• Keep learning – Take advantage of tuition reimbursement to further your education or skillset
• Live well – Our wellness incentive program rewards healthy habits
• Get support when you need it – Access to a confidential Employee Assistance Program for personal or professional guidance
• Save smart – Flexible Health Savings and Spending Accounts to manage out-of-pocket expenses

The typical base pay range for this position at the start of employment is expected to be between $35 - $40 per hour. GEA Group has different base pay ranges for different work locations within the United States.

The pay range is not guaranteed compensation or salary. The estimated range is the budgeted amount for the position. Final offers are based on various factors, including skill set, experience, location, qualifications, and other job-related reasons. You may be eligible for additional rewards, such as a discretionary bonus (based on eligibility) and/or equity awards.

GEA is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Field Service Technician to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for the inspection, installation, repair, and optimization of Powder Packaging and Freeze-Drying Equipment. The ideal candidate will bring strong technical expertise across mechanical, electrical, and automation systems, with proven experience in troubleshooting, system upgrades, and customer training. This position involves extensive travel across North America, with occasional international assignments as required.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform detailed inspections, repairs, testing, and optimization of Powder Packaging and Freeze-Drying Equipment.
• Install new equipment, including both mechanical and electrical components, ensuring safe and efficient startup.
• Diagnose and resolve complex mechanical, electrical, and automation issues, including PLC, HMI, and communication systems.
• Prepare clear and accurate inspection and service reports for both internal and external stakeholders.
• Recommend and execute system upgrades, retrofits, and optimizations to enhance performance and reliability.
• Independently or collaboratively install automation, mechanical, and combined system upgrades with high technical precision.
• Estimate labor time for service calls, rebuilds, installations, commissioning, and training sessions.
• Provide hands-on technical training to customers on equipment operation, preventive maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Collaborate with GEA’s Center of Competence (CoC) to support product development, testing, and improvement initiatives.
• Identify opportunities to improve tools, processes, and service operations for greater efficiency and customer satisfaction.
• Support internal teams with parts requests, quotes, and upgrade recommendations.
• Travel extensively across North America (U.S. and Canada), with occasional international travel for training or service assignments.
• Maintain strong attention to detail, ensuring all tasks meet GEA’s high standards for safety, quality, and reliability.

Qualifications and Skills

• Certification or equivalent experience in Automated Packing Machinery, Automation/Controls, or a related field.
• Minimum 10 years of hands-on experience in installation, service, repair, and troubleshooting of automated packaging or process equipment.
• Proven ability to write and modify PLC code (Rockwell) and develop or adjust HMI screens.
• Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills, including experience using standard tools and diagnostic equipment.
• Knowledge of 3-phase motor wiring, 120VAC power/communication, and 24VDC control systems.
• Familiarity with industrial networking and communication protocols such as Ethernet and DeviceNet.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting electrical and pneumatic schematics, PLC logic, and HMI code.
• Solid understanding of automation, controls, and mechanical integration.
• Self-starter with the ability to work independently and collaboratively with minimal supervision.
• Strong communication and organizational skills with fluency in English (verbal and written).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel approximately up to 70-80% of the time.

At GEA, we don’t just offer jobs, we offer opportunities to thrive, grow, and make an impact.

#engineeringforthebetter

GEA Group is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where all clients and employees feel welcomed, accepted, and valued. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.