The Company
At Saint-Gobain, we design, manufacture, and distribute materials and solutions that enhance the well-being of people and the planet. With over 350 years of history, we are a global leader in sustainable construction, high-performance materials, and advanced manufacturing. Operating in more than 75 countries with over 166,000 employees, we drive innovation to create a better future. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, where all individuals are encouraged to thrive and contribute their expertise.
Purpose of the role
Drive continuous improvement in, product quality and equipment reliability so that our factory consistently performs at sector-leading levels. The role blends hands-on fitting, planned maintenance, and small-scale project management with active participation in World Class Manufacturing (WCM) programmes that accelerate organisational and cultural change.
Key Responsibilities
Equipment Expertise & Trials
- Understand the design, operating parameters and control systems of all board-plant machinery.
- Commission, test and evaluate new equipment or upgrades, feeding back clear performance data.
Predictive & Preventive Maintenance
- Plan maintenance using the CMMS (PEMAC), plant history and real-time process data to minimise unplanned downtime.
- Anticipate knock-on effects of issues such as lubrication loss, jam-ups or mis-feeds and act before they escalate.
Precision Repair & Fabrication
- Diagnose and repair mechanical, electronic, hydraulic and pneumatic components that demand fine hand skills.
- Weld confidently (MMA, MIG/TIG, oxy-fuel) and machine parts on lathes, mills and related workshop equipment.
- Carry out pipe-work, plumbing and combustion system repairs to restore safe, reliable operation.
Fluid-Power & Energy Systems
- Apply sound theory and good practice in hydraulics, pneumatics, lubrication and combustion to optimise performance and energy efficiency.
Process-Control & Data Utilisation
- Extract, interpret and act on information from SCADA, PLCs and other process-control equipment to improve product quality and machine productivity.
- Relate product quality trends directly to machine condition and operating parameters.
Documentation & Reporting
- Complete work orders, shift logs and one-point lessons accurately and on time.
- Maintain up-to-date asset files, drawings and SOPs in line with audit requirements.
Materials & Stores Management
- Identify, source and book spare parts efficiently; know where critical items are stored and how to requisition them.
Knowledge-Sharing & Coaching
- Transfer skills to operators, apprentices and fellow craftspeople, building a multi-skilled, high-performing team.
World-Class Manufacturing (WCM) Participation
- Contribute to PM and AM pillars, lead quick Kaizens and track relevant KPIs to drive continuous improvement.
Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWP)
- Operate MEWPs safely when tasks require work at height, following all site permit procedures.
Other Duties
- Perform additional tasks within the overall scope of the role as business needs evolve.
These responsibilities capture the technical depth of the position while emphasising proactive maintenance, data-driven decision-making and collaborative continuous improvement.
Qualifications, Skills & Competencies
- Trade qualification in Mechanical Fitting, Maintenance Technology, or equivalent (e.g. QQI Level 6).
- Strong mechanical background, with proven experience in a high-volume manufacturing or process environment.
- Demonstrated understanding of plant maintenance practices, including fault-finding, repair, and preventive maintenance.
- Practical experience working with: Hydraulic and pneumatic systems, Welding techniques (MIG, TIG, Arc, Gas), Workshop equipment (lathe, milling machine, grinders, etc.) and Pipework and basic plumbing
- Competent in interpreting technical drawings, P&IDs, and maintenance manuals.
- Strong focus on safety and environmental compliance.
Technical Skills
- Familiarity with process control equipment and ability to interpret live plant data to support decision-making.
- Proficient in the use of CMMS (e.g., PEMAC or similar systems) for planning, executing, and recording maintenance activities.
- Understanding of mechanical theory in relation to: Hydraulics, pneumatics, and lubrication systems, Combustion systems and energy efficiency and Root cause analysis and reliability improvement
- Knowledge of WCM/Lean tools such as AM/PM, OPLs, Kaizen, and standardised work practices.
Core Competencies
- Safety First Mindset – Models safe working practices and proactively addresses risks before they escalate.
- Problem Solving – Systematic and logical approach to fault-finding and continuous improvement.
- Attention to Detail – Delivers high-quality, precise work with a focus on equipment reliability and product quality.
- Initiative & Accountability – Takes ownership of tasks, follows through on commitments, and contributes beyond core duties when needed.
- Collaboration & Communication – Works effectively as part of a cross-functional team, sharing knowledge and supporting others.
- Adaptability – Comfortable in a dynamic, evolving production environment; flexible in covering shift patterns and overtime as required.
Desirable Skills
- MEWP operation certification.
- Exposure to WCM, TPM or Lean Six Sigma environments.
- Previous experience mentoring or training apprentices or team members.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Additional pay:
- Bonus pay
- Overtime pay
Benefits:
- Bike to work scheme
- Company events
- Company pension
- Employee assistance program
- Sick pay
Schedule:
- Overtime
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Cavan, CO. Cavan: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Education:
- Advanced/Higher Certificate (preferred)
Work authorisation:
- Ireland (preferred)
Work Location: In person
