At Kompak, everything revolves around technology that works. Behind every running line and smoothly running machine is a Service Technician, ensuring the process keeps running smoothly. But what does that mean in practice?
Service Technician Dave takes you through his workday: from analyzing complex malfunctions to preventatively improving installations. He’s quick to adapt, technically forward-thinking, and ensures production downtime is kept to a minimum. No two days are the same—and it’s precisely that combination of technology, challenge, and teamwork that makes working at Kompak so rewarding.
The start of the day: straight into action
“My workday usually starts with a handover from the previous service technician,” says Dave. “We discuss how his shift went and what malfunctions are still outstanding. That moment is crucial: what’s already been done, what problems did he encounter, and what should I be aware of?”
“This often means I can get started right away. No slow start, but straight into the machinery.”
What if you’ve never seen a malfunction before?
“Not every malfunction is the same—thankfully, because that’s precisely what makes the work challenging. If I encounter a problem I haven’t seen before, I start by thinking logically. You can’t solve every problem with the same mindset.”
“First, I approach the operator,” Dave explains.
“They’re the ones who first encounter the problem and work with the machine every day. Their input is invaluable. With that information, I analyze the situation and take targeted action.”
And if a malfunction lasts longer than expected? “Sometimes things go well, but often they don’t.” At such a moment, Dave reiterates his thought process:
Did he overlook something?
Did he forget something?
Can a colleague help with a fresh perspective?
Doubt is part of the job. Perseverance is too.
Indispensable tools
“There are many tools I use every day, but if I had to choose, my multimeter and my Allen key set are absolutely indispensable. Without those two, you wouldn’t get very far as a repair technician.”
Working together during a malfunction
“Who do I collaborate with most during a malfunction? Me, myself, and I.”
“But seriously: the most important collaboration is with the operators,” as Dave mentioned earlier. “They essentially guide you through the malfunction. The better the information they provide, the more effectively I can solve the problem. They’re at the machine every day, while I only visit occasionally.”
“In addition, my fellow maintenance technicians and the production team leader are indispensable. Good communication is essential. Not only to resolve the malfunction, but also because it’s precisely during these kinds of moments that you learn the most from each other.”
The person behind the mechanic
What would often surprise people about this work? “The number of different techniques needed to ultimately produce a single package.” “The amount of knowledge you need about the entire machinery is enormous.”
“To do this work well, you have to be mentally strong and have analytical thinking. You need both mechanical and electrical understanding,” Dave explains. Open communication with operators is also essential – you have to be able to rely on each other during malfunctions.
“And then there’s PLC programming. Knowledge of control technology is important for analyzing, adjusting, and structurally resolving malfunctions. Sometimes the problem isn’t with a component, but with its control.”
The weirdest malfunction ever?
“The strangest malfunction I’ve encountered at Kompak? That must have been the problem with the robot’s scanners.”
“The system was 100% certain that the problem wasn’t in this module. In fact, not even in the first Profibus loop. So they referred to the second Profibus loop… where nothing was wrong either.”
“Everything pointed elsewhere. And yet, that gut feeling kept nagging. Ultimately, that feeling turned out to be correct.”
“That’s perhaps the best part of this job,” says Dave: “Technology is logical, but experience and intuition often make the difference. Sometimes you have to trust not only what the system says, but also what you think.”
“Being a Service Technician is never boring. It’s searching, analyzing, collaborating, and sometimes following your own instincts against your better judgment. But that’s precisely what makes every day different – and every solution a small victory.”
Become our new Service Technician!
Does analyzing malfunctions, solving technical puzzles, and making a difference in the workplace every day sound like a challenge to you? Do you thrive on technology, collaboration, and trusting your gut when needed?
There’s a vacancy for a Service Technician on our Careers page – you might just be our new colleague! 💪🔧