Ryan Yost
Chicago,IL
Summary
Professional with strong background in providing technical support and resolving complex customer issues. Skilled in troubleshooting, networking, and software diagnostics, ensuring seamless user experiences. Valued team collaborator focused on achieving results and adapting to evolving needs. Known for clear communication, problem-solving abilities, and customer-centric approach.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
Customer Support Engineer
Target Flo Center& Automated Distribution Facility
05.2023 - Current
- Provides phone support, field support, supervision and project planning to all contractors and technicians
- Diagnosed and troubleshot complex system problems, leveraging analytical skills to enhance user experience.
- Provided technical support for software and hardware issues, ensuring timely resolutions for customer inquiries.
- Specialize in the installation, debug, maintenance and troubleshooting of control systems, conveyors, automation and package delivery systems.
- Experienced at interpreting blueprints, floor plans, machine assembly, ladder logic and electrical diagrams Proficiently diagnose issues in plc code, electrical controls, Servo drive, VFD, pneumatic, hydraulic and mechanical assemblies
- Analyzed customer feedback to identify trends and implement solutions addressing recurring issues.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to streamline support processes and improve service delivery.
- Ability to perform all diagnosis, repair and preventive maintenance on various conveyor types such as. MDR, Accuglide, FlowSort. ModSort, Breakbelt, Belt driven, belt, shoe sort, chain drive and many more
- Conducted training sessions for customers on product features, fostering user engagement and satisfaction.
- Led initiatives to optimize ticket resolution times through process improvements and resource allocation strategies.
- Demonstrated exceptional analytical skills by diagnosing complex software issues promptly and escalating them when necessary.
- Frequent use of scanners and cameras in the tracking and routing of packages throughout the system
- Maintained strong relationships with clients by consistently delivering timely, professional, and empathetic support services.
- Implement and utilize many different types of CMMS software to track assets, parts, build and schedule pm cycles
- Answered incoming support inquiries via chat, phone and email.
- Project lead in using outside contractors and team members in the implementation of creation of custom systems integration projects
- Acted as a liaison between customers and internal teams to ensure seamless handover during escalation or project-related support, ensuring customer satisfaction at all times.
- Team lead on custom projects using ignition to interface with PLC
- Current Allen Bradley to Legacy SLC 5 proficiency. Some siemens
- Ability to use different types of software for field use like concur and SAP
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to streamline support processes and
- Developed comprehensive documentation for troubleshooting procedures, improving access to information for support staff.
Maintenance Manager and Plant Engineer
Synergy
06.2022 - 05.2023
- Oversee 2 food Manufacturing Facilities
- Hands on mechanical and electrical and controls
- Manage Electricians, Stationary Engineers & millwrights
- Handle all facilities maintenance issues
- Oversaw maintenance operations, ensuring optimal performance of equipment and facilities.
- Managing 13 maintenance employees at 2 facilities
- Developed and implemented preventive maintenance programs to enhance reliability and reduce downtime.
- Lead controls technician & PLC programmer
- Managed a team of technicians, providing training and guidance to improve technical skills and efficiency.
- Hands on 3 phase and low voltage lead
- Coordinated scheduling for routine inspections and emergency repairs to minimize operational disruptions.
- Handle procurement of all spare & new parts
- Analyzed maintenance data to identify trends, leading to strategic improvements in processes and systems.
- Outsource larger projects to appropriate trades
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align maintenance goals with organizational objectives.
- Secure bids on all projects
- Established safety protocols, promoting a culture of compliance and risk management across the department.
- Acting plant engineer
- Implemented cost-saving initiatives through vendor negotiations and resource optimization in maintenance activities.
- Execution of large capital equipment installations
- Optimized spare parts inventory management by identifying critical items and setting appropriate stock levels based on usage patterns.
- Manage cap ex budgets
- Improved equipment reliability by implementing a preventive maintenance program and managing repair schedules.
- Handling all payroll and scheduling for maintenance team
- Collaborated with other department managers to coordinate maintenance activities around production schedules, minimizing operational interruptions.
- Oversee the diagnosis and troubleshooting of all factory automation and production equipment
- Increased overall equipment efficiency by conducting thorough assessments of machinery conditions and implementing necessary improvements.
- Implementation of CMMS Software for Maintenance department
- Led the successful completion of major facility upgrades projects while adhering to budget constraints and timelines.
- Write PM Schedules and work orders for crew
- Trained maintenance technicians to apply proper techniques and best practices and comply with safety protocols.
- Scheduled regular inspections of equipment and facilities to manage wear and tear.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors for cost-effective procurement of parts and services, maintaining strong working relationships.
- Maintain spare parts inventory and order parts for projects
- Developed detailed maintenance budgets, effectively controlling expenses while ensuring optimal equipment performance.
- Reduced downtime by efficiently overseeing the maintenance team and prioritizing tasks according to urgency.
- Conducted root cause analysis of recurring issues, devising long-term solutions that minimized future disruption
- Hands on mechanical and electrical and controls
- Manage Electricians, Stationary Engineers & millwrights
Technician Team Leader
Vital Proteins
06.2020 - 06.2021
- Coordinated maintenance schedules to minimize equipment downtime.
- Comprehend extensive primary and secondary packaging equipment from multiple OEMS
- Monitored inventory levels, ensuring timely replenishment of supplies.
- Ability to interpret mechanical assemblies, sub-assemblies, electrical prints, wiring diagrams and parts assemblies
- Developed training materials to enhance team knowledge and skills.
- Conducted performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback for development.
- Streamlined communication between departments, fostering collaboration and information sharing.
- Evaluated team performance regularly, providing constructive feedback and targeted coaching for improvement.
- Contributed to ongoing process improvements by identifying inefficiencies and suggesting innovative solutions.
- Implemented inventory control measures that minimized stock discrepancies and reduced reordering costs.
- Streamlined workflow for increased efficiency by optimizing technician assignments and workload distribution.
- Handled escalated customer complaints diplomatically, resolving issues promptly while preserving client relationships.
- Reduced equipment downtime through meticulous troubleshooting and effective repair techniques.
- Coordinated cross-functional teams on complex projects to deliver successful outcomes within tight timeframes.
- Mentored junior technicians, sharing knowledge and expertise to foster professional growth within the team.
- Established performance metrics for technicians, driving accountability and continuous improvement within the team.
- Collaborated with other departments to ensure seamless integration of services and support across the organization.
- Managed project timelines effectively, meeting or exceeding deadlines consistently while maintaining high-quality standards.
- Improved overall equipment reliability through thorough preventive maintenance procedures.
- Boosted customer satisfaction with timely resolution of technical issues and proactive communication.
Field Site Manager and Customer Service Engineer
Interlake Mecalux
06.2020 - 06.2021
- Site Manager and Customer Service engineer providing remote and onsite technical troubleshooting, Installations and support
- Travel to customer sites across the world to evaluate, install, maintain and repair custom Automated Warehouse Systems
- Frequent use of Lenze Servo Drives and VFDs, with the ability to program/troubleshoot
- Program and troubleshoot Allen Bradley PLC's
- Managed project timelines, coordinating resources and schedules to meet deadlines.
- Ability to evaluate other OEMs PLC programs and edit for integration
- Developed and implemented site-specific procedures to enhance operational efficiency.
- Diagnose and program HMI's
- Trained and mentored team members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
- Ability to use control skills to integrate other OEM systems with Mecalux production lines
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to address challenges and optimize workflows.
- Project lead on complete line of Mecalux AWS Systems
- Conducted regular site audits, identifying areas for process enhancement and compliance gaps.
- Project site manager and controls specialist
- Led strategic planning sessions, aligning site objectives with company goals for growth.
- Freq. integration of conveyors, robotics, cranes, scales
- Utilized project management software to track progress and facilitate communication among stakeholders.
- Complete factory authorized testing of all control panels before it's shipped out
- Do complete machine builds, custom electrical, wiring, pneumatic configurations
- Ability to read blueprints and schematics to complete custom AWS lines from prints
- Communicate with customer and engineering to implement field changes and solutions
- Train all customers and end users at all organizational levels on how to properly operate
- Train maintenance staff on proper maintenance intervals, operation and repair of equipment
- Constant use of File maker for service reporting and timesheets for payroll
- Work independently with minimal supervision making all travel arrangements through Concur
- Maintained spare parts inventory, tools, manuals
Customer Service Engineering Supervisor
RHM Staffing
06.2018 - 06.2020
- Supervised engineering team to enhance project delivery timelines and quality standards.
- Implemented process improvements that reduced operational bottlenecks and increased productivity.
- Led troubleshooting initiatives for complex engineering challenges, ensuring timely resolution of issues.
- Actively participated in recruitment efforts, interviewing candidates and making hiring recommendations based on technical skills and cultural fit within the department.
- Increased overall department efficiency through strategic planning, effective resource management, and close monitoring of project progress.
- Ability to handle large Union workforce of 30+ employees
- Developed training programs to elevate technical competencies across the engineering department.
- Oversee Electrical Control employees
- Outsource Programmers for larger projects
- Set and managed budgets for capital, expense and cost improvement activities and defined and developed project specifications.
- Oversee Millwrights, Pipefitters, Tool Makers, Tool Repair, Welders
- Handling all payroll for team
- Troubleshooting conveyors, ovens, finishing systems, robotics
- Assign and Write PM Schedules and work orders for crew
- Outsource larger projects to appropriate trades
- Maintain spare parts inventory and order parts for projects
Senior Customer Service Engineer
Harpak Ulma
06.2016 - 06.2018
- Led troubleshooting efforts for complex customer issues, ensuring timely resolution and high satisfaction rates.
- Field Electrical controls and packaging equipment technician providing remote and onsite technical support
- Travel to customer sites across the world to evaluate, install, maintain and repair custom packaging systems
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align technical support with customer needs and business goals.
- Mentored junior engineers, enhancing team skills and improving overall service quality.
- Analyzed customer feedback to identify trends, driving strategic enhancements in service delivery.
- Frequent use of Lenze Servo Drives and VFDs, with the ability to program/troubleshoot
- Program and troubleshoot Allen Bradley PLC's
- Conducted training sessions for staff on new tools and best practices, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
- Ability to evaluate other OEMs PLC programs and edit for integration
- Diagnose and program packaging equipment HMI's
- Managed escalated support cases, utilizing advanced problem-solving techniques to achieve successful outcomes.
- Ability to use control skills to integrate other OEM systems with Ulma production lines
- Project lead on complete line of Ulma thermoforming vacuum packaging lines
- Project and controls lead on complete line of G. Mondini tray sealer packaging lines
- Freq. integration of conveyors, scale systems, meat slicers, cracker placers, packaging
- Complete factory authorized testing of all packaging equipment before it's shipped out
- Do complete machine builds, custom electrical, wiring, pneumatic configurations
- Ability to read blueprints and schematics to complete custom packaging lines from print
- Communicate with customer and engineering to implement field changes and solutions
- Train all customers and end users at all organizational levels on how to properly operate
- Train maintenance staff on proper maintenance intervals, operation and repair of equipment
Field Site Manager / Project Manager
KMI Systems
06.2010 - 06.2016
- Senior field electrical controls engineer and capital equipment startup specialist
- On site senior project manager supervising up to 30 Union employees on projects lasting up to 2yrs
- Managed site operations to ensure adherence to safety and quality standards.
- Automotive experience managing installation of E Coat system at Freight liner
- Travel across the world to evaluate, install, maintain and repair custom finishing systems
- Oversaw project timelines, coordinating resources and schedules for timely completion.
- Develop project build timeline evaluations to corporate facilitators for production
- Ability to constantly evaluate man hours for project completion and forecast for future demands
- Conducted regular site meetings with team members, fostering open communication channels for efficient problem-solving and progress updates.
- Constantly work with engineering to implement field changes and creative solutions
- Installation and commissioning of custom Industrial Combustion and burner systems
- Installation of Industrial Furnaces, and Ovens, and Painting systems from print
- Specializing in porcelain, powder and E Coat finishing systems
- Custom design, fabrication, and implementation of conveyor systems
- Diagnose and repair industrial automation and robot
- Program and troubleshoot Allen Bradley PLC systems
- Frequent use of Servo Drives and VFD's
- Perform 480v three phase AC/DC circuit analysis
- Program, configure and Implement Honeywell burner controls
- Troubleshooting repair and calibration of burner systems
- Ability to read blueprints and schematics to build custom assemblies from print
- On site logistics coordinator and parts manager for all parts and contractor outsourced build
- Act as company Safety Supervisor in charge of all permits and safety requirements
Education
Industrial Electrical Maintenance certification -
Coyne College
01.2001
Industrial Electronic Controls Certificate -
Coyne College
ILSkills
- Telephone and email etiquette
- Mechanical, Electrical, and Programming Repair work
- Customer support
- Network configuration
- Documentation and reporting
- Equipment installation
- Device configuration
- Quality standards
- Root-cause analysis
- Technical support
- User training
Timeline
Customer Support Engineer
Target Flo Center& Automated Distribution Facility
05.2023 - Current
Maintenance Manager and Plant Engineer
Synergy
06.2022 - 05.2023
Technician Team Leader
Vital Proteins
06.2020 - 06.2021
Field Site Manager and Customer Service Engineer
Interlake Mecalux
06.2020 - 06.2021
Customer Service Engineering Supervisor
RHM Staffing
06.2018 - 06.2020
Senior Customer Service Engineer
Harpak Ulma
06.2016 - 06.2018
Field Site Manager / Project Manager
KMI Systems
06.2010 - 06.2016
Industrial Electrical Maintenance certification -
Coyne College
Industrial Electronic Controls Certificate -
Coyne College