Mechanics – work that makes the world go round

14.01.2025

The profession of mechanic is versatile and, although fewer and fewer young people are choosing this line of work, it is promising and well-paid, with opportunities for growth. Being a mechanic requires both technical knowledge and spatial thinking, as well as the ability to solve problems, but most importantly, a love of working with machines and finding solutions.

As an industrial company, Latvijas Finieris cannot be imagined without a professional team of mechanics, which is provided by Latvijas Finieris “Iekārtu rūpnīca” – Machinery production unit, whose employees not only design and manufacture equipment for processing veneer and plywood of varying degrees of complexity, but also carry out the assembly, preventive diagnostics and servicing of this equipment throughout the Group, as well as technical servicing. A team of around 20 mechanics, ranging from repairers to Senior Maintenance Mechanics, ensures that industrial equipment runs efficiently every day, keeping production running smoothly and uninterrupted by equipment breakdowns.

Mārtiņš Aužels is one of our mechanics, who has been with Latvijas Finieris for eight years. His path to this profession began at Olaine College of Mechanics and Technologies (now Riga Technical University Olaine College of Technology). During his study placements, he got to know the operations of the Latvijas Finieris mill, Lignums, and the company’s environment. This experience was decisive – Mārtiņš decided to build his career at Latvijas Finieris. Mārtiņš’ story is an example of how, by following one’s interests and passion and working hard, one can build a successful and stable career as a mechanic.

Starting a career and opportunities for growth

Starting out as a repair locksmith, Mārtiņš has been working as a Senior Maintenance Mechanic, gaining experience and expanding his knowledge, improving step by step and proving himself.

“Although I have a vocational education, it was enough for me to start working at Latvijas Finieris. The studies helped me to understand and gave me the confidence that this was the right profession, but everything else was a matter of experience,”

says Mārtiņš.

Latvijas Finieris offers a wide range of opportunities for employees’ professional development. For example, mechanics can learn hydraulic skills, acquire the right to drive forklifts or acquire other competencies that help them improve their professional skills. In addition, such additional knowledge and skills allow employees to specialise in certain areas, such as modernising industrial equipment or learning specific technologies.

Everyday working life – challenges and diversity

The daily life of a mechanic in a company is dynamic and varied. With production running around the clock, Mārtiņš’ working day starts with analysing incidents that occurred during the night and a morning meeting to discuss the day’s plans and tasks. It should be stressed that mechanics are not only involved in repairing equipment but also in maintaining and modernising it, for example, giving old equipment a “second life” by refurbishing it.

Senior Maintenance Mechanics have even broader responsibilities: they plan and organise work, prepare the necessary spare parts and train junior colleagues. Mārtiņš notes that cooperation and teamwork are among the most important factors in this profession. New employees are assigned a mentor to help them settle into the work environment and learn specific skills.

“As a Senior Maintenance Mechanic, my main task is planning. I prepare the drawings for the parts and manage the process while the repairer does the follow-up work. There is no routine – every day is creative and brings new experiences,”

says Mārtiņš.

From a hobby to a stable profession

Many mechanics discover their interest in this field at an early age while working on their bicycles or performing other mechanical work.

And this was the case for Mārtiņš:

“When I was a kid, I also liked to work in the garage, either fixing bicycles or other machinery. When I had to choose my next step after ninth grade, I decided to train as an industrial mechanic. The other option was a car mechanic. But when I looked at my future options, I chose industrial, and I have no regrets.”

 

Working at Latvijas Finieris, he particularly appreciates the stability of the profession and the working environment:

“I don’t have to worry about having a job tomorrow – it’s guaranteed, it’s interesting, and it’s something that constantly pushes me to grow and improve. My colleagues are supportive and we have great collaboration. Latvijas Finieris offers a secure and stable workplace, as well as opportunities for professional development.”

 

Mārtiņš remembers his first day at Latvijas Finieris’ largest mill, Lignums, with a smile:

“At first everything seemed so big and complicated, but with time I realised that it could be overcome. Today, my work gives me both professional satisfaction and the opportunity to develop. I am proud of the knowledge I have acquired. I believe that at Latvijas Finieris, there is an opportunity to not only learn and develop but also work on a wide variety of equipment.”

Learn more about career opportunities at Latvijas Finieris