TPM
TPM (Total Productive Maintenance) is a workplace system used in manufacturing to keep equipment running smoothly and efficiently. Think of it like a complete health program for machines and production lines. Instead of waiting for things to break, TPM involves everyone - from machine operators to maintenance staff - in preventing problems before they happen. This approach helps factories reduce downtime, improve product quality, and save money. Similar terms include "Preventive Maintenance" or "Plant Maintenance Management." Many automotive companies use TPM as part of their larger lean manufacturing or continuous improvement efforts.
Examples in Resumes
Led implementation of TPM program across 3 production lines, resulting in 30% reduction in equipment downtime
Trained 50+ operators in TPM practices and basic equipment maintenance
Achieved World Class Manufacturing certification through successful TPM and Total Productive Maintenance initiatives
Typical job title: "TPM Coordinators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find TPM Coordinators
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you implement a TPM program in a plant that has never had one?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that discuss step-by-step implementation plans, including employee training, creating maintenance schedules, setting up tracking systems, and measuring success through equipment effectiveness metrics. They should mention involving all levels of employees and creating buy-in.
Q: How do you measure the success of a TPM program?
Expected Answer: Candidate should mention key metrics like Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), reduction in breakdowns, maintenance costs, and production quality improvements. They should also discuss how to track and present these metrics to management.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the main pillars of TPM and how do they work together?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic pillars like autonomous maintenance, planned maintenance, quality maintenance, and training in simple terms, with examples of how they support each other.
Q: How do you engage operators in the TPM process?
Expected Answer: Should discuss training programs, creating simple maintenance checklists, involving operators in equipment inspections, and showing them how TPM makes their job easier and safer.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the difference between preventive and reactive maintenance?
Expected Answer: Should explain that preventive maintenance is planned and done regularly to prevent breakdowns, while reactive maintenance is fixing things after they break. Should give basic examples of each.
Q: What basic maintenance tasks can machine operators perform?
Expected Answer: Should mention simple tasks like cleaning, inspecting, lubricating, and basic checks that operators can do during their regular work day to help maintain equipment.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic equipment maintenance procedures
- Safety protocols and procedures
- Maintenance documentation
- Basic problem-solving methods
Mid (2-5 years)
- Team training and coordination
- Maintenance schedule planning
- Performance metrics tracking
- Root cause analysis
Senior (5+ years)
- TPM program implementation
- Budget management
- Cross-functional team leadership
- Continuous improvement strategies
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on maintenance experience
- Lack of safety awareness
- Poor communication skills
- No experience with maintenance tracking systems
- Unable to explain basic maintenance concepts
Related Terms
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