Maintenance Operations Lead — Food Manufacturing Automation

Ready to lead a zero-downtime mindset?

Do you thrive in fast-moving food production? Can you coach mechanics, enforce safety and sanitation, and still roll up your sleeves for precision welding or a 600V electrical task? If yes, you might be the leader we are looking for.

What you will do

• Independently perform all duties expected of a Mechanic while guiding a high-performing team.
• Own the preventive maintenance program end to end: schedule, complete, and update activities and records, including the Idle Assets Database.
• Fabricate and install non-mechanical equipment like stands and tables to support production efficiency.
• Keep thorough documentation for work orders, downtime, maintenance projects, and material purchases.
• Service and troubleshoot electrical systems up to 600 volts.
• Execute accurate welding using heli-arc, TIG, and plasma cutting tools.
• Operate stand-up and sit-down forklifts; maintain active licensure.
• Shape the team by making recommendations on hiring, terminations, discipline, promotions, transfers, and pay decisions.
• Lead training and continuous improvement initiatives for the department.
• Enforce quality, safety, and sanitation procedures without compromise.
• Manage labor utilization, complete tasks on straight time, and structure projects for departmental efficiency.
• Apply company policies and local practices consistently and fairly.
• Conduct performance reviews and salary discussions; give timely feedback.
• Assist employees with problem solving, coaching, and motivation.
• Process purchases of tools, parts, and materials through the NWF Req Database.
• Set and manage the Maintenance Mechanics work schedule and remain on-call during the week for urgent issues.
• Take on additional projects and duties as business needs change.

What you bring

• Technical trade or college education, or equivalent practical background.
• At least 5 years of manufacturing maintenance experience, with 3 or more in food manufacturing.
• 2 to 3+ years supervising employees; proven leadership and decisive task assignment.
• Hands-on knowledge of PLCs and VFDs; experience with Allen-Bradley is a plus. You will troubleshoot, not program.
• Active certification to operate both stand-up and sit-down forklifts.

Strengths that set you apart

• Expert troubleshooting and root cause analysis.
• Strong pneumatics and preventive maintenance experience.
• Industrial robot programming exposure.
• Supervisory capability with a coaching mindset.
• Comfort with industrial automation diagnostics.
• Proficiency with welding setups for production.
• Comprehensive maintenance and repair skills, including lift truck service.