Education/Experience:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field, with 10+ years of experience in plant manufacturing and maintenance, including 3+ years of director-level experience.
- Technical Expertise: Extensive experience in food manufacturing, with a deep understanding of manufacturing processes, automation, and utilities.
- Leadership Skills: Proven leadership abilities to inspire and motivate teams, drive results, and foster a positive work culture.
- Problem-Solving and Analytical Skills: Strong analytical skills to identify root causes of issues and develop effective solutions.
- Business Acumen: Solid understanding of financial principles, budgeting, and cost control.
- Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with diverse stakeholders at all levels.
- Technical Knowledge: Proficiency in PLCs, logic controls, and other automation technologies.
- Regulatory Compliance: Knowledge of HACCP, food safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
- MRP and ERP systems.
- Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
Lead and oversee all technical operations at a large-scale manufacturing facility. This includes managing teams responsible for manufacturing engineering, automation, utilities, wastewater management, maintenance, repair, operations, and spare parts inventory. The ideal candidate will be a seasoned leader with a proven track record of driving operational excellence, reducing downtime, and enhancing plant efficiency while maintaining the highest food safety and product quality standards.
Key Responsibilities:
- Leadership and Team Development: Lead and develop a high-performing team of engineers, technicians, and other technical professionals.
- Operational Excellence: Implement and optimize Total Productive Maintenance programs, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and leverage Lean Manufacturing principles to streamline processes and reduce waste.
- Maintenance and Reliability: Oversee preventive and corrective maintenance programs, manage MRO inventory, and ensure equipment reliability and uptime.
- Automation and Engineering: Lead automation and engineering projects to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.
- Safety and Compliance: Ensure adherence to all safety, environmental, and regulatory standards, including HACCP and food safety regulations.
- Strategic Planning: Collaborate with senior leadership to develop and execute long-term strategic plans for the technical services function.
- Project Management: Manage capital projects, including the Wastewater Recovery and Recycle Facility from initiation to completion.
- Stakeholder Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including regulatory agencies, suppliers, and customers.