Maintenance Manager

Overview:

A leading food and beverage manufacturing facility in Grand Rapids, MI is seeking a proactive and experienced Maintenance Manager. This role is responsible for leading the maintenance department, ensuring equipment reliability, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership, technical expertise, and a passion for operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and develop a high-performing maintenance team to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Maintain all production and facility equipment in optimal working condition, adhering to vendor specifications and safety standards.
• Establish departmental goals aligned with broader organizational objectives.
• Implement and oversee a predictive and preventive maintenance program to minimize downtime and extend asset life.
• Utilize systems (e.g., SAP or CMMS) for effective maintenance planning, including task scheduling, parts management, and documentation.
• Stay current with industry best practices and drive continuous improvement toward world-class maintenance standards.
• Act as the escalation point for emergency maintenance issues.
• Collaborate with engineering and leadership on equipment upgrades and replacements to enhance performance and reduce costs.
• Manage spare parts inventory and maintenance supply procurement.
• Monitor and control maintenance-related expenses and contribute to capital planning.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, sanitation, and regulatory requirements.
• Develop and enforce maintenance policies and procedures.
• Optimize maintenance schedules to balance preventive care and urgent repairs while managing labor costs.
• Supervise and support maintenance staff, including hiring, training, performance management, and labor relations (if applicable).

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 5-8 years of experience in maintenance or mechanical engineering, with at least 3 years in a managerial role.
• Background in food and beverage manufacturing or a similar regulated industry preferred.
• Familiarity with high-speed production equipment, pneumatics, hydraulics, and blow mold machines.
• Proficiency in PLCs (especially Allen Bradley), including reading and editing ladder logic.
• Experience with ammonia refrigeration systems and HTST pasteurization is a plus.
• Knowledge of fabrication, welding, and machining techniques is advantageous.
• Strong computer skills, including Excel and CMMS platforms.
• Understanding of GMP, safety regulations, and union environments.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams through change and drive continuous improvement initiatives.