At Circle U Foods, we’re passionate about delivering high-quality products and outstanding service. Our mission is simple: exceed expectations through innovation, efficiency, and a commitment to food safety.

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We’re proud of our inclusive culture that celebrates diversity and empowers our team to thrive. We strive to create an environment that drives accountability and continuous improvement.

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With a focus on safety, transparency, and ethical practices, we partner with our customers and stakeholders to build lasting value. Circle U Foods is more than a business—we’re a family dedicated to making a positive impact in our industry and community.

Job Summary: The Maintenance Manager is responsible for overseeing all installation, repair, and maintenance operations for our facility’s equipment and infrastructure. This role involves ensuring the reliability and functionality of machinery, implementing preventive maintenance programs, and managing repair activities to minimize downtime. Key responsibilities include developing and enforcing maintenance procedures, coordinating with production and quality teams, and leading continuous improvement initiatives to enhance equipment performance and safety. The ideal candidate will possess strong technical expertise, hands-on experience with food manufacturing equipment, and the ability to effectively manage a team in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities, Skills, and Experience:  

Facility and Equipment Management

• Oversee all production equipment, facility infrastructure, and project management.
• Ensure proper maintenance, repair, and continuous operation of facility and production equipment.
• Make recommendations for equipment modifications, repairs, and new installations to improve operational efficiency.
• Conduct general facility maintenance, including tasks like changing air filters and replacing door handles.

Maintenance Planning and Scheduling

• Develop and review daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance schedules.
• Assign tasks to the team, monitor task completion, and ensure adherence to the maintenance schedule.
• Conduct maintenance planning meetings to align on priorities and address any scheduling challenges.
• Provide coverage for technicians when necessary to ensure ongoing maintenance support.

Continuous Improvement and Training

• Lead and train team members in continuous improvement processes and tools focused on reliability and maintenance.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, maintaining a proactive approach to equipment reliability and efficiency.

Technical Skills and Troubleshooting

• Read product manuals and apply technical knowledge to repair and maintain equipment.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical and electrical breakdowns, perform root cause analysis, and address issues promptly.
• Proficient in:
• • Reading mechanical drawings, including hydraulics and pneumatics.
  • Electrical schematics up to 480V 3-phase troubleshooting and wiring.
  • PLC troubleshooting and program understanding.
  • Working with mechanical systems (gearboxes, chains, sprockets, motors, seals, bearings) and sanitary pumps.
  • Operating and maintaining forklifts and air compressors.
  • Troubleshooting conveyors, palletizing equipment, and case packers as needed.

Safety and Compliance

• Adhere to all safety regulations and ensure clean, orderly work areas in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Implement and monitor Preventative Predictive Maintenance (PPM) work orders, auditing completed work to ensure quality.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and quality control standards as mandated for equipment installation, modification, testing, inspection, and maintenance.

Collaboration and Leadership

• Direct mechanics in executing approved maintenance work, overseeing quality, cost, duration, and thoroughness.
• Communicate effectively, demonstrating attention to detail and fostering a collaborative work environment.
• Maintain a positive attitude while managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities.

Working Conditions:

• Work involves daily exposure to unusual elements, such as dirt, dust, fumes, and/or noise.
• Daily exposure to physical risks, such as working around mechanical equipment, forklifts and electrical hazards.
• Requires the ability to stand; walking around office and plant; lifting and carrying packages up to 50 pounds; utilizing fine dexterity; and reaching, kneeling, crawling and twisting.
• Must be able to work flexible schedule to include days, afternoons, night and weekend work, including the possibility of overtime.

Other Duties:  

• Follow food safety and quality protocols.  
• Follow GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices), housekeeping and safe work practices.  
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Education, Experience, and Technical Skills:

o   Minimum of 2 years of management experience required.

o   High school diploma or GED required; additional technical certifications preferred.

o   Minimum of 10 years of experience in manufacturing maintenance required.

o   Engineering background or relevant technical training is strongly preferred.

o   Experience with maintenance management software preferred.

o   HVAC and plumbing experience is a plus.

• Food Manufacturing and Technical Expertise:

o   Prior experience in food manufacturing is essential, with a thorough understanding of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and food safety standards.

o   Strong technical knowledge in electronics, controls, hydraulics, mechanical, and electrical components commonly found in food production equipment.

o   Must have proficiency in troubleshooting and maintaining electrical systems up to 480V 3-phase.

o   Must have experience in PLC troubleshooting and programming.

o   Experience with form-fill-seal machines is a plus.

o   Proficiency in reading and interpreting engineering schematics, mechanical drawings, and technical documentation is required.

• Physical Requirements:

o   Able to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physically demanding tasks, including standing, bending, lifting, and twisting throughout the shift.

o   Comfortable with flexible scheduling, including days, nights, weekends, and the possibility of overtime.

• Soft Skills and Personal Attributes:

o   Empathetic and Kind: Creates a supportive and understanding work environment.

o   Effective Communicator: Able to clearly convey information and instructions across teams and departments.

o   Collaborative and Team-Oriented: Works well with others, fostering a cooperative work environment.

o   Patient and Adaptable: Demonstrates flexibility and resilience, especially in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

o   Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills: Applies logical thinking and engineering principles to make sound decisions under pressure.

o   Self-Aware: Understands personal strengths and areas for growth, contributing to a continuous improvement mindset.

• Computer Literacy:

o   Proficient with computer applications relevant to maintenance, including software used for scheduling, tracking, and documenting maintenance work.