Plant Maintenance Manager – Protein​/Food Manufacturing

Maintenance Manager – Manufacturing | Protein Processing | Cherokee, IA

Location: Cherokee, IA (Onsite)
Salary: $135K–$200K + 0–17% Bonus (up to $225K for top talent)
Shift: Primarily 1st shift (7 AM–5 PM, M–F), with occasional weekends

We are seeking a hands-on Maintenance Manager to lead plant maintenance operations for a high-volume protein processing facility. You will oversee equipment, building, and process maintenance, coordinate plant layout changes, and manage capital and expense projects—all while ensuring compliance with OSHA and safety regulations
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• Lead maintenance team to ensure efficient plant operations and equipment reliability
• Develop and implement maintenance practices for production lines, facilities, and grounds
• Manage capital projects, expense budgets, and vendor/contractor relationships
• Ensure compliance with safety and regulatory requirements, including OSHA standards
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, refrigeration, and PLC systems
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve operational issues

• Minimum 5 years of management experience in manufacturing maintenance, ideally in breeder/batter protein or food processing
• Hands‑on experience with ammonia refrigeration, protein production, electrical & mechanical systems
• Knowledge of CAD and PLC equipment
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem‑solving skills
• Ability to work in temperatures from -40°F to 110°F and noisy manufacturing environments
• Computer literacy with Excel and MS Word

• RETA CIRO or IIAR ARM (Ammonia Refrigeration)
• OSHA 30‑Hour or Process Safety Management (PSM)
• NCCER Electrical Technician or Industrial Maintenance Mechanic

• Competitive salary with bonus potential
• Opportunity to lead a skilled maintenance team in a growing facility
• Career growth in the food manufacturing/protein industry