Assistant Maintenance Manager

Assistant Plant Engineer

Location: Kalamazoo, Michigan

Work Type: Full-Time, On-Site

Join our dynamic team as an Assistant Plant Engineer and make a direct impact on our manufacturing operations. In this leadership role, you'll oversee maintenance and engineering activities across our food processing facility, directing a team of skilled technicians while ensuring operational excellence, food safety compliance, and continuous improvement. This is an ideal opportunity for an engineering professional ready to grow into a key leadership position within a quality-focused organization.

• Direct, coordinate, and facilitate maintenance, repair, and installation activities for machinery, equipment, buildings, electrical systems, and HVAC infrastructure
• Manage departmental budgets and resources to optimize operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness
• Develop and execute strategic maintenance plans including preventative maintenance, repairs, fabrication, modifications, and equipment installations to ensure uninterrupted production
• Provide technical leadership and drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operations, reduce costs, and maximize resource utilization
• Collaborate with management on new product planning, equipment needs assessment, and facility modifications
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety procedures and GMP standards during all maintenance activities in processing areas
• Champion a zero-injury workplace culture by promoting and enforcing all safety, GMP, and food safety compliance requirements
• Maintain compliance with applicable state and federal regulations
• Foster a culture of mutual respect, teamwork, and professionalism aligned with company values
• Analyze operational data using various systems and software to inform decision-making and process improvements
• Apply continuous improvement methodologies such as Six Sigma, Lean, and Kaizen to drive operational excellence

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering or equivalent professional experience
• 3+ years of experience in a management or leadership role
• 5+ years of experience in an industrial environment, preferably in food manufacturing
• Excellent oral, written, and presentation communication skills
• Proficiency in MS Office and SAP systems

• Experience with continuous improvement methodologies such as Six Sigma (DMAIC), Lean (Kaizen events, Value Stream Mapping, 5S)
• Advanced technical certifications in maintenance or engineering disciplines
• Experience with food safety management systems

• Competitive wages commensurate with experience
• Employer-matched 401(k) package and life insurance options
• Comprehensive healthcare plan including dental and vision coverage
• Safe, inclusive, and respectful work environment
• Clear opportunities for professional growth and career advancement