Plant Engineer

SUMMARY

The Plant Engineer Leads and manages the maintenance department in a collaborative, fast paced manufacturing environment. Responsible for the performance of all capital assets at the manufacturing plant.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Assures that all systems and equipment in the facility are in top operational condition. Manages the maintenance and repair of all production equipment including: all packaging and processing assets; warehouse and order fulfilment assets; the building and grounds; janitorial services; HVAC; and utility support services. Schedules repair, maintenance, and installation to ensure continuous production operations. Maintains files and records of preventive and routine maintenance schedules, work completed, equipment manuals, warranties, etc. Ensures proper troubleshooting of systems/equipment to minimize down-time and eliminate re-occurring of problems.
• Manages the maintenance department’s budget, including cost of spare parts and outside services.
• Manages maintenance projects including expense, continuous improvement modifications and capital projects. Reports on potential problems and progress on current projects in a timely manner. Coordinates implementation with customer group.
• Ensures compliance of the pest control program. Checks plant premises for possible pest entry or presence and arranges suitable counter measures.
• Collaborates with the Maintenance Mechanics to prioritize work and share manpower in support of maintenance at all sites.
• Assists in the planning, development, and implementation of new methods and procedures designed to improve operations, minimize operating costs, and effect greater utilization of machinery, labor, and materials. Meets all department KPI’s; reviews maintenance results for the week, including downtime, efficiencies, overtime and expenses.
• Manages the maintenance shop supply inventory and the equipment parts inventory.
• Ensures all maintenance procedures are updated and comply with food safety standards.
• Manages a team comprised of mechanics.
• Manages investigation of product contamination by lubricants, metal or any other foreign materials.
• Assists in the procurement and liquidation of operations and production equipment, as well as equipment, furnishings, and fixtures at the retail stores. Works with VP on new and used equipment installation and rebuild projects.
• Works with engineering on new construction or remodeling projects for all locations. Develops and evaluates bids from subcontractors including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, etc.
• Fosters a productive, healthy working relationship with the maintenance department customers.
• Establishes best-in-class maintenance processes.
• Enhances and utilizes the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS), to engage in all facets of maintenance including; preventative/predictive maintenance, storeroom inventory, and technical documentation.
• Leads and directs the workforce in implementing continuous improvement measures. Instills a root cause mentality to all problem solving.
• Serves as a mentor and coach to ensure the ongoing development of his/her team.
• Ensures compliance with all codes, ordinances, OSHA regulations, and safety rules for work performed by maintenance staff or subcontractors. Ensures that all equipment has the necessary safety devices such as guards, safety switches, covers, etc.
• Ensures his/her team (as well as self) complies with safety and cGMP requirements.

SAFETY RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT

Supports a culture of safety; follows all workplace health and safety procedures. Responsible for safety performance in respective area. Ensures the implementation of, adherence to, and enforcement of workplace health and safety requirements. Ensures activities are completed to promote and enforce safe behaviors by supervisors and employees. Ensures injury prevention efforts are effectively implemented. Fulfills responsibilities as outlined in the company safety management plan.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Directly manages the Maintenance mechanics. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Food manufacturing and powders experience.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

Food manufacturing and powders experience is a big plus

Bachelor's degree (B.S. or B.A.) and at least seven years’ experience in a GMP environment. Course work or equivalent experience with basic concepts of engineering and physical science required. Minimum of five years prior leadership and supervisory experience required. Food manufacturing and powders experience is a big plus

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing with individuals at all levels of the organization as well as with vendors, contractors and outside agencies.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Ability to work with mathematical and engineering concepts.

REASONING ABILITY

Excellent problem solving and analytical skills required. Ability to utilize common sense and rational logic when making decisions.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong mechanical / electrical skills
• Proven experience in project management execution
• Experience in predictive/preventive maintenance programs and with Lean initiatives
• Knowledge of safety related issues including compliance with local, state and federal regulations
• Developing and implementing department budgets
• Self-motivated, confident, energetic and possess the ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic team environment
• Must be able to work extended hours and weekends as required
• Strong leadership and team building skills
• Technically oriented, comfortable around machinery and plant environment
• Ability to think strategically while understanding the big picture
• Ability to work well under pressure with multiple projects and deadlines
• Ability to prioritize and execute upon aggressive goals, objectives, and action items
• Must be flexible in adapting to changing environments
• Intermediate proficiency in Word, Excel and PowerPoint skills
• Food manufacturing and powders experience is a big plus

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to communicate with management and staff, write and use a telephone and a computer. The employee frequently is required to move from place to place within the facility.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works near moving mechanical parts. The employee is frequently exposed to herbal aromas, dust, and/or airborne particles.