Plant Maintenance Leader

Lumberton, North Carolina

$120,000 to $150,000+Full benefits package provided+ Paid Relocation

Overview

A leading Manufacturing & Production company is seeking a highly experienced and results-driven Plant Maintenance Leader to oversee all aspects of maintenance, repair, and continuous improvement for a large, 400,000 sq. ft. facility. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, deep technical expertise, and a proven ability to drive operational efficiency while ensuring strict compliance with all safety and regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Facility Maintenance & Operations: Oversee the maintenance, repair, and upgrade of all facility systems and production equipment. Manage vendor relationships, ensure cost control, and drive efficiency across all maintenance operations.

• Team Leadership & Development: Supervise, mentor, and actively develop a team of maintenance personnel, including approximately 20 direct reports and 15 indirect reports, to achieve operational excellence and foster a high-performing environment.

• Budget & Performance Management: Closely monitor and manage key maintenance-related metrics, including adherence to the Maintenance & Repair (M&R) budget and cost-per-pound targets.

• Compliance & Safety: Implement, enforce, and maintain robust safety programs. Ensure full compliance with USDA, HACCP, and all other relevant regulatory and pre-operation guidelines.

• Project Oversight: Manage the effective execution of facility maintenance projects, including coordinating weekend rebuilds and working directly with M&R vendors.

Required Qualifications

Experience & Education

• 7+ years of progressive maintenance management experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment. Experience in poultry or food processing is strongly preferred.

• A proven track record of successfully managing an entire shift or full maintenance operation.

• Must have experience managing staff (Direct and Indirect).

• 1–3 years of hands-on experience with refrigeration and electrical systems.

• Bachelor’s degree in Maintenance, Engineering, or a related field preferred (equivalent experience will be considered).

Technical & Leadership Skills

The following technical skills and knowledge are required:

• Full understanding of the theory, practical knowledge, and skills to function as a master-level mechanic.

• Possesses advanced general maintenance skills, including welding, pneumatics, wiring, motor controls, and PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) experience.

• Strong financial acumen with experience in maintenance cost analysis (Agristats knowledge is a plus).

• In-depth knowledge of HACCP, USDA sanitation, and pre-operation guidelines.

• Must be able and willing to be on the plant floor, actively teaching, observing, and mentoring the team.