Chief Engineer

This role is hosted by Christine McNamara.

About us

The Chief Engineer is responsible for leading all maintenance and engineering functions within a high-volume food manufacturing facility. This role ensures optimal equipment reliability, production efficiency, and compliance with safety and food quality standards. The Chief Engineer will oversee maintenance teams, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and provide hands-on technical expertise across electrical, mechanical, and control systems.

Why join us?

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
• Annual bonus
• Generous PTO
• 401k with company match

Responsibilities

• Lead, supervise, and develop the maintenance team across multiple shifts, ensuring high performance and accountability
• Oversee all preventive and corrective maintenance activities to maximize equipment uptime and production efficiency
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex electrical, mechanical, and control system issues, including 3-phase 480VAC systems, 110VAC/24VDC control circuits, and Allen-Bradley PLCs
• Manage maintenance of conveyors, motors, gearboxes, plumbing systems, and plant utilities
• Read and interpret schematics and blueprints to diagnose issues and implement solutions
• Ensure compliance with all safety, food safety, and regulatory standards (GMPs, OSHA, etc.)
• Coordinate capital projects, equipment installations, and process improvements
• Maintain accurate documentation, reports, and maintenance records using MS Office tools
• Collaborate with production and leadership teams to support operational goals and continuous improvement
• Provide hands-on support in welding, fabrication, and machining tasks as needed

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or related field preferred
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment; bakery or food manufacturing experience strongly preferred
• Minimum 5 years of supervisory or management experience in maintenance or engineering

Skills

• Strong electrical troubleshooting skills, including 3-phase 480VAC, control circuits, and PLC systems (Allen-Bradley preferred)
• Proficiency in welding (TIG and stick), cutting (torch, band saw, grinder, plasma), and basic fabrication
• Experience with drilling, milling, and machining equipment (drill press, lathe, mill)
• Solid knowledge of maintenance systems including electrical, controls, hydraulics, pneumatics, conveyors, and mechanical systems
• Proficient in MS Office (Outlook, Excel, Word)
• Strong leadership, communication, and team development skills
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
• Hands-on problem solver with strong troubleshooting abilities
• Commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence

Pay

$115,000 - $130,000 per year