Maintenance Lead

About the role

The Maintenance Lead is responsible for leading the day-to-day maintenance operations of the production facility, ensuring all machinery and equipment run safely, efficiently, and with minimal downtime. This role requires hands-on mechanical and electrical expertise, the ability to read and interpret technical manuals, blueprints, schematics, and equipment prints, and the leadership skills to guide, train, and coordinate a team of maintenance technicians in a fast-paced production environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead, schedule, and coordinate the daily activities of the maintenance team across all shifts.
• Read and interpret technical manuals, OEM documentation, electrical schematics, blueprints, and equipment prints to guide repairs, installations, and troubleshooting.
• Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems on packing and production line equipment.
• Develop and execute a preventive maintenance (PM) program to reduce unplanned downtime and extend equipment life.
• Respond quickly to equipment breakdowns and lead troubleshooting efforts to restore production with minimal delay.
• Maintain accurate maintenance logs, work orders, PM records, and parts usage documentation.
• Manage spare parts inventory; order parts and coordinate with vendors and outside contractors as needed.
• Train, mentor, and evaluate maintenance technicians.
• Partner with Production and Operations leadership to prioritize repairs and minimize impact on the packing/production schedule.
• Identify and recommend equipment upgrades, process improvements, and cost-saving opportunities.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe maintenance shop and work area.
• Communicate directly with equipment manufacturers, outside vendors, and third-party maintenance providers regarding machine repairs, service needs, troubleshooting, and technical support.
• Schedule and coordinate vendor visits, maintenance appointments, inspections, repairs, and other service activities, ensuring timely access to equipment and clear communication between the vendor and internal team.

Requirements

• 2+ years of industrial maintenance experience in a manufacturing or production facility; food/packing facility experience a plus.
• Proven experience working on and troubleshooting production/packing machinery (conveyors, packaging equipment, motors, pumps, PLCs, etc.).
• Demonstrated ability to read and work from manuals, blueprints, schematics, and equipment prints.
• Solid working knowledge of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.
• Prior leadership, supervisory, or lead-technician experience preferred.
• Forklift certification a plus (or willingness to obtain).
• High school diploma or GED required; technical/trade school certification preferred.
• Must be Bilingual (English/Spanish) given the facility's workforce.
• Strong organizational and communication skills; able to direct a team under time pressure.