Manager, Engineering & Maintenance

About Us

At Ajinomoto Cambrooke, we build careers grounded in helping improve people’s health through nutritional therapies. Founded by parents looking to develop better solutions for their children with PKU, we have expanded into additional therapeutic areas with a focus on enjoyable nutrition as a core part of normalizing life for people living with medical conditions. Joining ACI means becoming part of a diverse team of talented people who want to build their careers while contributing positively to society. We seek individuals who bring an entrepreneurial mindset with a bias for action and finding solutions. We provide an environment based in mutual respect and collaboration to support you and give you opportunities to learn and develop.

About the Role

The Engineering and Maintenance Manager is a hands-on leader responsible for the performance of the engineering, maintenance, and facilities functions. This role develops engineering strategic project scopes and actionable plans to support current and future CAPEX investments, implements best practices, procedures, and controls in project, maintenance, and facility management, and works closely with functional leaders and plant employees in Production, Quality, Logistics, Supply Chain, HR, and other support functions. The position also establishes and manages the department’s budget to ensure financial targets are met or exceeded.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement engineering strategic project scopes and actionable plans to support CAPEX investments.
• Implement best practices, procedures, and controls in project, maintenance, and facility management (e.g., Installation, Operation Qualification, risk management, FAT, preventive maintenance plans, spare parts inventories, CMMS, and work order systems).
• Manage all CAPEX and expense projects (e.g., Safety, Quality, Cost Improvements) to meet scope, budget, and timelines.
• Establish and utilize Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for driving improvements in CAPEX management and equipment reliability.
• Lead the Maintenance Department in implementing best practices in preventive and work order management.
• Manage the departmental budget to ensure budgets are met or exceeded.
• Create and deliver CAPEX plans to support plant expansion and performance, ensuring production goals, quality systems, employee safety, and environmental protection.
• Ensure team alignment with plant goals through stable operations, continuous improvement, and employee training and mentoring.
• Develop a high-productivity workforce through hiring, training, performance evaluation, morale activities, and discipline.
• Adhere to systems for planning, scheduling, implementing, verifying, and closing projects.
• Manage the review of bids and selection process for third-party vendors.
• Lead and support root cause analysis, investigation, CAPA, and troubleshooting.
• Plan, schedule, execute, and coordinate technical resources for project delivery.
• Define requirements for new designs, processes, and maintenance schedules in collaboration with Maintenance and equipment suppliers.
• Provide input on planning for new products, manufacturing equipment, and unit operations.
• Test newly installed machines and equipment to ensure fulfillment of contract specifications.
• Coordinate and manage line installations, start-ups, and decommissioning events.
• Develop Standard Operating Procedures for equipment operation, parameter settings, preventive maintenance, predictive analysis, and work order scheduling.
• Design, develop, and execute engineering projects, including calculations, diagrams, technical reports, and regulatory documents.
• Provide technical support and direction for budget setting (monthly, annual, or MTP).
• Monitor safety practices of team members and contractors, providing corrective action for unsafe practices and communicating concerns to management.
• Maintain a positive work environment and resolve problems to ensure timely completion of work.
• Develop annual goals and objectives for automation staff and provide quarterly feedback.
• Maintain compliance with state, federal, and AJICO guidelines and regulations.
• Maintain ISO 9001, 14001, 45000, and FSSC 22000 status for all control systems documentation.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• BS in Chemical, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 7+ years’ experience in a manufacturing and/or construction environment.
• 7+ years’ experience in an aseptic and/or powder manufacturing environment (preferred).
• 7+ years’ experience with mechanical and electrical systems in a multitude of applications.
• 5+ years’ supervisory or team lead experience in maintenance.

Skills

• Expertise in project planning, resource planning, budget management, milestone generation, risk management, FAT, project assessment, and validation.
• Advanced Mechanical and Electrical skills; PLC knowledge is a plus.
• Experience validating aseptic and/or powder manufacturing equipment and processes (preferred).
• Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and familiarity with standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Ability to transfer technical knowledge to practical applications.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, maintaining high morale and discipline.
• Technical expertise in industrial processes, including unit operations, controls, facility infrastructure, equipment reliability, maintenance practices, safety, quality, environmental, and utility equipment.
• Ability to lead and manage all aspects of projects, including creation, design, proposal, execution, and review.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• High degree of scientific and technical proficiency.
• Ability to record, report, and analyze reliable data.
• Flexibility to work a varied schedule, be on-call, and travel as necessary (5% travel required).
• “Can do” attitude.

Working Conditions

This position works in a food manufacturing environment and requires adherence to all GMP, Food Safety, workplace safety, and security policies, including wearing required personal protective equipment while meeting GMP standards. Work must be performed safely to protect both personal and team member safety. All safety procedures, SOPs, JHAs, and ISO standards must be followed, enforced, and strictly complied with.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform repetitive motions, lift up to 50 pounds, and occasionally maneuver drums in excess of 50 pounds with team assistance.
• Ability to stand and walk on concrete floors, bend, reach, push, and pull.
• Proficiency in using a computer, telephone, calculator, hand tools, and measuring devices.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and annual bonus opportunity (up to 15%).
• 401(k) with company contributions.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance effective on day 1.
• Paid time off, company holidays, and floating holidays.
• Paid parental leave.
• Wellness programs and yearly wellness reimbursement.
• Work flexibility.
• Company-paid life and disability insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Tuition reimbursement opportunities.
• Career growth and development within a global organization.
• Company-provided mental health and caregiving support.

Pay

$128,600.00 - $155,000.00 annually plus 15% bonus potential.