Sr. Engineering Manager

A leading food and beverage manufacturer is seeking a Senior Manager of Engineering & Maintenance to lead plant engineering, maintenance, reliability, utilities, and capital project activities at a large-scale production facility. This newly created leadership role will oversee maintenance supervisors, technicians, and engineering initiatives while driving equipment reliability, operational performance, and long-term asset strategy.The successful candidate will partner closely with plant leadership to improve safety, productivity, quality, and overall equipment effectiveness while fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Key Responsibilities Lead all engineering, maintenance, utilities, and facilities functions in a 24/7 manufacturing environment.Develop and execute reliability strategies, including preventive and predictive maintenance programs, to maximize asset performance and reduce unplanned downtime.Utilize CMMS and maintenance management systems to optimize maintenance planning, scheduling, and equipment utilization.Partner with operations and leadership teams to improve equipment reliability, production efficiency, safety, and quality performance.Identify, prioritize, and lead capital improvement projects that enhance productivity, capacity, safety, and operational effectiveness.Develop project scopes, schedules, budgets, and implementation plans for facility and equipment upgrades.Manage department budgets, maintenance spending, and resource allocation.Evaluate equipment performance, lifecycle costs, and replacement strategies to support long-term business objectives.Manage relationships with contractors, vendors, and suppliers while negotiating project and service agreements.Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, food safety, and regulatory requirements.Develop, coach, and lead maintenance and engineering personnel through performance management, succession planning, and employee development initiatives.Support labor relations activities where applicable, including contract administration and workforce-related matters. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline preferred.8+ years of engineering, maintenance, or reliability leadership experience within a manufacturing environment.Prior experience leading maintenance teams and supervisors.Strong background in food, beverage, dairy, or other highly regulated manufacturing environments preferred.Experience managing maintenance budgets, capital projects, and continuous improvement initiatives.Proven ability to scope, budget, schedule, and execute plant capital projects.Knowledge of industrial electrical systems, motor controls, automation, and PLC troubleshooting.Experience with CMMS, SAP, AutoCAD, or similar engineering and maintenance systems.Understanding of ammonia refrigeration systems and industrial boiler operations.Knowledge of wastewater treatment processes, environmental compliance, and utility systems.Strong leadership, communication, project management, and strategic planning skills.Experience supporting safety programs and regulatory compliance within manufacturing operations. What the Company Offers Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package.Retirement savings program with employer contribution.Paid time off and company holidays.Tuition assistance and professional development opportunities.Opportunity to lead a critical manufacturing function with significant influence on plant performance.Career advancement opportunities within a growing organization focused on operational excellence and employee development.