Supervisor - Utility and Wastewater (Maintenance)

Schedule

Monday–Friday, 5:00 am–2:00 pm. Willingness to work weekends and after hours for emergency repairs and off‑shift coverage as required.

About the role

Freshpet is seeking a Facilities and Utilities Supervisor with deep knowledge of facilities, utilities, and wastewater systems. The role demands strong organizational and time‑management skills, natural leadership, clear communication, and meticulous attention to detail. You will oversee day‑to‑day activities of facility mechanics, utility technicians, wastewater operators, and outside contractors to ensure timely, high‑quality completion of tasks.

Responsibilities

• Oversee operations, maintenance, and scheduling of refrigeration (NH₃ and HVAC), compressed air, steam, water, and wastewater treatment systems.
• Supervise urgent or breakdown work to keep equipment running and minimize downtime.
• Schedule and supervise work arranged through the Maintenance Planner to support Freshpet and Chicken Processing utilities and wastewater.
• Coordinate with the Planner on anticipated jobs and advise when stores stocks need to be increased or altered to maintain maintenance schedules.
• Develop direct reports, motivate staff, and provide technical assistance for expedient problem resolution.
• Determine appropriate training by evaluating employee skills, abilities, safety practices, and behavior.
• Plan staff schedules including work assignments, training, vacation, and overtime.
• Enforce plant rules, policies, and health & safety protocols during operations and maintenance to minimize injuries and lost‑time incidents.
• Drive continuous improvement and 5S projects to enhance processes and maintenance.
• Participate fully as a member of the Process Safety Management (PSM) team and safety committee.
• Provide ongoing operational and maintenance support for facilities, utilities, and wastewater across all shifts.
• Ensure department tools and equipment are in good condition and that adequate consumable stocks are maintained.

Requirements

• High school diploma; job‑specific vocational training desired.
• 8+ years combined manufacturing, maintenance, and technical experience.
• 5+ years ammonia refrigeration, steam, compressed air, water treatment operations and maintenance, including troubleshooting and emergency protocol experience.
• Certifications in relevant areas highly desired.
• Prior supervisory experience, preferably in food and/or beverage industry.
• Ability to multi‑task and lead technicians with or without direct authority.
• Ability to troubleshoot electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and mechanical systems.
• Ability to read P&IDs, general layout drawings, equipment parts diagrams, and other technical documentation.
• Working knowledge of CMMS and BMS systems; familiarity with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Ability to operate forklift, scissor lift, and boom lift.
• Physical capability to walk, climb equipment, work in confined spaces, and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to meet respirator requirements, including shaving facial hair for training and emergency situations.

Pay

Salary range: $90,000 – $115,000 per year. Final compensation based on work location, experience, skill set, and comparable wage rates.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Basic and optional life insurance
• Short‑ and long‑term disability protection
• Flexible spending accounts
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Paid parental leave
• Pet insurance
• Tuition assistance
• Generous PTO plan