Maintenance Lead

About Kerry

Kerry is the world's leading taste and nutrition company for the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries. Every day we partner with customers to create healthier, tastier and more sustainable products that are consumed by billions of people across the world. Our vision is to be our customers' most valued partner, creating a world of sustainable nutrition. A career with Kerry offers you an opportunity to shape the future of food while providing you opportunities to explore and grow in a truly global environment.

About the role

The Maintenance Lead position is in Manitowoc, Wisconsin and reports to the Maintenance Manager. They oversee the daily activities of the maintenance department, affirming all safety, GMP, and quality standards are followed. This plant operates within our Smoke and Taste division and has around 120 employees and operates 24/7 except for company holidays.

Key responsibilities

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Manages Maintenance Department labor and other resources to efficiently schedule and complete repairs, maintenance, and installation of machinery, equipment, and plant facilities to ensure continuous company operations.

Supervises and assists fabricating or modifying machines, tools, or equipment to improve existing processes, following design standards for food safety.

Directs maintenance activities on utility systems to meet all applicable codes, and to provide safe, continuous supply of heat, steam, electric power, gas, air, etc., required for operations.

Assists in developing and managing the preventative maintenance program in conjunction with the Maintenance Planner and maintenance staff.

Includes production, quality control, and maintenance reports and statistics to identify and help schedule and complete needed repairs and maintenance activities.

Inspects operating machines and equipment for conformance with safety, quality, and operational standards and makes repairs as necessary.

Working with department supervisors, plans, develops, and recommends new methods and procedures designed to improve operations, minimize operating costs, and effect greater utilization of labor and materials.

Reviews new product plans and discusses equipment needs and modifications with Production Supervisor.

Ensures that adequate tools, equipment, and supplies for plant maintenance and repairs are provided and maintained in an orderly and secure manner.

Supervises department employees regarding safety practices and personnel issues such as job assignments, productivity, proper procedures, and required paperwork.

Oversees training and cross-training for employees to give optimum coverage for each job, and for department supervision. Attends meetings as requested. Participates in performance reviews, hiring, and disciplinary decisions, following established company policies.

Works with the Maintenance Planner, other supervisors and team leaders to coordinate maintenance and repair activity with other departments.

Coordinates with Plant Manager on employee compliance with all company policies and procedures, including, but not limited to, safety, GMP’s, equipment certification, and the Employee Handbook.

Qualifications and skills

Bachelor’s degree preferred. Associate's degree and/or certifications preferred. Minimum 3 years of experience in a leadership position preferred or a combination of maintenance technician and leadership experience. Demonstrated success in developing/implementing continuous improvement initiatives and accountability programs Demonstrated success assessing, developing and retaining top talent Proven ability to drive process improvements, adhere to budgets, and maintain regulatory compliance Proven ability to lead with the following key competencies: Critical Thinking, Continuous Cost Focus, Technical Expertise, Influence and Delivery of Sustainable Results Food industry experience preferred