Maintenance Manager

Job Title: Maintenance Manager Department: Maintenance / Engineering Reports To: Plant Manager Industry: Dairy Processing Job Summary: The Maintenance Manager is responsible for leading the maintenance team in the upkeep, repair, and continuous improvement of all equipment, utilities, and infrastructure within a dairy processing facility. The role ensures high equipment availability, compliance with safety and food quality standards, and the implementation of preventative and predictive maintenance programs. Key Responsibilities: Maintenance Planning & Execution: Develop and manage a comprehensive preventive maintenance schedule. Oversee all mechanical, electrical, and utility systems (e.g., refrigeration, boilers, CIP systems, pasteurizers, separators, homogenizers). Minimize downtime and ensure operational continuity. Team Leadership: Lead, supervise, and develop a team of maintenance technicians and engineers. Coordinate training to maintain technical competence in line with new technologies. Compliance & Safety: Ensure compliance with food safety (e.g., FSSAI, HACCP), quality, and environmental regulations. Enforce safety policies and conduct risk assessments. Maintain documentation for audits and inspections. Budget & Inventory Control: Prepare and manage the maintenance budget. Monitor spare parts inventory and procurement to minimize downtime. Continuous Improvement: Implement reliability-centered maintenance (RCM) and root cause analysis (RCA) practices. Support TPM (Total Productive Maintenance), 5S, and Lean initiatives. Coordination & Communication: Work closely with production, quality, and engineering departments to plan maintenance activities with minimal disruption. Communicate effectively with external vendors and contractors. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering or related field. 10+ years of experience in maintenance leadership, preferably in the dairy or food processing industry. Strong knowledge of dairy equipment and utilities (ammonia refrigeration, steam systems, etc.). Familiarity with CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems). Working knowledge of GMP, HACCP, and other food industry compliance standards. Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills. Preferred Skills: Experience with automation systems (PLC, SCADA). Project management capabilities. Knowledge of energy management and sustainability practices