Are you ready to pioneer the maintenance operations of a startup facility? Join us as our Maintenance Manager and play a pivotal role in shaping the foundation of our operations. As we embark on this exciting journey of growth and innovation, we're seeking a skilled individual who thrives in dynamic environments, possesses a passion for problem-solving, and is eager to make a lasting impact.

Who We Are

FedUp Foods, one of the nation's early producers of kombucha through the Buchi brand, and one of the largest functional beverage manufacturers in America, offers a diverse portfolio of organic private label functional beverages for top global retailers.

Position Summary

As the Maintenance Manager, you will be part of the core team responsible for the launch of FedUp Foods 2nd production facility in Wilmington, NC. From getting current infrastructure serviced and operational to overseeing the installation of new equipment and support systems this role will be critical to the operational success of this facility. Ongoing you will be responsible for ensuring optimal operational efficiency of production equipment and facility systems. Your role involves managing a team of maintenance technicians, developing store room programs, and overseeing budgetary aspects of the maintenance department and facility repairs. You will troubleshoot equipment issues in real-time, provide hands-on support for daily production challenges, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives. Additionally, your responsibilities include executing ongoing minor construction projects, implementing preventative maintenance programs, and evaluating manufacturing performance data for systemic issue resolution.

The ideal candidate is an energetic, servant minded manager with a passion for building systems from the ground up, the tenacity to see projects through to completion, and a commitment to innovation with high standards of quality and integrity.

Skilled Duties/Responsibilities

• Lead capital projects for facility, production equipment installation or modifications.
• Manage and coach a team of maintenance technicians, leveraging their strengths effectively.
• Partner with production line operators to meet schedules and identify root cause issues.
• Demonstrate leadership by assisting and teaching basic preventative maintenance procedures to operators.
• Prepare and maintain production equipment and facility systems for peak operational efficiency.
• Develop and enhance the store room program and parts kitting process.
• Manage budgets for the maintenance department and facility repairs.
• Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic issues in real-time.
• Provide hands-on support for daily production challenges and recommend solutions for continuous improvement.
• Develop and implement the preventative maintenance program.
• Manage spare parts inventory, assist with ordering, and forecast capital expenditures.
• Evaluate manufacturing performance data and recommend solutions for systemic issues.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, GMPs, SOPs, and other established processes.
• Assess workplace safety, collaborate with the safety partners, and maintain compliance programs.
• Comply with all health, safety, security, and emergency requirements.
• Identify process improvements for cost savings, efficiency, and safety.
• Ensure proper documentation, record-keeping, and data entry is up to date in the correct system.
• Communicate and coordinate with outside vendors as needed.
• Ensure facility maintenance and safe work conditions.
• Assist other production areas and equipment operators as needed.

Food Safety and Quality Responsibilities

• Follow GMP policy when in the production facility and encourage your team to do the same.
• Understand our SQF policies relating to pest control, visitors, allergen management, and cleaning and sanitation.
• Demonstrate awareness of Management's Commitment to SQF and work towards Food Safety and Quality and help the company meet this commitment.
• If there is a problem that involves food quality and safety, report to the Packaging Manager so that the CAPA (corrective action, preventative action) log may be filled out, the situation be investigated, and resolved with the goal of continuous improvement of food quality and safety.

Required Skills/Abilities

• Self-directed and personally motivated, with a keen attention to detail.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment.
• Comfortable learning new equipment and mechanical systems, with the ability to troubleshoot under pressure.
• Experienced in operating a variety of equipment, including forklifts, scissor lifts, pallet jacks, and other rental equipment commonly used in construction and maintenance settings.
• Strong working knowledge of electricity, specifically 220v and above.
• Basic understanding of plumbing systems and installation.
• Familiarity with industrial refrigeration, especially glycol-based refrigeration.
• Knowledge of compliance programs related to contractor management, work at heights, LOTO (Lockout/Tagout), Hot Work, and Arc Flash Compliance.
• Understanding of food safety, workplace safety, and adherence to food quality standards, with a preference for prior exposure or certifications in GMP and HACCP application. Familiarity with SQF policies is a bonus.
• Proven track record of developing and sustaining systems and processes to ensure maintenance compliance, along with proficiency in proper PM (Preventive Maintenance) and work order completion.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED required
• Minimum 7yrs progressive experience in a similar role in a manufacturing environment in beverage, or brewing industry.

Work Environment/Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must remain aware of forklifts and pallet jack traffic
• Noisy; some areas may be dusty. May encounter extreme swings in temperature.
• Requires standing, walking, pushing, pulling, walking on wet surfaces and lifting on occasion.
• Occasional lifting and maneuvering of heavy equipment and/or parts.
• Ability to work outside in inclement weather on occasion.
• Ability to partner lift up to 50 pounds

EEO Statement

AKM provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties as directed to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience level:

• 7 years

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Work setting:

• In-person

Ability to Relocate:

• Wilmington, NC 28401: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person