Maintenance Lead Technician

Job Summary:

The Maintenance Lead is responsible for ensuring the optimal performance, safety, and reliability of all equipment, machinery, and facilities within our commercial bakery. This role performs daily maintenance operations, including preventive maintenance planning, timely response to equipment failures, inventory management of critical parts, and adherence to food safety and regulatory compliance. The Lead will support uninterrupted bakery operations and drive continuous improvement in maintenance practices.

Key Responsibilities:

• Schedule, perform, and monitor preventive and corrective maintenance tasks for bakery equipment, including ovens, fryers, mixers, conveyors, proofers, and packaging systems
• Troubleshoot and repair electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems
• Collaborate with other departments (QA, Production, Safety) to ensure operational efficiency
• Ensure all maintenance work complies with safety, sanitation, and food-grade standards (e.g., GMP, HACCP, OSHA)
• Assist in the continuous development and improvement of our preventive maintenance programs
• Maintain accurate PM records
• Monitor and manage spare parts inventory, coordinate procurement of supplies and equipment
• Assist with capital improvement projects, equipment installations, and upgrades
• Collaborate with production, QA, and sanitation teams to minimize downtime and support continuous improvement efforts
• Follow best practices, safety protocols, and technical procedures
• Participate in audits and inspections; implement corrective actions as needed
• Attend daily staff meetings
• Assist with other tasks as directed by Plant Manager

Qualifications:

• Minimum 5 years of maintenance experience in a food manufacturing or commercial bakery setting.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certifications or vocational training preferred
• In-depth knowledge of bakery production equipment, electrical systems, PLCs, pneumatics, and HVAC systems
• Strong understanding of food safety regulations and maintenance standards in a food-grade facility
• Proven problem-solving and organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with team members
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings or weekends, as operational needs require

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs unassisted
• Comfortable working in hot, cold, and humid environments
• Capable of standing, walking, bending, reaching and climbing ladders for extended periods of time

Benefits:

As a member of our team, you will be eligible for the following benefits:

• 10 days of paid time off per year (PTO)
• Minnesota Sick and Safe Time
• 6 paid company holidays (New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day)
• Company contribution to a Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Join us as a Maintenance Lead Technician if you’re driven by technical challenges, thrive in a collaborative environment, and are committed to maintaining the highest standards of operational excellence!

Pay: $65,000.00 - $72,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person