Assistant Plant Engineer

Assistant Plant Engineer

Location: Kalamazoo, Michigan

Work Type: Full-Time, On-Site

About This Opportunity

Join our dynamic team as an Assistant Plant Engineer and make a direct impact on our manufacturing operations. In this leadership role, you'll oversee maintenance and engineering activities across our food processing facility, directing a team of skilled technicians while ensuring operational excellence, food safety compliance, and continuous improvement. This is an ideal opportunity for an engineering professional ready to grow into a key leadership position within a quality-focused organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct, coordinate, and facilitate maintenance, repair, and installation activities for machinery, equipment, buildings, electrical systems, and HVAC infrastructure
• Manage departmental budgets and resources to optimize operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness
• Develop and execute strategic maintenance plans including preventative maintenance, repairs, fabrication, modifications, and equipment installations to ensure uninterrupted production
• Provide technical leadership and drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operations, reduce costs, and maximize resource utilization
• Collaborate with management on new product planning, equipment needs assessment, and facility modifications
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety procedures and GMP standards during all maintenance activities in processing areas
• Champion a zero-injury workplace culture by promoting and enforcing all safety, GMP, and food safety compliance requirements
• Maintain compliance with applicable state and federal regulations
• Foster a culture of mutual respect, teamwork, and professionalism aligned with company values
• Analyze operational data using various systems and software to inform decision-making and process improvements
• Apply continuous improvement methodologies such as Six Sigma, Lean, and Kaizen to drive operational excellence

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering or equivalent professional experience
• 3+ years of experience in a management or leadership role
• 5+ years of experience in an industrial environment, preferably in food manufacturing
• Excellent oral, written, and presentation communication skills
• Proficiency in MS Office and SAP systems

Nice-to-Have Skills

• Experience with continuous improvement methodologies such as Six Sigma (DMAIC), Lean (Kaizen events, Value Stream Mapping, 5S)
• Advanced technical certifications in maintenance or engineering disciplines
• Experience with food safety management systems

What We Offer

• Competitive wages commensurate with experience
• Employer-matched 401(k) package and life insurance options
• Comprehensive healthcare plan including dental and vision coverage
• Safe, inclusive, and respectful work environment
• Clear opportunities for professional growth and career advancement

Ready to Apply?

If you meet the qualifications and are excited about this opportunity to lead our maintenance operations, we'd love to hear from you. Submit your resume and a brief cover letter today to join our team in Kalamazoo, Michigan.