Director of Technical Services

Qualifications & Experience:

• Extensive experience in food manufacturing with deep process knowledge; experience in cultured dairy products is a plus.
• 3 years of experience at the director level, leading technical services, plant maintenance, automation, and utilities.
• 10 years of experience in plant manufacturing and maintenance.
• Bachelor’s degree in an Engineering discipline.
• Strong expertise in MRP and ERP systems.
• Working knowledge of HACCP, food safety standards, and regulatory compliance.
• Advanced understanding of PLC and logic controls for high-speed production equipment.
• Applied experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, pull systems, Kanban, process mapping, and standard work methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and manage manufacturing operations budgets.

The Senior Director of Technical Services will provide strategic leadership and oversight for manufacturing engineering, automation, utilities, wastewater, MRO, and spare parts inventory management. This role requires a results-driven leader with deep technical expertise, a strong executive presence, and the ability to drive operational excellence. The primary objective is to enhance plant efficiency, minimize downtime, and control repair costs while upholding the highest standards of food safety and quality.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the technical services organization, overseeing both direct and indirect functions.
• Develop and implement a Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) program in collaboration with operations leadership.
• Optimize inventory management, including planning and tracking MRO budgets and expenditures.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using data-driven analysis and deploying automation and manufacturing engineering resources.
• Ensure effective collaboration with R&D, Quality, Engineering, Procurement, and Product Supply teams to support key performance initiatives.
• Foster a culture of safety, compliance, and regulatory adherence across all technical functions.
• Champion Lean manufacturing principles, leading the TPM pillar within the operational framework.
• Structure and develop the technical services team to align with business objectives, ensuring a high-performing organization.
• Provide senior-level leadership to train and mentor engineers, technicians, and cross-functional teams.
• Establish and maintain preventive maintenance schedules, quality metrics, and performance standards.
• Work closely with senior operational leadership on critical site transformation initiatives.
• Manage long-term capital projects, including oversight of the Wastewater Recovery and Recycle Facility (WRRF).
• Represent the facility in engagements with state and local officials and industry leaders.