Plant Maintenance Manager Protein / Food Manufacturing

Maintenance Manager – Manufacturing | Protein Processing | Cherokee, IA

Location: Cherokee, IA (Onsite)
Salary: $135K–$200K + 0–17% Bonus (up to $225K for top talent)
Shift: Primarily 1st shift (7 AM–5 PM, M–F), with occasional weekends

About the Role:
We are seeking a hands-on Maintenance Manager to lead plant maintenance operations for a high-volume protein processing facility. You will oversee equipment, building, and process maintenance, coordinate plant layout changes, and manage capital and expense projects—all while ensuring compliance with OSHA and safety regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead maintenance team to ensure efficient plant operations and equipment reliability
• Develop and implement maintenance practices for production lines, facilities, and grounds
• Manage capital projects, expense budgets, and vendor/contractor relationships
• Ensure compliance with safety and regulatory requirements, including OSHA standards
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, refrigeration, and PLC systems
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve operational issues

Requirements:

• Minimum 5 years of management experience in manufacturing maintenance, ideally in breeder/batter protein or food processing
• Hands-on experience with ammonia refrigeration, protein production, electrical & mechanical systems
• Knowledge of CAD and PLC equipment
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work in temperatures from -40F to 110F and noisy manufacturing environments
• Computer literacy with Excel and MS Word

Preferred Certifications:

• RETA CIRO or IIAR ARM (Ammonia Refrigeration)
• OSHA 30-Hour or Process Safety Management (PSM)
• NCCER Electrical Technician or Industrial Maintenance Mechanic

Why Join Us:

• Competitive salary with bonus potential
• Opportunity to lead a skilled maintenance team in a growing facility
• Career growth in the food manufacturing/protein industry