Maintenance Engineer

Synthite; Ernakulam; On-site; INR 400,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

Synthite in Kerala, India, is looking for a Mechanical Engineer to oversee maintenance and reliability of plant machinery. This role involves executing preventive maintenance, optimizing equipment performance, and supporting new projects while ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.

The ideal candidate has a B.E./B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering and 3-8 years of experience in manufacturing settings, especially in food processing or chemical industries. Strong analytical skills and teamwork abilities are essential.

Qualifications

• 3 to 8 years of experience in manufacturing/process industries.
• Experience in food processing, chemical, extraction, FMCG, pharmaceutical, or allied industries preferred.

Responsibilities

• Execute preventive, predictive, and breakdown maintenance activities for production equipment.
• Ensure maximum equipment uptime and improve Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE).
• Analyze recurring equipment failures and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with EHS policies, GMP, food safety standards.
• Coordinate with external vendors and contractors for maintenance and project activities.

Skills

Mechanical maintenance and troubleshooting

Problem-solving and analytical thinking

Planning and execution excellence

Teamwork and collaboration

Education

B.E./B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Engineering drawings

Job description

To ensure reliable, safe, and efficient operation of plant machinery, utilities, and mechanical systems by driving preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, equipment optimization, project execution, and continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing facilities. The role supports production continuity, operational excellence, and compliance with safety and quality standards. Synthite operates multiple manufacturing facilities focused on spice extracts, oleoresins, essential oils, flavors, and natural ingredient solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Plant Maintenance & Reliability

• Execute preventive, predictive, and breakdown maintenance activities for production equipment and utility systems.
• Ensure maximum equipment uptime and improve Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE).
• Analyze recurring equipment failures and implement corrective actions.
• Maintain maintenance records, equipment history, and spare parts inventory.

Utilities & Equipment Management

• Monitor and maintain pumps, compressors, boilers, heat exchangers, pressure vessels, pipelines, and utility systems.
• Ensure efficient operation of steam, chilled water, compressed air, and other utility networks.
• Coordinate statutory inspections and certifications of mechanical equipment.

Projects & Engineering

• Support installation, commissioning, and qualification of new machinery and plant expansion projects.
• Prepare technical specifications, review vendor proposals, and monitor project execution.
• Drive cost optimization and energy conservation initiatives.

Process Improvement

• Identify opportunities for process optimization and equipment enhancement.
• Implement reliability-centered maintenance (RCM) and continuous improvement projects.
• Participate in root cause analysis (RCA) and corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with EHS policies, GMP, food safety standards, and statutory regulations.
• Conduct safety inspections and risk assessments related to mechanical systems.
• Promote safe work practices among employees and contractors.

Vendor & Contractor Management

• Coordinate with external vendors and contractors for maintenance and project activities.
• Monitor contractor performance, quality, and safety compliance.
• Manage procurement of mechanical spares and services.

Qualifications

• B.E./B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering.
• 3 to 8 years of experience in manufacturing/process industries.
• Experience in food processing, chemical, extraction, FMCG, pharmaceutical, or allied industries preferred.

Technical Competencies

• Mechanical maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Pumps, compressors, gearboxes, conveyors, and rotating equipment.
• Utility systems and piping networks.
• AutoCAD and engineering drawings.
• Preventive and predictive maintenance techniques.
• Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and reliability engineering.
• Project management and equipment commissioning.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and statutory requirements.

Behavioral Competencies

• Problem-solving and analytical thinking.
• Planning and execution excellence.
• Teamwork and collaboration.
• Ownership and accountability.
• Continuous improvement mindset.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Equipment uptime and availability.
• Preventive maintenance compliance.
• Breakdown reduction.
• Maintenance cost optimization.
• Project completion within budget and timeline.
• Energy efficiency improvements.
• Safety and compliance performance.