Lead Maintenance Superintendent – Food Plant Reliability

Farmer Focus; Harrisonburg (VA); On-site; USD 115,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Farmer Focus is seeking a Maintenance Superintendent to lead a maintenance team, ensure reliable production equipment, and uphold safety and cleanliness in our processing facilities.

Responsibilities include preventive maintenance, budget management, SOP enforcement, and cross-functional collaboration to reduce downtime and improve plant efficiency. This role requires strong leadership, regulatory awareness, and a proactive, hands-on approach.

Qualifications

• Minimum three (3) years of relevant progressive maintenance supervision experience in a manufacturing setting preferred; five (5) or more years of experience in the food industry or protein industry strongly preferred.
• Minimum three (3) years of experience managing a large team across multiple shifts.
• Knowledge of food processing systems highly preferred.
• Knowledge of relevant regulatory requirements governing the food industry and a thorough understanding of required support for maintaining utility functions, such as refrigeration/freezing systems, boilers, HVAC, and PLC controls; experience with bread and batter equipment is a plus.
• Strong customer focus with the ability to communicate with all levels of the organization in a timely and professional manner.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to resolve issues efficiently and effectively.
• Proficient computer skills with knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Excel and Word; maintenance work order and parts inventory system knowledge preferred.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment using excellent organizational skills and precise attention to detail.
• Strong customer-centric attitude, high energy level, and strong sense of urgency.

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain the preventive maintenance program to ensure machinery is kept in optimal and safe working condition.
• Determine work order priorities and schedule repairs, maintenance, and installation of machines and equipment to minimize disruption to manufacturing operations.
• Supervise maintenance department personnel in day-to-day operations to ensure minimal downtime and costs while supporting accountability, productivity, and efficiency.
• Manage the department budget within approved limits; monitor spending and recommend cost-saving and standardization methods.
• Identify and implement cost reduction opportunities in conjunction with operating teams.
• Establish and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to regulate the maintenance function within the processing plant.
• Mentor, coach, train, and cross-train employees to encourage career development; provide consistent feedback concerning strengths and areas for improvement.
• Administer performance improvement plans and disciplinary actions on a fair and consistent basis.
• Follow, promote, and ensure subordinates adhere to all safety initiatives, helping maintain a zero-accident culture.
• Establish, communicate, and maintain expectations that support safety, company standards, and clear direction for employees.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Work within the framework of Farmer Focus CARES values: Community, Accountability, Respect, Excellence, and Stewardship.

Skills

Maintenance supervision

Team leadership

Regulatory compliance

Food processing knowledge

Communication skills

PC skills ( MS Office )

Tools

Work order systems

Parts inventory systems

Job description

Farmer Focus is seeking a Maintenance Superintendent to lead a maintenance team, ensure reliable production equipment, and uphold safety and cleanliness in our processing facilities.

Responsibilities include preventive maintenance, budget management, SOP enforcement, and cross-functional collaboration to reduce downtime and improve plant efficiency. This role requires strong leadership, regulatory awareness, and a proactive, hands-on approach.