Plant Engineer Lead - Maintenance, TPM & Optimization

CareerNerds, LLC; Wilson (NC); On-site; USD 140,000 - 172,000; Full time

Job summary

CareerNerds, LLC is seeking a Plant Engineer in Wilson, NC to lead the maintenance and engineering functions of a high‑performing food manufacturing operation.

You will drive capital projects, implement cutting-edge maintenance programs, and guide a team to deliver reliable production while meeting safety and environmental standards. The role blends technical leadership with strategic problem‑solving to optimize plant performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field with 8+ years of experience.
• 2+ years of demonstrated experience in team management or project leadership.
• Strong leadership, planning, teamwork, analytical reasoning, and adaptability.
• Advanced technical skills in mechanical/electrical fields (PLCs, instrumentation).
• Knowledge of maintenance systems (preventive/predictive maintenance, TPM).
• Proficient with Microsoft Office, especially Excel and Word.

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of capital projects from concept to completion, ensuring on-time delivery and safety compliance.
• Lead development and implementation of maintenance systems (Preventive/Predictive, TPM) to maximize uptime.
• Manage the maintenance team, delegate tasks, and enforce policies for safe, efficient work.
• Provide short- and long-term solutions to operational challenges and equipment issues.
• Develop and track KPIs to measure maintenance performance and drive continuous improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Project leadership

Analytical reasoning

Adaptability

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Excel

Word

Job description

CareerNerds, LLC is seeking a Plant Engineer in Wilson, NC to lead the maintenance and engineering functions of a high‑performing food manufacturing operation.

You will drive capital projects, implement cutting-edge maintenance programs, and guide a team to deliver reliable production while meeting safety and environmental standards. The role blends technical leadership with strategic problem‑solving to optimize plant performance.