Maintenance Manager - Forest Products Manufacturing

Maintenance Manager Reports directly to the Mill Manager and oversees all aspects of the maintenance department, including supervising millwrights, electricians, the saw filing team, and parts procurement.

The Manager ensures optimal machine performance, reliability, and safety within the mill. This role involves planning, budgeting, and implementing preventive maintenance schedules, minimizing equipment downtime, and ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the facility.

Key Responsibilities :

Department Leadership & Supervision : Lead and manage the maintenance team, including millwrights, electricians, saw filers, and parts clerks.

Provide coaching, mentorship, and performance evaluations to maintenance personnel. Ensure staff adhere to all safety standards and company policies during maintenance and repair work.

Collaborate with human resources to manage staffing needs, including hiring, training, and performance management.

Maintenance Planning & Coordination : Oversee the development and implementation of preventive maintenance schedules to optimize equipment uptime and reliability.

Ensure timely repairs, troubleshooting, and emergency responses to minimize operational downtime. Oversee saw filing operations, ensuring the sharpening, repair, and maintenance of saw blades meet production standards.

Work closely with mill management to prioritize and schedule maintenance activities in alignment with production goals.

Equipment Installation & Upgrades : Lead the installation of new machinery and equipment upgrades, coordinating with vendors and contractors as needed.

Identify and recommend improvements to mechanical, electrical, and filing processes for greater efficiency and productivity.

Budgeting & Cost Control : Develop and manage the maintenance budget, including labor, equipment, parts, and supplies. Monitor and control maintenance expenditures to ensure cost efficiency while maintaining high operational standards.

Oversee parts procurement and inventory management, ensuring an adequate supply of critical spare parts and tools.

Safety & Compliance : Ensure compliance with OSHA, environmental, and other regulatory safety standards. Conduct safety inspections and audits of machinery, electrical systems, and other equipment.

Documentation & Reporting : Maintain comprehensive records of all maintenance activities, including repairs, preventive maintenance, and equipment inspections.

Prepare and present regular reports on equipment performance, maintenance costs, and upcoming needs to senior management.

Utilize CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems) to track maintenance tasks and generate work orders.

Qualifications

• Education : Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field is preferred. A combination of education and extensive relevant experience.
• Experience : At least five (5) years in Forest Products industrial maintenance, with at least three (3) years in a leadership or management role.

Proven ability to lead, develop, and motivate a diverse maintenance team. Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally with mill management, vendors, and external contractors.

Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to prioritize under pressure.

Skills : Deep knowledge of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems used in a lumber mill. Strong understanding of saw filing processes and equipment maintenance.

Familiarity with CMMS software and other maintenance tracking tools. Ability to read and interpret technical blueprints, schematics, and electrical diagrams.

Physical Requirements

• Sitting, standing, and walking are regularly required for this position.
• Regular work in an industrial mill setting with exposure to noise, dust, and other typical conditions.

Benefits : Medical, Dental, Vision, and basic life premiums paid by the Company for employees only.