Senior Maintenance Manager

JOB PURPOSE

As the Maintenance Manager at Unilever’s Independence, MO factory, you’ll lead the charge in ensuring our operations run reliably, safely, and efficiently—24/7. You’ll oversee a skilled team of technicians, planners, and supervisors, managing both day-to-day maintenance and long-term reliability strategies in a unionized, high-output foods manufacturing environment.

This is more than a leadership role— it’s your opportunity to make a lasting impact by modernizing infrastructure, leading and supporting capital projects, and embedding world-class maintenance practices to shape the future of a site that’s critical to Unilever’s Foods in North American supply chain. You’ll be a key player in our journey toward operational excellence, sustainability, and innovation, empowering teams and building the next generation of technical leaders. If you’re driven by purpose and thrive in a dynamic, hands-on environment, we want you on our team.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead technical teams and manage associated budgets to optimize site assets and infrastructure.
• Support the execution of capital projects and innovation initiatives.
• Collaborate with regional RVS teams as part of the broader network.
• Develop and implement plans to improve site infrastructure, contracts, and contractor performance using Unilever Manufacturing methodologies.
• Coach and develop site personnel on technical and technological matters.
• Manage site initiatives, budgets, and master plan strategies.
• Partner with Operations and cross-functional teams to improve line efficiencies, reduce waste, and control costs.
• Oversee all maintenance procedures and operations, ensuring machinery meets performance standards.
• Establish, publish, and track performance metrics using CMMS systems; follow up on results to drive improvements.
• Develop and implement preventive maintenance routines and procedures to minimize breakdowns and optimize efficiency.
• Build and mentor high-performing teams, preparing future maintenance leaders for the organization.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or equivalent education with demonstrated experience.
• Demonstrated ability to drive continuous improvement and manage performance losses.
• 5–10+ years of professional experience in maintenance and organizational management within FMCG or related manufacturing industries.
• Minimum of 5 years in a maintenance leadership role, with a strong track record of developing talent.
• Proven success in executing maintenance processes within Unilever or similar FMCG environments.
• Strong engineering and technical skills.
• Expertise in maintenance systems and maintenance management practices.
• Proficient in budget management and cost control.
• Demonstrated ability to drive continuous improvement and manage performance losses.
• Key skills: Leadership, Communication, Persuasion, Project Management, Analytical/System Thinking.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCES/SKILLS

• Experience in a 24/7 foods manufacturing or similar high-demand environment.
• Experience working in unionized facilities is preferred.
• Professional Engineer status or membership in a recognized engineering institution.
• Knowledge of facility systems and infrastructure.
• Experience implementing Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS).
• Structured thinking and work approach.
• Self-motivated with a strong focus on problem-solving.

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At Unilever, inclusion is at the heart of everything we do. We welcome applicants from all walks of life and are committed to creating an environment where everyone can thrive/succeed. All applicants will receive fair and respectful consideration, and we actively support the growth and development of every employee.

Unilever is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Persons with Disabilities.

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If you are an individual with a disability in need of assistance at any time during our recruitment process, please contact us at NA.Accommodations@unilever.com. Please note: This email is reserved for individuals with disabilities in need of assistance and is not a means of inquiry about positions or application statuses. The Protected Veterans or Individuals with Disabilities AAP narratives are available for inspection by any employee or applicant for employment Monday through Friday during normal business hours at establishment.