Operations Technical Manager

Overview The Operations Technical Manager is a senior leadership role responsible for driving operational excellence across maintenance, engineering, capital execution, and continuous improvement initiatives within a high-volume manufacturing environment. This individual provides technical leadership and cross-functional direction to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient plant operations while optimizing asset performance, reducing costs, and improving overall productivity. This role plays a critical part in shaping plant capability by ensuring the effective integration of mechanical, electrical, and systems engineering expertise into daily operations. The leader will champion safety, quality, sanitation, regulatory compliance, and operational reliability while driving long-term improvements in equipment performance and manufacturing flow. Location On-site role based in Monett, Missouri Relocation Support $10,000 relocation bonus available for candidates relocating more than 50 miles Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership & Technical Oversight Provide 24/7 technical leadership across plant maintenance and engineering functions in a continuous manufacturing environment Ensure mechanical and electrical expertise is consistently available to support production systems, utilities, buildings, and grounds Lead and manage maintenance operations supporting high-speed production, utilities, refrigeration systems, and packaging/material handling equipment Oversee Maintenance Mechanic and Maintenance Planner functions, ensuring strong performance management, development, and team effectiveness Maintenance Strategy & Reliability Excellence Drive standardization of maintenance best practices, policies, and procedures across the plant Improve equipment reliability, production quality, safety performance, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) using Continuous Improvement methodologies Fully leverage Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) systems to optimize maintenance planning, execution, and tracking Lead preventive and predictive maintenance strategies to reduce downtime and improve asset performance Capital Projects & Engineering Execution Lead and oversee capital project execution from concept through implementation Develop and manage improvement plans that include both capital and non‑capital initiatives Optimize plant layout, flow manufacturing, and asset utilization to eliminate bottlenecks and improve throughput Ensure effective execution of engineering projects impacting automation, utilities, and production systems Continuous Improvement & Lean Manufacturing Champion Lean Manufacturing principles, including Value Stream Mapping and process optimization Identify and implement productivity improvements that reduce labor and overhead costs Drive initiatives that improve manufacturing flow, eliminate waste, and enhance operational efficiency Partner with cross-functional teams to deliver short‑ and long‑term improvement roadmaps Food Safety, Quality & Compliance Ensure full compliance with Food Safety and Food Quality standards, including customer and regulatory requirements Establish, audit, and maintain PCPs, CCPs, SOPs, and sanitation procedures Lead investigations into process deviations and drive corrective and preventive actions Ensure compliance with FDA, GMP, AIB, and internal quality systems People Leadership & Capability Development Lead, coach, and develop maintenance and technical teams in a 24/7 operational environment Drive training initiatives focused on new technologies, including automation, electrical controls, and manufacturing systems Support workforce planning, performance management, and talent development within the technical organization Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement Cross-Functional & Business Partnership Partner with Operations, Quality, Engineering, and Supply Chain teams to align technical strategies with business objectives Participate in contract-related discussions, including labor relations activities where applicable Influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization through strong communication and technical expertise Drive data-informed decision-making to support capital planning and operational priorities Qualifications Required Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related technical field 5–10+ years of experience in engineering, maintenance, operations, or process excellence roles Minimum of 5+ years in a leadership or management role within manufacturing Strong technical knowledge of manufacturing systems, utilities, and production environments Proven experience improving OEE, reliability, safety, and productivity metrics Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement methodologies Ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive initiatives to completion Proficiency with AutoCAD and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) Ability to travel up to 15% Preferred Experience in high-speed manufacturing environments Background in FDA/GMP/AIB-regulated industries Certification or training in Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt/Black Belt preferred) Strong financial acumen and understanding of cost drivers in manufacturing operations Experience with automation and electrical control systems Exposure to labor relations or union environments What Makes This Role Unique This is a high-impact leadership opportunity for a technically strong operations leader who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. You will play a pivotal role in shaping plant performance by integrating engineering, maintenance, and continuous improvement strategies that directly impact safety, quality, and productivity. This role is ideal for a leader who can balance hands‑on technical expertise with strategic operational leadership, while driving measurable improvements across a complex, 24/7 production facility. Benefits 401(k) with strong employer match Employee stock ownership program (ESOP) Performance-based incentive opportunities Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage (no waiting period) Wellness programs and fitness reimbursement Paid vacation and holidays Relocation assistance Professional development and education support #J-18808-Ljbffr