Plant Manager

MalaceHR is seeking an experienced and hands-on Plant Manager to oversee daily facility operations, coordinate contractors and vendors, and support the maintenance and repair of building systems and equipment.

The ideal candidate will have a strong mechanical background combined with experience managing outside contractors, coordinating maintenance activities, and ensuring facility equipment operates safely and efficiently.

This is a hands-on management position requiring someone who is equally comfortable overseeing vendors and contractors as they are rolling up their sleeves and performing mechanical repairs.

We are looking for a mechanically inclined leader who can identify equipment issues, troubleshoot problems, perform repairs, and coordinate outside service providers when necessary. This individual should be comfortable managing daily facility operations while remaining actively involved in maintenance activities.

Key Responsibilities

Plant Operations & Maintenance

• Oversee the daily operation, maintenance, and repair of facility equipment and building systems.

• Perform hands-on troubleshooting, maintenance, and mechanical repairs as needed.

• Inspect and maintain mechanical equipment, pumps, motors, HVAC systems, plumbing, and other facility infrastructure.

• Diagnose equipment issues and determine whether repairs can be completed internally or require outside contractors.

• Assist with preventative maintenance activities to minimize equipment downtime and unexpected failures.

• Respond to equipment breakdowns, maintenance concerns, and urgent repair requests.

• Monitor facility conditions and identify opportunities to improve equipment reliability and performance.

• Perform routine equipment inspections and ensure necessary repairs are completed.

• Work directly with tools and equipment when maintenance support is needed.

Contractor & Vendor Management

• Oversee outside contractors, service technicians, and vendors performing maintenance, repairs, and facility improvements.

• Coordinate vendor schedules, service visits, and maintenance projects.

• Ensure contractors complete assigned work safely, efficiently, and according to expectations.

• Review contractor work, verify completed repairs, and address any outstanding issues.

• Obtain and review service quotes, repair estimates, and proposals.

• Maintain strong working relationships with vendors and service providers.

• Coordinate repairs requiring specialized contractors, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical services.

• Monitor contractor performance, service quality, and project timelines.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for vendors and contractors working on-site.

Facility Management & Coordination

• Manage daily facility maintenance priorities and coordinate necessary repairs.

• Communicate with management regarding equipment conditions, maintenance concerns, and facility needs.

• Develop and maintain preventative maintenance schedules.

• Track maintenance activities, work orders, equipment repairs, and service history.

• Assist with managing maintenance budgets, repair costs, and facility expenses.

• Coordinate equipment shutdowns, scheduled maintenance, and facility improvement projects.

• Ensure building systems and equipment are maintained in a safe and operational condition.

• Maintain an organized inventory of tools, maintenance supplies, and replacement parts.

• Ensure compliance with established safety procedures and facility maintenance standards.

• Identify opportunities to improve maintenance processes and reduce operating costs.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in facilities maintenance, mechanical maintenance, plant operations, or a related field preferred.

• Previous experience as a Plant Manager, Facilities Manager, Maintenance Manager, Chief Engineer, Maintenance Supervisor, or Lead Maintenance Technician preferred.

• Strong hands-on mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting experience required.

• Experience performing mechanical maintenance and repairs using hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic equipment.

• Working knowledge of HVAC, plumbing, pumps, motors, and general building mechanical systems.

• Experience coordinating outside contractors, vendors, and service providers.

• Ability to diagnose equipment problems and determine appropriate repair solutions.

• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to manage multiple maintenance priorities while remaining involved in hands-on work.

• Experience coordinating preventative maintenance and equipment repairs.

• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and maintenance management software.

• Understanding of workplace safety practices and proper maintenance procedures.

• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions regarding facility maintenance needs.

• High school diploma or GED required; technical training or trade certifications preferred.

Preferred Experience

• Hands-on mechanical or industrial maintenance.

• Commercial or industrial facility operations.

• Contractor and vendor coordination.

• HVAC systems, pumps, motors, compressors, and mechanical equipment.

• Basic electrical and plumbing troubleshooting.

• Preventative maintenance planning and scheduling.

• Facilities maintenance supervision or management.

• Equipment troubleshooting and mechanical repairs.

• Managing maintenance budgets and vendor service agreements.

• Experience using computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).

• Experience working in manufacturing plants, commercial facilities, institutional buildings, or large campus environments.