Lead Plant Engineer

Job Location/Shift: 6am - 2:30pmJob Salary: Up to $165k DOERequirements: 5+ years of engineering experience in a high speed packaging facility focused on maintenance and automationOur facility is Commerce today and moving to La Mirada in JulyWho We AreWe are a premier, mission-driven food manufacturing organization dedicated to nourishing communities across California. We operate with a "business for good" mindset, focusing on social responsibility and high-quality nutrition rather than just the bottom line. We are a stable, high-growth leader in the fresh-prepared meal space, currently producing over 35 million nutritious meals annually for schools and community programs.We've grown fast, and now we need a technical leader to help us level up our infrastructure. We are moving into a new facility this summer and are looking for a motivated Engineering Lead to implement the systems and reliability standards needed to keep us moving forward. You'll have the autonomy to manage cutting-edge technology-including new robotics integrations, AI-integrated automation and vision systems-with the full support of leadership to execute your vision. For a leader who can drive uptime and build a world-class preventative maintenance program, this role offers a path to very quick advancement. At our company, your ideas matter, your hard work pays off, and your growth is our priority.What You Will DoLead the Technical Frontline: Direct daily maintenance operations, overseeing a team of technicians to ensure 24/7 reliability for high-speed production lines.Drive Reliability & Automation: Act as the lead for facility automation and robotics (Chef Robotics), troubleshooting complex PLC systems and electro-mechanical equipment to maximize OEE.Implement Systems: Own the CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System) to transition the facility from reactive repairs to a data-driven Preventative Maintenance (PM) culture.Ensure Safety & Compliance: Enforce strict LOTO, OSHA, and SQF standards to maintain a safe working environment and ensure all equipment meets USDA/FDA sanitary design requirements.Optimize & Scale: Manage MRO inventory and vendor relationships while leading technical projects for our upcoming transition to a new facility in La Mirada.What You Need for This JobExperience: 5+ years of engineering in high-volume food manufacturing (ideally in a high-speed packaging environment).Technical Depth: Expert-level knowledge of PLC troubleshooting (Allen-Bradley), pneumatics, hydraulics, and automated systemsLeadership: A hands-on mentor who prefers being on the floor coaching technicians and solving "root-cause" issues alongside the team.Communication: Bilingual in English and Spanish is required to effectively lead and coordinate with our diverse staff.Education: A college degree in Engineering, Industrial Management, or a related technical field is required.BenefitsVacation/PTOMedical, Dental, Vision401k with employer matchBonusRelocation