Senior Maintenance Manager

Unilever • Independence, MO

6d • Onsite

About The Position

As the Senior 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. You’ll be part of a team that believes in doing work that matters — for people and the planet. Because here, we don’t just hire for jobs. We invite you to be part of something bigger.

Requirements

• 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.
• HS Diploma. Bachelor’s degree in engineering or equivalent education with demonstrated experience is preferred.
• 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.

Nice To Haves

• 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.

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.

Benefits

• Unilever employees are eligible to participate in our benefits plan. Should the employee choose to participate, they can choose from a range of benefits to include, but is not limited to, health insurance (including prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage), retirement savings benefits, life insurance and disability benefits, parental leave, sick leave, paid vacation and holidays, as well as access to numerous voluntary benefits. Any coverages for health insurance and retirement benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level