Job Title: Director of Engineering & Maintenance
Department: Operations
Reports To: Chief Operation Officer
Site: Hazelwood, MO
FLSA Status: Exempt Summary:
Cérélia's newly established Frozen Breakfast Business Unit is driving an ambitious growth strategy, backed by two manufacturing facilities: US Waffle in Liberty, SC, and in Hazelwood, MO. To effectively support the rapid scaling of operations at our state-of-the-art Hazelwood facility, Cérélia is seeking a dynamic and skilled Director of Engineering & Maintenance to join our team in Hazelwood, MO.

The Director of Engineering & Maintenance is a key member of the leadership team responsible for overseeing all engineering and maintenance operations across the plant. This role ensures the reliability, efficiency, and safety of production equipment, utilities, and facilities while driving continuous improvement and capital projects. The Director will lead a team of engineering and maintenance professionals, fostering a culture of safety, quality, and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Team Development

• Build, lead, and develop a high-performing engineering and maintenance team focused on safety, quality, and efficiency.
• Coach, mentor, and motivate team members; attract and retain top technical talent.
• Promote a collaborative, “team-first” culture across departments.

Engineering & Maintenance Operations

• Oversee all plant maintenance activities, including preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance programs to minimize downtime.
• Ensure proper troubleshooting and repair of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and production line equipment.
• Establish and maintain engineering standards for equipment design, installation, and modification.
• Manage spare parts inventory and ensure accurate technical documentation for all equipment and systems.

Capital Projects & Budget Management

• Develop and execute capital expenditure plans and budgets.
• Lead design, planning, and implementation of capital projects to expand manufacturing capacity and capabilities.
• Prepare, monitor, and analyze budgets for engineering and maintenance operations.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with GMP, SQF, HACCP, WSIB, CFIA, and other regulatory standards.
• Drive continuous improvement in operational safety and food safety practices.
• Maintain readiness for audits and inspections at all times.

Continuous Improvement & Innovation

• Utilize Lean and continuous improvement tools to optimize processes and achieve KPI targets.
• Identify and implement new technologies and process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with production, quality assurance, and other departments to support operational goals.
• Participate in production and food safety meetings, providing technical input and solutions.
• Manage relationships with contractors and service providers.

Job Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering (or related discipline).
• Minimum 5–7 years of leadership experience in engineering and maintenance within a food manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems, GMP, HACCP, SQF/GFSI standards.
• Proven experience managing capital projects and budgets.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; CAD experience preferred.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and overtime as needed.

Direct Reports
The Director of Engineering & Maintenance will have direct responsibility for managing the following roles:

Other duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
This is a Full Time Exempt 40 hour per week position, and it may require working additional hours depending on the needs of the business.

TRAVEL
This position may require minimal travel.