Supervisor - Utility and Wastewater (Maintenance)

Freshpet Talent Acquisition•Ennis, TX

2d•$90,000 - $115,000

About The Position

Freshpet is hiring a Supervisor - Utility and Wastewater to oversee facilities, utilities, and wastewater operations and maintenance. The role leads facility mechanics, utility technicians, wastewater operators, and outside contractors, and supports the operation of refrigeration (NH3 and HVAC), compressed air, steam, water, and wastewater treatment systems. The supervisor schedules and oversees work, responds to urgent breakdowns, develops employees, and ensures that maintenance and operating activities meet production needs and safety requirements. The position works Monday through Friday, 5:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and provides ongoing operational and maintenance support across all shifts. Weekend and after-hours coverage may be needed for emergencies. The salary range is $90,000–$115,000.

Requirements

High school diploma; job-specific vocational training is desired.
At least 8 years of combined manufacturing, maintenance, and technical experience.
At least 5 years of experience with ammonia refrigeration, steam, compressed air, and water treatment operations and maintenance, including troubleshooting and emergency protocols.
Prior supervisory experience, preferably in the food and/or beverage industry.
Ability to lead technicians and multitask, with or without direct authority.
Ability to troubleshoot electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and mechanical systems.
Ability to read P&IDs, general layout drawings, equipment parts diagrams, and other technical documentation.
Working knowledge of CMMS and BMS systems and familiarity with Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
Ability to operate a forklift, scissor lift, and boom lift.
Ability to walk, climb equipment, work in confined spaces, and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
Ability to meet respirator-wearing requirements, including shaving facial hair, during training and emergency situations.
Must be willing to work weekends and after hours for emergency repair supervision and provide off-shift and weekend coverage as required.
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States; Freshpet is unable to sponsor visas.

Nice To Haves

Job-specific vocational training.
Certifications in areas of responsibility.
Prior supervisory experience in the food and/or beverage industry.

Responsibilities

Oversee the day-to-day activities of facility mechanics, utility technicians, wastewater operators, and outside contractors to ensure timely, high-quality work.
Oversee operations, maintenance, and scheduling for refrigeration (NH3 and HVAC), compressed air, steam, water, and wastewater treatment systems.
Supervise urgent and breakdown work to keep equipment running and minimize downtime.
Schedule and supervise work arranged through the Maintenance Planner to support Freshpet and Chicken Processing utilities and wastewater operational requirements.
Coordinate with the Planner about anticipated jobs and provide input on stock levels needed to maintain maintenance schedules.
Develop and motivate direct reports, provide technical assistance, and support prompt problem resolution.
Determine employee training needs by evaluating skills, abilities, safety practices, and behavior.
Plan staff schedules, including work assignments, training, vacation, and overtime as required.
Ensure plant rules, policies, and health and safety protocols are followed during operations and maintenance.
Seek continuous improvements in departmental processes and maintenance, including through 5S projects.
Participate in the Process Safety Management (PSM) team and safety committee.
Provide operational and maintenance support for facilities, utilities, and wastewater across all shifts.
Provide supervision for emergency repairs during weekends and after hours as needed, and cover off-shift hours and weekends as required.
Ensure department tools and equipment are in good working condition and maintain adequate consumable stocks.