Maintenance Lead

Shah Trading Co. Ltd is a leader in the food industry with a 40 year history serving customers both in Canada and globally. With a deep understanding of food markets and food safety requirements we are committed to continued leadership, growth, and service to our customers.Job Summary

The Maintenance Lead plays a key hands-on role in ensuring that all production equipment, machinery, and facility systems operate safely, efficiently, and with maximum uptime. Working closely with the Maintenance Manager, the Maintenance Lead coordinates daily maintenance activities, troubleshoots mechanical and electrical issues, performs preventative maintenance, and guides a team of technicians to meet production and operational goals.

This role requires strong technical expertise, a valid Millwright license, and the ability to lead by example—supporting continuous improvement, equipment reliability, and safe work practices across all maintenance functions.

Key Responsibilities

Maintenance Operations

• Perform hands-on troubleshooting, repairs, and adjustments on mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems.
• Coordinate and execute preventive maintenance (PM) activities according to established schedules.
• Support the Maintenance Manager in maintaining CBM/CMMS systems, including accurate work order completion, parts usage, and equipment documentation.
• Respond to equipment breakdowns promptly and efficiently to minimize downtime.
• Assist in optimizing equipment performance, product quality, and production throughput.

Leadership & Team Support

• Lead and guide maintenance technicians during day-to-day operations.
• Assign work orders, provide technical direction, and ensure job completion meets safety and quality standards.
• Support training and onboarding of maintenance team members in areas such as Health & Safety, HACCP, GMP, and standard operating procedures.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and help identify opportunities to enhance reliability and efficiency.

Inventory, Parts & Vendor Coordination

• Support inventory management of spare parts, tools, and consumables; flag shortages and recommend reorders.
• Assist with sourcing materials and coordinating service calls with external contractors and vendors.
• Verify receipt of parts, assist in troubleshooting defective items, and support recordkeeping of maintenance documentation.

Compliance, Safety & Documentation

• Ensure all maintenance tasks comply with safety legislation (TSSA, ESA, OHSA) and internal company policies.
• Conduct routine equipment and facility inspections and report issues proactively.
• Assist with HACCP-related maintenance responsibilities and ensure documentation is kept up to date.
• Maintain accurate maintenance logs, work orders, and equipment history files.

Qualifications & Requirements

Technical Requirements

• Valid Millwright License (433A or provincial equivalent) — mandatory.
• Completion of a mechanical or electrical apprenticeship program.
• Strong mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic troubleshooting capabilities.
• Experience with computerized maintenance systems (CMMS).

Experience

• Minimum 3+ years of hands-on industrial or manufacturing maintenance experience.
• Experience in food manufacturing or a regulated environment is an asset.
• Previous experience providing guidance or leadership to a maintenance team is preferred.

Skills & Attributes

• Strong organizational skills with high attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced production environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Word).
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to work flexible hours as needed to support production demands.
• Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and commitment to safety.