Machinery Manager

Location: Sommerville, VIC, 3912
Full-Time: Immediate start
Job Title: Machinery Manager
Salary range: $90,000 - $120,000
Job Closure date: 30 days

About our client
Our client is a prominent leader in the FMCG and fresh produce sector, operating advanced packing and processing facilities on the Mornington Peninsula. Their sophisticated operations encompass state-of-the-art packing lines, automated sorting systems, and precision packaging machinery that handle high-value fresh produce for both domestic and export markets. With a commitment to innovation and quality excellence, they maintain cutting-edge facilities that integrate advanced machinery with rigorous quality control systems. Their focus on technological advancement and operational efficiency drives their need for expert machinery management across their integrated packing and processing operations.

About the Role
On behalf of our client, we are seeking an experienced and technically proficient Machinery Manager to lead their packing line operations and equipment management. This senior role requires a professional with comprehensive knowledge of automated packing systems, quality control protocols, and team leadership. The ideal candidate will demonstrate expertise in packing line optimization, machinery performance management, and export compliance, ensuring maximum efficiency and quality standards across our client's sophisticated fresh produce packing operations.

Key Duties & Responsibilities
Packing Line Operations & Efficiency Management
• Direct and optimize daily packing line operations under the guidance of shed management, implementing proactive strategies to achieve maximum throughput and efficiency
• Set, calibrate, and control sophisticated MAF operating systems and automated sorting equipment to ensure precise performance meeting exact product specifications and packing requirements
• Monitor and adjust fruit input flows in coordination with forklift operations, maintaining optimal line speeds while minimizing bottlenecks and equipment stress
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives for packing line performance, analysing efficiency data and implementing corrective actions to enhance productivity

Quality Assurance & Compliance Management
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of all protocols for domestic and export markets, ensuring packing instructions, labelling systems, and traceability requirements are strictly adhered to
• Liaise continuously with quality control officers to validate that all packed products meet stringent quality standards and customer specifications
• Oversee and validate accurate implementation of traceability systems, ensuring complete product tracking from receiving through to final dispatch
• Conduct regular audits of packing line outputs, verifying that carton labelling, pallet configuration, and documentation meet market-specific requirements

Equipment Maintenance & Technical Oversight
• Ensure optimal performance of fruit label applicators and automated packing equipment, performing routine maintenance and coordinating specialized repairs with maintenance teams
• Monitor equipment performance and identify maintenance requirements, promptly reporting issues to maintenance supervisors and tracking resolution timelines
• Implement preventive maintenance schedules for packing line machinery, minimizing unplanned downtime and maintaining consistent operation quality
• Maintain detailed equipment performance records and maintenance logs to support equipment lifecycle management and replacement planning

Team Leadership & Operational Coordination
• Provide hands-on supervision and training for pack house staff, developing team capabilities and ensuring consistent adherence to operating procedures
• Coordinate effectively with chemical supervisors to ensure timely monitoring and management of line sanitation and food safety protocols
• Develop and implement staff training programs for packing line operations, quality standards, and safety procedures as directed by management
• Manage cross-training initiatives to ensure flexible staffing across multiple packing lines, maintaining operational resilience during peak periods

Safety & Process Compliance
• Enforce strict adherence to Occupational Health & Safety policies and procedures across all packing shed operations, conducting regular safety briefings and inspections
• Ensure full compliance with quality assurance requirements, documenting processes and maintaining audit-ready conditions throughout packing operations
• Implement and monitor safety protocols for machinery operation, ensuring all staff are trained in safe equipment handling and emergency procedures
• Conduct regular risk assessments of packing line operations, implementing corrective measures to enhance workplace safety and equipment security

Essential Qualifications & Experience
• AQF Diploma in Engineering, Operations Management, or equivalent qualification
• Proven post-qualification experience in packing line management or machinery supervision within FMCG, fresh produce, or food processing environments
• Demonstrated experience with automated packing systems, quality control protocols, and export compliance requirements

Essential Skills & Attributes
• Comprehensive technical knowledge of packing line machinery, automated sorting systems, and equipment maintenance protocols
• Strong leadership capabilities with proven ability to supervise teams and drive operational excellence in fast-paced environments
• Excellent understanding of quality assurance systems, traceability requirements, and export market compliance standards
• Proven ability to work effectively within management structures while demonstrating strong autonomous decision-making capabilities
• Practical, hands-on approach with commitment to maintaining high equipment performance and product quality standards
• Strong analytical skills with ability to interpret production data and implement efficiency improvements
• Excellent communication and coordination skills with ability to liaise effectively across multiple departments and management levels
• Commitment to workplace safety with thorough understanding of OH&S requirements in machinery-intensive environments

To Apply
If you are an experienced machinery or packing line professional with strong leadership skills seeking a management role within a leading FMCG business, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience through the application portal.
Please note: We are managing this recruitment process on behalf of our client. All applications will be reviewed by our team before being presented to the client.