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Base Engine Manager Jobs in Meridian, MS (NOW HIRING)

Base Engine Manager information

See Meridian, MS salary details

$10

$21

$32

How much do base engine manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for base engine manager in Meridian, MS is $21.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a base engine manager?

A Base Engine Manager is a professional responsible for overseeing the design, development, and performance optimization of the core aspects of an engine, typically in the automotive or aerospace industry. Their role involves managing engineering teams, coordinating with other departments, and ensuring that the base engine meets performance, efficiency, and emissions standards. They also play a key part in troubleshooting technical issues and implementing improvements to the engine platform. The position requires strong technical knowledge, leadership skills, and experience in engine development projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a base engine manager, and why are they important?

A Base Engine Manager must possess a solid background in mechanical engineering, internal combustion engine design, and project management, often supported by an engineering degree and relevant industry experience. Familiarity with CAD software, engine simulation tools, and quality management systems is typically essential, along with certifications such as Six Sigma or PMP being advantageous. Strong leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help coordinate cross-functional teams and drive project success. These abilities are crucial for delivering high-performance, compliant engine platforms that meet cost, reliability, and efficiency targets.

What are some typical challenges faced by a base engine manager, and how can they be addressed?

Base Engine Managers often encounter challenges such as balancing project deadlines with the need for technical innovation, managing cross-functional teams, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Addressing these issues requires strong project management skills, effective communication with both engineering and non-engineering teams, and staying current with industry trends and regulations. Building a collaborative team environment and fostering open communication can help anticipate and mitigate potential roadblocks, ensuring project goals are met efficiently.

What is the difference between Base Engine Manager vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectBase Engine ManagerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering, relevant certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, professional licensure often preferred
Work EnvironmentAutomotive or aerospace manufacturing, R&D labs, production facilitiesDesign offices, manufacturing plants, research labs
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, heavy machineryVarious industries including automotive, aerospace, manufacturing
Common Search/ComparisonBase Engine Manager vs Mechanical Engineer

The Base Engine Manager focuses on overseeing engine development, testing, and production processes, often requiring specialized knowledge of engine systems. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on various mechanical systems, including engines, but with less managerial responsibility. While both roles require engineering degrees and similar certifications, the Base Engine Manager typically holds a more specialized and leadership-oriented position within engine development teams.

Infographic showing various Base Engine Manager job openings in Meridian, MS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,161 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Director of Maintenance

Meridian, MS • On-site

High Road Partners Inc.
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 1 - 10 employees

$100K - $130K/yr

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Our client is a rapidly growing, premier regional transportation provider is seeking an experienced maintenance executive to professionalize their shop operations, optimize processes, and lead their technical teams into the next phase of growth.


The Maintenance Director will oversee all maintenance programs, processes, and procedures across their 4 terminal shops, managing a total team of 20+ technicians. This role requires a strategic leader who can balance the demands of a high-volume corporate hub with regional preventative maintenance facilities. Their main corporate shop handles comprehensive “A to Z” repairs, including complete engine overhauls and teardowns—while the remaining three satellite shops focus primarily on high-efficiency preventative maintenance (PM).


The ideal candidate is a process-driven leader capable of auditing current workflows, implementing standard operating procedures, and scaling shop capabilities to match rapid fleet expansion.


Key responsibilities:

  • Multi-shop leadership: Provide strategic direction and daily oversight to 4 distinct maintenance facilities, ensuring high asset availability and minimal downtime.
  • Process optimization: Design, implement, and enforce standardized maintenance processes, safety protocols, and shop procedures across the network.
  • Team management: Lead, mentor, and develop a team of 20+ heavy-duty technicians, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous training.
  • CapEx and overhaul oversight: Supervise the corporate shop’s complex repair operations, ensuring engine teardowns and major rebuilds meet quality and safety benchmarks.
  • Fleet health management: Maximize the performance and lifecycle of a modern fleet (3–4-year average age) through rigorous preventative maintenance programs.
  • Vendor and inventory control: Manage parts inventory, vendor relationships, and maintenance budgets to control costs without sacrificing fleet reliability.


Qualifications and requirements:

  • Proven leadership experience: Minimum of 5+ years managing multi-site shop environments, commercial fleets, or large-scale diesel maintenance operations.
  • Technical expertise: Deep understanding of heavy-duty truck maintenance (Class 8 preferred), including advanced diagnostics, preventative maintenance, and major component rebuilds.
  • Change management skills: Demonstrated success in optimizing shop workflows, reducing standard repair times (SRTs), and professionalizing legacy processes.
  • Financial acumen: Experience managing maintenance budgets, parts inventory metrics, and labor efficiency allocations.
  • Communication skills: Ability to effectively collaborate with executive leadership (VP level) and clearly communicate expectations to shop floor technicians.


Compensation:

  • Base salary of $100,000–$130,000, depending on experience.
  • Performance bonus opportunity.


Relocation assistance: Yes, negotiated lump-sum assistance is available.


If this sounds like the next step in your career, we’d love to hear from you. Please send your resume to Jon Fricke at jfricke@highroadpartnersinc.com, please include Position ID # 26170 in subject line.