Tactical Innovation Jobs in Springfield, MA (NOW HIRING)

We're Hiring: Manager, Plant Maintenance

Location: South Deerfield, MA
Company: Pelican 

Who We Are:

At Pelican, we engineer products that stand up to the world’s toughest conditions—because the people who rely on us do too. For nearly 50 years, we’ve been a trusted partner for military personnel, first responders, outdoor adventurers, and innovators who push the limits. 

With a global presence that includes 11 offices, 4 manufacturing facilities, and 4 custom case centers, we create high-performance protective solutions that ensure our customers can focus on what matters most. Whether it’s transporting critical medical supplies, securing mission-essential equipment, or keeping expedition gear safe, Pelican products are Built to Protect to Equip for the Mission. 

At Pelican, your work has a real-world impact. You’ll be part of a team driven by innovation, craftsmanship, and the shared belief that when the mission is critical, failure isn’t an option. If you’re ready to build something that makes a difference, be part of a team that protects what matters most. 

What You'll Do: 

Keep operations running. Lead reliability. Drive continuous improvement.

Pelican is seeking a hands-on Plant Maintenance Manager to lead maintenance operations across a fast-paced, multi-shift manufacturing environment. In this role, you’ll drive equipment reliability, maximize uptime, and lead preventive maintenance initiatives that keep operations running safely and efficiently. This is a high-impact leadership opportunity for someone who combines strong technical expertise with a passion for team development, problem-solving, and continuous improvement.

• Lead and develop the maintenance team across a multi-shift manufacturing operation
• Drive equipment uptime, reliability, and plant performance through effective preventive maintenance programs
• Take a hands-on leadership role in troubleshooting complex equipment and facility issues
• Oversee repair and maintenance of molding machines, auxiliary equipment, utility systems, and facility infrastructure
• Lead TPM, reliability, and continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, efficiency, and cost reduction
• Manage maintenance schedules, work orders, spare parts inventory, and vendor relationships
• Partner with Operations to prioritize maintenance activities and minimize downtime
• Develop and manage maintenance budgets, metrics, and energy-saving initiatives
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, environmental, fire, and safety regulations, including lockout/tagout and machine guarding requirements
• Promote a strong safety-first culture and ensure maintenance activities are performed safely and efficiently
• Utilize Lean Manufacturing principles to improve workflows, reduce waste, and optimize performance
• Coach, mentor, and develop maintenance employees through performance management and ongoing training
• Perform additional duties as assigned

What We’re Looking For:

• Minimum of 7-10 years’ experience; facility and maintenance leadership.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a leadership role.
• Must be flexible regarding working hours. Must be able to work on evenings and weekends, with or without advanced notice.
• Proficient with robots and automation.
• Experience working in a LEAN manufacturing environment.
• Good knowledge of hydraulics, pneumatics, mechanical and electrical systems.
• Tactical and facilitative experience in Lean Manufacturing and Total Preventive/Productive Maintenance concepts.
• General knowledge of auxiliary equipment, including material blender machines, granulators, shredder, fixtures, conveyors, vacuum pumps/loaders, chillers, cooling towers and air compressors.
• General knowledge of plumbing, carpentry, painting, plastering, HVAC, machine servicing and electrical servicing to effectively troubleshoot and make necessary repairs.
• Expansive knowledge of plant and machine safety regulations and systems.
• Must have excellent analytical and organizational skills, be detail-oriented, able to read and interpret schematics, blueprints and specifications.
• Must be proficient with Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, SAP and/or other productivity/ project management software.

What’s In It For You: 

Join a company that truly values its employees! We offer a relaxed and casual work environment, a strong commitment to giving back to communities, and a focus on employee satisfaction. With regular opportunities to share feedback with leadership and structured performance evaluations, we ensure that your voice is heard and your growth is supported.

• Competitive paid time off plans / Holiday pay /extra vacation purchase opportunities

• 401k plan – with immediate match  

• Great Benefits – several options including Pet insurance for our animal lovers. 
• Health Savings Account Contribution

• Wellness Discount Program 

• Global Mental Wellness Program 
• Quarterly Employee Celebration Days
• Peer to Peer Recognition Program
• Service Recognition Program

• Amazing employee discount program on Pelican Products, Pelican branded apparel and gear 

• Employee referral program – get paid to work with your trusted network.  
• Beautiful New England location 

• Onsite Gym

• Established reputable brand offering premium products – you’ll be proud to represent Pelican! 

• And more…  

What You May Be Doing:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be frequently required to execute standard physical activities within the facility areas (i.e. stand, walk, sit, use hands/fingers).
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be frequently required to execute non-standard physical activities within the facility areas (i.e. climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch).
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.