Maintenance Manager, Lawton-OK

Maintenance Manager

IPEX is one of the North American leading providers of advanced plastic piping systems. Our mission is to shape a better tomorrow by connecting people with water and energy.

We currently have an exciting opportunity as a Maintenance Manager. This role is based in our Lawton Plant and reports to the Plant Manager.

Do not miss the opportunity to join a broad family of people-centric professionals, thought leaders, and rapid thinkers, entrepreneurs in spirit, and status quo-fighters!

Job Purpose : Are you a strategic leader with a passion for operational excellence and team development? Join our dynamic manufacturing team as a Maintenance Manager, where your expertise will directly impact plant performance, safety, and sustainability.

In this pivotal role, you will lead the planning, coordination, and execution of maintenance, repair, and installation activities across all plant systemsfrom rail-side unloading and raw material blending to final processing. Your leadership will ensure optimal equipment performance, cost efficiency, and compliance with all Health, Safety, and Environmental (H.S.E.) regulations, including OHSA, CSA, BSI, ANSI, MOE, MOL, and more.

You'll be at the forefront of technical innovation and continuous improvement, overseeing equipment installation, cost estimation, and facility maintenance to meet project timelines and budget targets. As a key contributor to our Manufacturing Operating System (M.O.S.), you'll champion safety, environmental stewardship, and resource efficiency to help us achieve our plant goals.

But this role is more than just technical leadershipit's about building a high-performing, inclusive team culture. You'll play a vital role in shaping the people strategy within the Maintenance Department, driving talent development, mentoring future leaders, and fostering a collaborative environment where every team member can thrive.

Make a meaningful impact in a leadership role that blends technical expertise, strategic thinking, and people development. We're seeking a collaborative and forward-thinking Maintenance Manager to lead our maintenance operations and drive continuous improvement across our facility.

About the Role

As Maintenance Manager, you will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing all maintenance, repair, and installation activities for plant equipment and operating systems. This includes everything from rail-side unloading systems and raw material blending to final processing. Your leadership will ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operations that align with organizational goals and regulatory standards.

You'll also play a key role in developing talent, fostering a supportive and inclusive team culture, and ensuring all engineering activities comply with applicable Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) regulations.

What You'll Do

Operations & Technical Leadership

Lead and manage maintenance activities including repairs, equipment installation, preventive maintenance, and facility upkeep.

Prioritize tasks based on safety, operational impact, and business needs.

Oversee budgets and ensure expenditures align with forecasts, providing clear updates to stakeholders.

Collaborate cross-functionally with Plant, Production, and Engineering teams to ensure equipment upgrades are compatible and future-ready.

Research and evaluate new technologies and materials to support innovation and evolving operational needs.

Maintain accurate documentation for all equipment and machinery (ISMS), supporting informed decision-making.

Implement and monitor a preventive maintenance program to maximize uptime and ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards.

Project & Vendor Management

Coordinate and manage project execution, including contractor communication, schedule tracking, and cost control.

Support procurement by providing subject matter expertise during quotations and negotiations.

Track deliveries and maintain communication with suppliers and contractors to ensure timely execution.

Team Development & Leadership

Support recruitment, onboarding, and performance development of maintenance team members.

Provide coaching and mentorship, contributing to training programs and succession planning.

Foster a culture of respect, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Health, Safety & Environmental Stewardship

Champion a safety-first culture, ensuring timely reporting and proactive hazard mitigation.

Ensure compliance with all HSE policies and integrate standards into training and operations.

Collaborate with HSE teams to manage contractor safety and compliance programs.

Continuous Improvement

Lead the 5S program to maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

Participate in audits and change management reviews to drive operational excellence.

Promote cross-shift cooperation and shared accountability for housekeeping and safety standards.

Education & Certifications

Post-secondary education in Mechanical or Industrial Engineering is preferred.

Additional certifications in maintenance, safety, or technical systems are considered assets.

Skills & Experience

5+ years of leadership experience in manufacturing or industrial maintenance.

Advanced technical knowledge in electrical systems, PLCs, instrumentation, motors, and drives.

Specialized expertise in hydraulic, pneumatic, and mechanical systems.

Experience with Central Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS).

Strong background in strategic planning, resource allocation, and team coordination.

Familiarity with ISO 9001 standards and quality systems is an asset.

Proven ability to drive performance improvements and lead change.

Solid understanding of HSE practices in a manufacturing environment.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and general computer literacy.

IPEX is committed to providing accommodations for people with disabilities throughout the recruitment process and, upon request, will work with qualified job applicants to provide suitable accommodation in a manner that takes into account the applicant's accessibility needs due to disability. Accommodation requests are available to candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process for IPEX jobs. To request an accommodation, please contact HR at HR@ipexna.com.