About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is one of the world's leading food and beverage companies, with a global portfolio that includes iconic brands like Pepsi, Gatorade, Lay's, and Quaker. Operating in over 200 countries, PepsiCo employs more than 300,000 people dedicated to delivering high-quality products while advancing sustainability goals. In Ireland, PepsiCo's Carrigaline plant is a flagship facility within the PepsiCo Global Concentrate Solutions (PGCS) network, renowned for its high levels of automation and strict regulatory compliance. As a leader in innovation, PepsiCo invests heavily in advanced manufacturing technologies, reliability engineering, and resource conservation, making it an ideal place for engineering professionals to thrive.

Role Overview

The Plant Maintenance Manager position at PepsiCo's Carrigaline plant in Cork, Ireland, is a pivotal leadership role on the Site Leadership Team (SLT). This full-time position oversees all Maintenance and Automation engineering activities at one of the most advanced and regulated sites in the PGCS network. You will drive improvement, corrective, preventive, and predictive maintenance for production equipment, utilities, and facilities. Your mission is to implement world-class strategies that achieve PGCS targets for quality, service, cost, and inventory, while maintaining full compliance with Irish and European regulations. This role also encompasses budgetary oversight, team development, and fostering a high-performance culture within the Maintenance and Automation Engineering function.

Key Responsibilities

Maintenance & Reliability

Develop and execute maintenance strategies tailored to a highly automated environment. Lead preventive and predictive programs to maximize equipment uptime and product quality. Spearhead reliability initiatives for electrical and instrumentation systems, including shutdown management, asset replacements, and continuous improvement projects. Oversee utilities and facilities maintenance, conduct root cause analyses (RCAs) for recurring issues, and engineer sustainable solutions. Manage budgets, contractors, utilities, and critical spares, while defining SLAs and leading QBRs. Provide technical expertise on site utilities like treated water, steam, compressed air, and chilled water. Own energy metrics and drive ReCon initiatives for resource conservation. Ensure calibration compliance and productivity gains.

Automation Leadership

Direct automation efforts, process optimizations, RCAs, and team management, including contractor oversight. Optimize PLC systems, SCADA, InBatch, and recipe management. Proactively scout and integrate cutting-edge technologies into PepsiCo operations.

Compliance, Audits & Sustainability

Support key audits (FDA, COMAH, AIBI, HSA, GEHSMS, FM Global) and uphold PGCS standards for technical, EHS, and quality. Promote responsible resource use and lead sustainability projects. Serve as Cybersecurity Champion, Reliability Lead, Energy Lead, and Change Champion.

People & Leadership

Build bench strength, coach and mentor teams, conduct performance reviews, and drive career development to ensure business continuity and organizational health.

Qualifications & Requirements

Candidates must hold a Degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, or equivalent) with 10+ years of hands-on experience in maintenance and reliability within regulated, automated settings. Proven people management experience is essential, alongside strong knowledge of HV/LV electrical systems. Project management expertise, advanced proficiency in PLC, SCADA, and automation technologies, excellent communication skills, strategic mindset, and the ability to thrive under pressure with multiple priorities are required. Experience in food & beverage manufacturing, especially in highly regulated environments, is highly desirable.

Benefits & Perks

PepsiCo offers a competitive salary estimated at €65,000 - €95,000 annually, reflecting Food & Beverage sector rates in Ireland with a buffer for top talent. Enjoy comprehensive health insurance, pension contributions, and wellness programs. Benefit from generous paid time off, flexible working arrangements, and family-friendly policies. Access world-class training, leadership development, and tuition reimbursement. Participate in sustainability initiatives and employee resource groups. Additional perks include on-site facilities, employee discounts on PepsiCo products, and performance bonuses tied to site success.

Career Growth

At PepsiCo, career advancement is a reality. As Plant Maintenance Manager, you'll gain exposure to global projects, cross-functional leadership, and executive visibility. Develop bench strength in your team while building your own through tailored development plans, mentorship, and rotational opportunities across PGCS and PepsiCo Europe. High performers advance to senior roles like Site Operations Director or regional reliability leads, with pathways to international assignments.

Why Join Us

Join PepsiCo in Cork to lead at the forefront of automated manufacturing in a stable, innovative company committed to sustainability and excellence. Impact global supply chains, drive technological advancements, and grow with a supportive team in Ireland's vibrant tech hub. PepsiCo values diversity, inclusion, and employee well-being, offering stability and excitement in the dynamic food & beverage industry.

Role FAQs

Q: What experience is required? A: 10+ years in maintenance/reliability in regulated environments, engineering degree, and people management.
Q: Is relocation support available? A: Yes, for qualifying candidates.
Q: What automation systems are used? A: PLC, SCADA, InBatch, and recipe management.
Q: How does PepsiCo support professional development? A: Through training, coaching, performance reviews, and global opportunities.
Q: What are the site's key focuses? A: Uptime, compliance, energy efficiency, and innovation.