Chief Maintenance Officer (CMO) (f/m/d)

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Montevideo, Uruguay
Entry date: April 9, 2026
Still accepting applications
Full Time (Permanent)
Job-Ref.: 548985
Deutsche Bahn International Operations GmbH
Civil engineering and architecture
Academic Professionals

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DBCC is a railway operator responsible for the efficient and safe freight rail service connecting a cellulose production facility in the Uruguayan interior with the port of Montevideo. DBCC operates a fleet of diesel locomotives and freight wagons which is maintained inhouse in DBCCs workshop. As a vital logistics link, DBCC ensures the sustainable and reliable transport of pulp to international markets. DBCC operates under UIC railway standards, on a 1435mm UIC compliant infrastructure with L1 ETCS with light signals, with a strong focus on safety, asset integrity, and operational excellence.

We are seeking a visionary, hands-on, and operationally excellent Chief Maintenance Officer (CMO) to oversee and lead all key operational areas at DBCC. This includes responsibility for the following operational areas: Asset Management for own locomotives and freight wagons, Rolling Stock Maintenance and Management, Maintenance planning and Data Management for the Maintenance department. The CMO will play a key role in delivering safe, reliable, and cost-effective rail freight operations, driving maintenance performance through data-driven decision-making, lean processes, people leadership and stakeholder management.

Responsibilities:

Lead, mentor and develop department heads in Maintenance, Asset Management and Data Management while strengthening knowledge sharing and training programs.
Maximize asset availability and lifecycle through proactive, data-driven maintenance, innovative technologies and industry best practices.
Oversee budget planning and execute cost-optimization strategies to ensure financial efficiency.
Drive the strategic deployment and management of advanced IT and communication systems.
Align personnel planning and resource allocation with service requirements, business continuity and operational priorities.
Champion continuous improvement initiatives using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, including government agencies, clients, and shareholders, while promoting a culture of performance and safety.
Partner with the CEO to shape DBCC’s strategic growth as a best-practice freight operator in South America.

Qualifications:

Degree in Engineering (Bachelor’s or Master’s), complemented by over 12 years of experience in asset management and maintenance within railway, transport, and related industries.
Proven expertise in maintenance excellence, asset lifecycle optimization and operational reliability as key success drivers.
Certified in Lean and Six Sigma (ideally Black Belt), with a strong track record of process optimization, workflow efficiency and cost-saving initiatives.
Strategic and conceptual thinker, skilled at translating technical and operational complexity into actionable strategies and communicating effectively with stakeholders, partners and shareholders.
5+ years of senior leadership experience (ideally at CMO or executive level), managing operational staff, asset management functions and IT systems for performance improvement.
Demonstrated ability to balance day-to-day operational execution with strategic transformation, leading small, agile and cross-functional teams.
International project experience, including on-site assignments in developing countries, with strong adaptability in multinational and multicultural environments.
Fluency in English and Spanish is mandatory, with advanced IT literacy and deep understanding of railway maintenance software and digital tools.

Our offer

Professional onboarding and development

We invest in the development of our employees. To ensure the best start for you, we provide a global onboarding program and intercultural training and support you in preparing for the next career step.

Attractive employment conditions

We offer you attractive working conditions and a competitive compensation package based on country conditions.

Mobilization & relocation support

To ensure a smooth and successful start for your international employment, we assist you with relocation and immigration.

Work safety

Our international security support ensures safe working conditions worldwide and provides you with relevant information for a safe living around the globe.

International career opportunities

We offer attractive career opportunities - worldwide. With a work environment that encourages growth and creativity, you will work on complex and innovative projects in international teams on all continents and bring markets and people together.

Intercultural teams

With more than 5,000 employees from over 80 countries across all engineering disciplines worldwide, we are shaping railways for the world of tomorrow. A strong team spirit, intercultural mindset and engagement are essential parts of our success.