Senior Greenhouse Facilities & Systems Engineer
$90,000–$115,000 year
On-siteWatsonville, California, United States
Job Summary
Oversee day-to-day operation and preventive/corrective maintenance of greenhouse structures, HVAC, irrigation, electrical, plumbing, lighting, controls, and utilities. Develop and manage a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) for work orders, asset history, and planned maintenance schedules. Partner with operations and research teams to plan facility modifications supporting evolving science programs. Lead, mentor, and develop a small in-house facilities and maintenance technician team. Manage relationships with third-party service providers, equipment vendors, and construction contractors; negotiate contracts and ensure quality of work. Collaborate with greenhouse operations, plant science, and supply chain teams to ensure facilities support research timelines and production schedules. Develop and manage site security systems including access control, surveillance, and perimeter security. Oversee facilities-related aspects of hygiene, pest and disease prevention, including structural exclusion measures and environmental monitoring systems. Support sustainability initiatives including water recapture, energy efficiency, and waste reduction programs. Assist with site safety inspections, coordinate facilities-related emergency planning, and ensure proper chemical storage containment. Maintain all facility systems in compliance with applicable building codes, agricultural regulations, and Ohalo's operational standards.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Facilities Management, Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, or related), Environmental Health & Safety, or equivalent combination of education and experience
- 5+ years of experience managing complex facility infrastructure, with a proven track record in heavy mechanical/electrical systems (HVAC, chillers, commercial electrical distribution, environmental control systems, automation)
- Proficient in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Fusion360) and hands-on experience with 3D printing/rapid prototyping techniques
- Experience overseeing third-party specialized technicians, mechanical contractors, and service vendors
- Proficiency with maintenance management systems and standard business software (MS Office / Google Workspace)
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to present technical and safety information clearly to diverse audiences
- Valid California driver's license and reliable transportation
Desired Qualifications
- EHS & Cal/OSHA Knowledge: Direct experience owning or heavily supporting EHS programs in a California-based agricultural, biotech, or manufacturing setting. Working knowledge of Cal/OSHA Title 8 standards
- Demonstrated experience managing contractors, reviewing construction scopes, and controlling project budgets
- Familiarity with California agricultural pesticide use reporting, Pesticide Use Permits (PUP), and Worker Protection Standard (WPS)
- Experience in a startup or fast-scaling environment where processes are built from the ground up
- Bilingual in English and Spanish (preferred given workforce composition)
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