Senior Greenhouse Facilities & Systems Engineer

Watsonville, CA

Location:

Watsonville, CA

Type:
Full-time

The Senior Greenhouse Facilities & Systems Engineer is responsible for the technical design, maximum uptime, and continuous maintenance of Ohalo’s Watsonville / Aptos Greenhouse and Lab infrastructure. This role sits at the intersection of hands‑on maintenance and high‑level systems engineering.

We are looking for a "builder‑operator"—someone who can diagnose a chiller failure, optimize automated HVAC logic, model a custom component in CAD, and 3D‑print a prototype replacement part. While the primary focus of this role is engineering and facility operational excellence, experience with or a willingness to support site Environment, Health & Safety (EHS) compliance is a highly valued plus.

• Oversee the day‑to‑day operation and preventive/corrective maintenance of all site infrastructure: greenhouse structures, HVAC, irrigation and fertigation systems, electrical, plumbing, lighting, controls, and utilities.
• Develop and manage a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) or equivalent tracking process for work orders, asset history, and planned maintenance schedules.
• Partner with greenhouse operations and research teams to plan and execute facility modifications that support evolving science programs.
• Maintain all facility systems in compliance with applicable building codes, agricultural regulations, and Ohalo’s operational standards.
• 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 (access control, surveillance, perimeter security) appropriate for an agricultural R&D environment.
• 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.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a small in‑house facilities and maintenance technician team; define roles, set performance goals, and manage staffing needs.
• Assist with site safety inspections, coordinate facilities‑related emergency planning (fire suppression, backup power), and ensure proper chemical storage containment.

• 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., Solid Works, AutoCAD, Fusion
  360) 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.

• 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).

Below is the pay range for this position that we reasonably expect…