Greenhouse Technician

BrightFarms Inc•Yorkville, IL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Cox Farms is hiring a Greenhouse Technician to assist with hydroponic greens production at its 8-acre greenhouse in Yorkville, Illinois. The Yorkville farm is approximately 480,000 square feet and produces around 6 million pounds of leafy greens annually. The role reports to the Head Grower and supports greenhouse production, environmental controls, crop health, research and development, and facility upkeep. The employer for this role is BrightFarms Inc., and the position supports all Cox Farms businesses. The technician manages climate alarms, lighting, and environmental controls according to settings established by the agricultural team, troubleshooting issues with guidance from the Head Grower and Grower. The role maintains hydroponic gutter system set points and productivity, including nutrient balance, pH, temperature, aeration, sanitation, and irrigation mechanicals. It also includes crop scouting, data collection, preventive and corrective maintenance, pest and disease management under BrightFarms’ IDPM protocols, and collaboration on projects to optimize yields and quality and develop products. Working conditions include possible travel to other greenhouses, chemical handling, and regular exposure to hot and humid environments. PPE will be provided. The role requires regular use of hands and fingers, reaching, walking, standing, sitting, and lifting up to 50 pounds. Applicants for U.S.-based roles must be authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.

Requirements

Two years of experience in greenhouse production or similar.

Nice To Haves

A minimum two-year degree in horticulture and/or related sciences.
Experience with good manufacturing practices (GMPs), food safety, and knowledge of IPM.
Hoogendoorn or PRIVA experience.
Experience in controlled environment agriculture and hydroponic production of food crops is preferred.

Responsibilities

Assist in managing hydroponic greens production at the Yorkville greenhouse.
Manage climate alarms, lighting, and environmental controls according to settings established by the agricultural team; troubleshoot and resolve issues with guidance from the Head Grower and Grower.
Maintain set points, health, and productivity of hydroponic gutter systems, including nutrient balance, pH management, temperature, aeration, sanitation, and irrigation mechanicals.
Assist with crop scouting for disease, nutrient issues, pests, yield impacts, and general data collection.
Complete daily checklists and regular preventive and corrective maintenance; report findings to the Head Grower and Grower and collaborate on corrective strategies.
Ensure the greenhouse is free of insect pests and disease using BrightFarms’ IDPM protocols.
Collaborate with the Head Grower, Grower, and Apprentice Grower to track R&D projects to optimize yields and quality of existing products and develop new products.
Support the Head Grower and General Manager and maintain a neat and orderly greenhouse facility.