Direct message the job poster from Phytech - Plant-Based Farming
Becky Noble, MBA
Human Resources Director, PHR
California Automation Manager
Location: Central Valley, CA
Reports to: VP Operations
About Phytech:
Phytech is helping the world’s leading growers optimize production by connecting them to their plants. Phytech’s IoT platform offers direct sensing, data analytics, and machine learning recommendations to improve irrigation efficiency as well as crop health, yield, and quality. Our global team of passionate industry professionals is dedicated to one goal: making our farmers successful. Agriculture is facing a significant opportunity as technology quickly penetrates the market, making this a unique moment to accelerate your career with a fast-growing AgTech firm leading the way in innovation.
Role Summary:
The Automation Manager will supervise and lead a team of Automation Technicians to accomplish installation projects. The Manager will be required to do systems reviews & surveys, planning HW required to automate these systems, facilitating the installations, operations, monitoring, and maintenance of cloud-controlled irrigation and hydraulic systems. They will work regularly with low voltage electrical components, hydraulic controls, and other electro-mechanical devices (valves, pumps, filters, chemical injectors, etc).
Responsibilities:
Install irrigation and other hydraulic controllers, including radios, solar panels, antennas, antenna masts, valve solenoids, pump relays, and critter guards.
Install conduit (trenching when necessary) and run wire to interconnect devices.
Troubleshoot components and processes, replace defective hardware, and test functionality before leaving a site.
Calibrate sensors and ensure water meters, switches, and other devices report accurate values.
Test valves, pumps, and other outputs for proper functionality.
Provide remote and on-site support, and in rare cases, respond to emergency support calls on weekends.
Train customers on the system once it is automated.
Supervisor Responsibilities:
Train customers on the use of automation software and systems, including manual overrides and simple troubleshooting.
Collaborate closely with the VP Operations and Operations Manager on equipment needs, priorities, ongoing projects, and real-time issues.
Consult with the VP Operations and other regional counterparts to resolve complex issues.
Oversee automation projects and report daily status to the Operations Team.
Conduct training sessions for Automation Technicians on product knowledge, procedures, safety, and tools.
Implement operational policies and procedures to enhance efficiency and safety standards.
Foster a culture within operations that values treating vehicles, inventory, tools, time, and trust with care and respect.
Measure and manage the quality, speed, and cost KPIs across the operations team, and report them to the rest of the leadership team.
Support HR in staff management, fleet vehicles, and recruitment processes.
Manage large installation projects, including organizing and planning the work.
Maintain a clean driving record and pass a background check.
Be available for off-hours communication with the global team.
Commit to customer satisfaction and product reliability.
Qualifications and Skills:
Management and Leadership:
Demonstrated management capabilities with a proven ability to lead a team for high performance.
Natural leadership qualities with humility and a focus on empowering others.
Proven ability to work collaboratively in a team setting and foster a positive team environment.
Capacity to handle increased responsibilities and pressure.
Experience managing projects from inception to completion.
Technical Skills:
Proficiency in MS Office and Google Workspace; experience with NetSuite and FSL preferred (training provided).
Strong technical and problem-solving skills.
Knowledge and experience in irrigation infrastructure, design, and automation.
Familiarity with automation software and control systems.
Basic data analysis skills to interpret system performance data and make recommendations.
Experience with WiseConn technology is a plus, but not required.
Communication and Customer Relations:
Strong written and oral communication skills.
A passion for customer satisfaction.
Experience in maintaining and enhancing customer relationships.
Adaptability to changing priorities and work environments.
Work Environment and Physical Requirements:
A willingness to work outdoors year-round and travel frequently.
Ability to complete assigned tasks within time constraints and manage seasonal workload peaks.
Ability to lift/move items in excess of 75 lbs.
Professional Development:
Relevant industry certifications related to irrigation and hydraulic systems, a plus.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in automation or related fields.
Commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
Alignment with Phytech’s values and mission, showing commitment to innovation and sustainability in agriculture.
Benefits:
Career advancement opportunities with a leading Ag Tech company.
Competitive salary.
Company offered medical, dental, and vision insurance.