Process Engineer

BrightFarms; Bridgeport (CT); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

BrightFarms is seeking a Process Engineer to optimize greenhouse workflows, reduce waste, and improve yields across its growing network. You will partner with operators and engineers to implement lean solutions and SOPs for packaging, planting, harvesting, and climate control.

The role emphasizes data analytics, cross-functional teamwork, and hands-on coaching to elevate performance while maintaining safety and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Process, Production, Mechanical, Industrial, or related).
• 3–5 years in process engineering, preferably in agriculture or manufacturing.
• Experience with data analytics tools and ERP/MES systems.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and improve greenhouse workflows including packaging, planting, harvesting, irrigation and climate control.
• Collaborate with operators to develop SOPs and train teams on lean principles.
• Work with engineers and vendors to design and implement process improvements.
• Collect and interpret data to identify trends and opportunities for efficiency.
• Lead process improvement and capital projects from concept to implementation.
• Ensure safety, environmental, and policy compliance in all changes.

Skills

Process engineering

Data analytics

Kaizen

Project management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

Excel

Minitab

Tableau

ERP/MES

Job description

At BrightFarms, we’re on a mission to revolutionize the way leafy greens are grown. But we don’t just want to grow great tasting greens, we want them to do good as well: for the planet, for the health of people, and for the well-being of our employees. We give BrightFarmers the tools, training, support, and opportunities they need to do better for themselves and the world every day. Because when you do good for your people, they do good for the world.

BrightFarms is a national leader in the booming indoor farming industry, transforming how produce is grown and delivered with its expanding network of eight high-tech, sustainable hydroponic farms. From seed to leaf we grow lettuce smarter, with less space, no pesticides and protected inside, so it’s better for the planet and way better for humans. BrightFarms' fresh lettuce options, from classic greens to crunchy mixes and salad kits, are available in more than 4,500 retail stores across the East Coast, Midwest, and South.

Our Macon, Georgia farm is the most advanced greenhouse in the state, delivering fresh, locally grown leafy greens to Georgians. Spanning nearly 480,000 square feet, this facility will produce approximately 6 million pounds of leafy greens annually.

Specifically, you will:

• Analyze and improve greenhouse workflows, including packaging, planting, harvesting, irrigation and climate control through leading cross‑functional Kaizen events and Root Cause Analysis sessions to identify and mitigate operational risks
• Work side by side with operators daily and quickly learning facility specific equipment to become an expert ready to develop SOPs, mentor other technical teams, train hourly and technical teams
• Work directly with Greenhouse staff to understand operational challenges and implement practical, employee‑engaged solutions while providing coaching on Lean principles, Six Sigma methods, and statistical analysis tools (e.g., SPC, DOE, regression modeling)
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and controls engineers and vendors to design and implement process improvements and automation solutions
• Collect and interpret operational data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement
• Lead and support process improvement and capital projects from concept through implementation, including timeline, budget, ROI and resource planning
• Partner with HSE and FSQ teams on people safety, environmental and food compliance. Ensure all process changes comply with safety standards, environmental regulations, and company policies
• Maintain accurate records of process changes, performance metrics, and improvement outcomes

The ideal candidate:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Process, Production, Mechanical, Industrial, Chemical, or related) or equivalent experience
• 3–5 years of experience in process engineering, preferably in agriculture, horticulture, food production, or manufacturing
• Available Monday–Friday day shift and occasional night work tied to commissioning or specific projects; available for rotating on‑call schedule (generally limited to occasional phone support/guidance)
• Expertise in data analytics tools (Excel, Minitab, Tableau, etc.) and experience with ERP/MES systems
• Knowledge of automation systems (PLCs, HMIs, SCADA) and control strategy development
• Demonstrated success leading cost savings initiatives, product launches, or system redesigns
• Excellent communication, mentorship, and stakeholder alignment skills

BrightFarms is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer - All qualified applicants/employees will receive consideration for employment without regard to that individual’s age, race, color, religion or creed, national origin or ancestry, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, physical or mental disability, veteran status, genetic information, ethnicity, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by law.