Coquitlam, BC

Facilities Specialist (Coquitlam, BC)

About Oppy

Grow Our Tomorrow. Oppy is a leading grower, marketer, and distributor of fresh produce from around the world. As one of North America’s top produce companies for nearly 165 years, we bring over 100 varieties of produce from 27 countries to 1,300+ retailers in North America and throughout the world. As much as agriculture has shaped the past for humankind, Oppy’s efforts shape its future by sustainably providing families with healthy, safe, and fresh produce to create a better quality of life for all. Our progressive team is called to a higher purpose that raises the economic wellbeing of families and communities who work the land.

Recognized as one Canada’s Best Managed Companies (for the last 20 years!) and a Top Employer in BC, our diverse team of dedicated professionals collaborate and make connections across our locations throughout North and South America. We owe our success to our adaptability, innovative and entrepreneurial approach, our commitment to our people, and the incredible relationships we build. We are looking for talented people who love a fast-paced, dynamic environment where you can grow your skills and career in a sector with abundant opportunity. Grow your tomorrow with us, today.

Overview

The Facilities Specialist is responsible for the efficient operation and tactical oversight of our corporate facilities across Canada and the USA. This multifaceted role encompasses maintenance programs, procurement, property lease management, security protocols, and facility related sustainability efforts. Armed with knowledge in facilities management best practices, building maintenance/utilities systems, and budget management, alongside exemplary communication and problem-solving skills, the Facilities Manager ensures our facilities are well maintained and meet organizational goals. An organized, proactive approach and versatile skill set are paramount to the role to achieve operational efficiency, safety, sustainability, and organizational excellence.

The starting base salary range of this position is $68,000 – $80,000. Our starting salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position based in our U.S. and Canada office locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by various factors including location, job-related skills, relevant experience, education, formal training, and internal equity.

Key Accountabilities

  • Oversees and executes comprehensive maintenance programs for the corporate head office based in Coquitlam, BC, ensuring the smooth functioning of all facilities and systems.
  • Coordinates with internal teams and external service providers to schedule and conduct preventive maintenance, inspections, and repairs, adhering to industry standards and regulatory requirements.
  • Evaluates contractors and products to ensure quality and cost-effectiveness, negotiating pricing and terms to maximize value for the organization.
  • Provides assistance as needed to all offices across Canada and the USA regarding procurement decisions, maintenance issues, and facility improvements; anticipates future needs and plans accordingly.
  • Regularly communicates progress updates on assigned projects and initiatives to senior management, addressing facilities-related matters such as office relocations, provisioning, design enhancements, and seasonal staff housing needs.
  • Collaborates with stakeholders to develop strategic plans for facility upgrades, renovations, and expansions, aligning with organizational objectives and budgetary constraints.
  • Fosters strong relationships with property managers and landlords, evaluating the suitability of existing and potential facilities while ensuring responsiveness to organizational needs.
  • Negotiates lease agreements, renewals, and terms, overseeing lease administration processes and effectively managing facility-related expenses.
  • Provides procurement and maintenance support to warehouse and food safety operations in Vancouver and Calgary, ensuring the optimal functionality of coolers, repack automation systems, conveying equipment, and overall warehouse facilities.
  • Conducts frequent site walkthroughs of the head office and warehouse facilities to identify and address safety hazards and compliance issues in support of the health & safety committee mandates; collaborates with warehouse management and Talent & Culture to implement corrective measures.
  • Assesses existing security protocols and procedures, implementing enhancements as needed to safeguard personnel, assets, and sensitive information.
  • Performs 24/7 on-call requirements in response to facilities events, including power outages and security alarms.
  • Delivers comprehensive security training programs to staff members as required, ensuring awareness of security best practices and emergency response protocols.
  • Develops and manages annual budgets for facilities maintenance, repairs, renovations, and capital expenditures, forecasting expenses and prioritizing investments to align with organizational objectives and financial goals.
  • Facilitates the application process for local building permits, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and zoning ordinances.
  • Oversees the project management of local construction initiatives, coordinating with contractors, vendors, and internal stakeholders to ensure timely completion within budgetary constraints.
  • Engages proactively in the Sustainability Committee, identifies facility related opportunities for resource conservation, waste reduction, energy efficiency improvements, and other environmentally sustainable practices.

Required Knowledge & Abilities

  • Advanced knowledge of facilities management best practices, including maintenance, safety, security, and space planning.
  • Working knowledge of building systems, including electrical, plumbing, and commercial refrigeration to oversee maintenance and repairs; ability to perform basic repairs as required is an asset.
  • Experience in sourcing, negotiating contracts, and managing relationships with external service providers and contractors; previous experience in commercial property lease management required.
  • Strong understanding of emergency response protocols and procedures to ensure the safety and security of the facility and occupants.
  • Proven ability in the development and management of annual budgets for maintenance, repairs, and renovations.
  • Demonstrated understanding of ergonomic principles and best practices, including assessments of workstations and equipment, to optimize workspace design, reduce workplace injuries, and enhance employee well-being.
  • Intermediate knowledge of relevant Microsoft office programs, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with an ability to problem solve and make appropriate recommendations and decisions.
  • Exceptional interpersonal, communication (written & verbal) and customer service skills; ability to work effectively with all departments and forge strong relationships with all other stakeholders.
  • Proven ability in exercising good judgement and maintaining confidentiality of sensitive information; demonstrates a high level of integrity, ethics, and professionalism at all times.
  • Strong organization and time management skills; ability to prioritize multiple demands in a timely manner.
  • Positive and engaging attitude, with a commitment to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and fun working environment.

Required Qualifications

  • Degree, diploma, or related industry training in a related field is an asset; successful completion of a facilities management certification and/or program preferred.
  • Minimum, 3 – 6 years’ related experience in facilities coordination and management.
  • Successful completion of an ergonomics certification and/or program considered an asset.

Why Oppy?

  • We are the perfect size of organization that is still nimble but yet organized, where meaningful impact and contributions happen.
  • We have a strong culture with terrific people that care about the business and each other. We want our people to grow and succeed.
  • We believe in you bringing your best true self and your best ideas, because diverse perspectives contribute to better problem solving and solutions in a dynamic and ever evolving industry.
  • We support your professional development and health with educational reimbursement and wellness programs.
  • We offer a competitive total compensation package that includes a full benefits package, lifestyle spending account, continuing educational support and company contributions to pension plan.

Inclusion and Equal Opportunity Employment

Oppy is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer who actively seeks to recruit retain individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. We are dedicated to fostering a culture where every employee feels valued, respected, and empowered to be themselves at work. We care about the uniqueness of our applicants, employees, and partners. Diversity is fundamental to our success because it brings a range of perspectives that fuel innovation and excellence. That’s why we’re focused on creating an inclusive culture where every employee can contribute their unique talents and ideas.

We gratefully thank all applicants for their interest, however, only candidates under consideration will be contacted directly.

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