The Refrigeration and Energy Manager is responsible for the implementation and optimization of our refrigeration and energy programs across retail. You will use predictive analytics such as StoreConnect® or other relevant technology, as well as your refrigeration systems knowledge to drive continuous improvement. This role ensures operational reliability, security, energy efficiency, and regulatory compliance while supporting strategic initiatives that align with corporate goals. The Refrigeration and Energy Manager will work closely with cross-functional teams, including IT, facility technicians, vendors, project managers, stakeholders, customers, and senior management to deliver continuous improvement within scope and on budget.

Lowes Foods is proud to be a local employer! We offer great pay and excellent benefits including a discount for shopping, Paid Time Off, Medical, Dental, and Vision, 401K and Pension Plan, and more!

1. Refrigeration and StoreConnect® Program Leadership
   • Oversee deployment and performance of the StoreConnect® platform, a cloud-based predictive analytics system for refrigeration monitoring.
   • Collaborate with the Facilities team to prioritize and plan work activities aimed at prevention of refrigeration failures and leak events.
   • Implement consistent and reliable refrigeration software configuration across the enterprise.
   • Create system and controller access rights.
   • Create disaster recovery plans, including software backups and disaster recovery plans.
   • Develop plans to address obsolescence through spare parts acquisition, upgrades, and capital planning.
   • Collaborate with vendors (e.g., Hussmann, SmartSense, Sonitrol) to ensure seamless integration of hardware and software components.
   • Lead the transition from reactive to reliability-centered maintenance, using StoreConnect® data to drive early detection and scheduled service.
2. Energy Management
   • Develop an energy program that drives improved energy consumption, operational discipline, and aligns with sustainability goals.
   • Monitor and analyze energy usage across facilities to identify cost-saving opportunities.
   • Implement energy-saving initiatives such as compressor protection, leak detection, and optimized configurations.
   • Track and report on energy KPIs, including refrigerant loss avoidance, compressor uptime, and carbon credit opportunities.
3. Strategic Planning and Budget Oversight
   • Develop and oversee budgets for refrigeration and energy systems, including capital expenditures for refrigerant conversions and refrigerant purchasing.
   • Align StoreConnect® and energy initiatives with broader corporate sustainability goals.
4. Team and Vendor Coordination
   • Support cross-functional teams, including internal technicians, IT, and external partners with refrigeration and energy projects.
   • Define roles and responsibilities within the StoreConnect® work stream to ensure accountability and clarity.
   • Support onboarding and training of new team members and interns, including engagement with vendor liaisons.
5. Compliance and Reporting
   • Ensure adherence to federal and state regulations (e.g., AIM Act) through proactive monitoring, data collection, and documentation.
   • Maintain detailed records of system performance, leak rates, confirmed fixes, internal audits, and executive reporting.
6. SOP Development and Standardization
   • Create and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for refrigeration and energy systems.
   • Lead initiatives to standardize refrigeration and energy practices across locations such as "Refrigeration Addition" across the enterprise.
7. R

Technical degree and/or equivalent skills in Refrigeration, Business, Facilities Management, Engineering, or a related field. Minimum of 5 years of experience in project or program management, refrigeration, facilities maintenance, or engineering, preferably in a retail or grocery environment, with supervisory experience. Robust knowledge of building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, refrigeration), excellent problem-solving abilities, and Microsoft 365 and project management tools. Relevant certifications include the Universal EPA License, Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Facility Manager (CFM), and Facility Management Professional (FMP). Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with staff, contractors, and senior management.

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