AMPS Solar Opens Manufacturing Facility in Hanford
The 24-hour facility will create over 600 jobs, changing the labor demand for local operators in the Central Valley.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Manufacturing
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AMPS Solar is opening a new manufacturing facility in Hanford at the site of a former Del Monte tomato processing plant. The operation will run up to 24 hours a day and is projected to create more than 600 jobs across multiple production phases.
Why it matters
The repurposing of existing industrial infrastructure allows the company to rapidly scale operations in the Central Valley. Operators should monitor local labor market shifts as the facility begins hiring for 200-employee shifts.
The new facility aims to support over 600 jobs in the region, with each production shift requiring approximately 200 employees. The site is designed to run continuously for up to 24 hours per day.
The players
AMPS Solar
A solar energy manufacturing company expanding its industrial footprint in California.
Del Monte
A global food production and distribution firm that formerly operated the Hanford facility.
The details
AMPS Solar acquired the former Del Monte processing and distribution site to serve as its base of operations. The facility will be brought online in phases, with staffing encompassing roles in assembly, manufacturing, packaging, and shipping. Management will utilize both skilled and entry-level positions to fill the 200-person shifts required to maintain round-the-clock production.
Timeline
November 2026: AMPS Solar begins filling open positions.
Next few years: Target timeframe for the creation of 600 jobs.
Market Landscape
This facility represents a continuation of the trend of converting former food processing plants into active manufacturing hubs to save on development time. It mirrors regional industrial shifts where legacy agricultural infrastructure is retrofitted for the growing renewable energy sector.
Local businesses should prepare for increased competition for labor as the facility begins its hiring process in November 2026. Reviewing current wage offerings and retention strategies now will help firms manage the local market shift before the 24-hour operation scales up.
The takeaway
The move demonstrates how manufacturers are leveraging existing industrial footprints to scale production without waiting for new construction. Operators should monitor hiring announcements starting November 2026 to gauge the impact on local labor availability and wage competition.
Further reading
For more on industry facility trends, visit Manufacturing.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KMPH.
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