Grower Technologist

About GrowBuildLearn

GrowBuildLearn (GBL) is a social impact enterprise combining smart hydroponic technology, AI-powered education support, and immersive STEM curriculum to address food security and educational engagement challenges. Our mission is to empower individuals and communities to grow food, build sustainable systems, and learn together.

We're creating innovative solutions that make year-round food production accessible while delivering engaging hands-on STEM education to schools and communities across Ontario.

OJCP Funding & Eligibility

This position is funded through the Ontario Job Creation Partnerships (OJCP) program. To be eligible for this opportunity, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be an Ontario resident

• Currently unemployed or working less than 20 hours per week

• Actively seeking full-time employment

• Meet ONE of the following criteria:

  • Currently receiving EI benefits, OR

  • Received EI benefits within the previous 60 months, OR

  • Has paid EI premiums (deductions taken off your pay stub) in at least 3 of the last 10 years

Position Overview

Lead research and development to optimize GrowBuildLearn's Hydro-Garden systems for production-ready deployment. This hands-on R&D role combines horticultural expertise with technical innovation, conducting growing trials, testing equipment configurations, and developing best practices to ensure our hydroponic systems deliver consistent, abundant harvests in educational and community settings.

Perfect for recent graduates of Greenhouse Technician programs or similar horticulture/agriculture programs who want to apply their growing knowledge in product development and agricultural innovation.

Key Responsibilities

Product Research & Development (50%)

• Conduct growing trials to identify optimal conditions for diverse crops (leafy greens, herbs, microgreens)

• Test and evaluate LED grow light configurations for different plant types and growth stages

• Optimize nutrient formulations, pH management, and environmental controls

• Document growing protocols and create standardized operating procedures

• Design and test system improvements using 3D printing and rapid prototyping

• Collaborate with equipment suppliers to refine hardware specifications

• Troubleshoot technical issues and develop solutions for common growing challenges

System Testing & Quality Assurance (25%)

• Run pilot tests of complete growing systems from seed to harvest

• Monitor system performance metrics (yield, growth rates, plant health, resource efficiency)

• Evaluate different growing media, pod designs, and system configurations

• Test sensor accuracy and calibration procedures

• Identify potential failure points and develop preventive maintenance protocols

• Conduct durability and reliability testing on system components

• Create quality control checklists for production units

Technical Documentation & Knowledge Development (15%)

• Create comprehensive growing guides for different crop varieties

• Document best practices for system setup, operation, and maintenance

• Develop troubleshooting resources and technical support materials

• Photograph and document growth cycles for educational content

• Write technical specifications for manufacturing and assembly

• Create training materials for future installers and users

• Contribute to product improvement recommendations based on testing data

Prototype Development & Manufacturing Support (10%)

• Work with 3D printing and prototyping facilities to create custom components

• Test modular design features and repair/replacement procedures

• Collaborate with manufacturing team on assembly process optimization

• Ensure food-grade material compliance and safety standards

• Support transition from prototype to production-ready systems

• Participate in design reviews and product development planning

Required Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Post-secondary diploma or certificate in greenhouse technology, horticulture, agriculture, environmental science, or related field (recent graduates encouraged to apply!)

• OR equivalent combination of education and hands-on growing experience

• Strong understanding of hydroponic or controlled environment agriculture systems

• Interest in product development, agricultural innovation, and R&D

• Valid Ontario driver's license (occasional supplier visits and testing site access)

Technical Knowledge

• Deep understanding of plant biology, nutrient management, and growing systems

• Knowledge of environmental controls (lighting, temperature, humidity, pH management)

• Experience with or strong interest in LED grow lighting technology

• Hands-on troubleshooting and experimental design abilities

• Basic understanding of electrical systems, water pumps, and sensors

• Familiarity with 3D printing, CAD design, or prototyping (or willingness to learn)

• Comfortable with data collection, analysis, and documentation

• Ability to learn new systems and technology quickly

Core Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and scientific methodology

• Excellent documentation and technical writing skills

• Self-directed with ability to manage experiments and testing protocols

• Analytical mindset with passion for problem-solving and optimization

• Physical ability to lift 50 lbs and work with growing systems and equipment

• Commitment to food security, environmental sustainability, and innovation

• Team player who collaborates well with product development team

• Curious and eager to experiment with new growing techniques and technologies

Preferred Qualifications (Nice to Have, But Not Required!)

• Experience with controlled environment agriculture research or trials

• Knowledge of circular economy principles and sustainable design

• Experience with data analysis tools or scientific documentation

• Understanding of food safety and NSF food-grade material standards

• Previous internship or co-op experience in agricultural research or product development

• Bilingual (English/French) an asset

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage based on experience (minimum $18/hour at 40 hours per week)

• Flexible hybrid/remote work arrangement

• Professional development opportunities

• Equipment provided as needed

• Access to AI tool subscriptions and digital marketing platforms

• Meaningful work with direct social impact

Work Environment

This role is primarily based at the GBL office and R&D facility in Niagara, with occasional travel to suppliers, testing sites, or prototyping facilities. Work involves hands-on activities with growing systems, prototyping equipment, and testing environments. Schedule is primarily weekday business hours with flexibility for experimental timelines and harvest/planting schedules. Physical requirements include standing for extended periods, lifting equipment up to 50 lbs, working with water-based growing systems, and operating prototyping equipment.

Our Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion

GrowBuildLearn is committed to building a diverse team that reflects the communities we serve. We strongly encourage applications from individuals who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), persons with disabilities, members of 2SLGBTQ+ communities, and individuals from underserved communities.

We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment. If you require accommodation during the application or interview process, please let us know and we will work with you to meet your needs.

Empowering communities to grow food, build sustainable systems, and learn together.