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.