R&d Technician - Pitt Meadows, Canada - UP Vertical Farms

UP Vertical Farms

Verified Company

Pitt Meadows, Canada

2 weeks ago

Posted by:

Sophia Lee

beBee Recruiter

Description

We are seeking a skilled and motivated R&D Technician to join our team in the field of vertical farming.

The R&D Technician will be responsible for carrying out various tasks related to plant cultivation, harvesting, sample preparation, data collection, system maintenance, and innovation in our state-of-the-art vertical farming facility.

This role will work closely with the R&D Manager and other teams to optimize plant growth and well-being, implement system improvements, and develop new processes/products to improve efficiency and productivity.

REGULAR DUTIES

Carry out filling rafts with medium, seeding, relocation, spacing, and irrigation of plants under controlled environment agriculture (CEA) in R&D room and commercial greenhouse.
Collect and maintain data records relating to crop health, environmental data, trials, and sanitation.
Perform tasks for R&D facilities including seeding trials, sanitation, maintenance, inventory, and fertigation.
Assist with implementing provisions required to improve and optimize plant growth and wellbeing.
Evaluate system improvement possibilities and implement approved suggestions from R&D manager, other teams, affiliate company teams, and clients.
Evaluate and innovate new potential processes/products to save growing and operating costs.
Evaluate and innovate new potential processes/products for future crops/products.
Perform maintenance tasks for R&D systems, including pumps, irrigation, CO2, O2, O3, HVAC units, automatic control systems, and more.
Carry out cleaninplace procedures and daytoday maintenance and operation of the grow areas, germination rooms, and ancillary areas of the R&D facilities.
Ensure all grow equipment and machinery in use are in proper operating condition and that all crop hygiene practices are followed.
Comply with food safety, worker safety, and Occupational Health & Safety policies.
Complete daily key operational checklists, including nutrition, fertilizer, oxygen, temperatures, and humidity.
Assist with samples, packaging, and scheduling needed for deliveries to clients from R&D facilities.
Collect biological and climatic data to create better formulas and processes.
Collect quantitative and qualitative data throughout the lifecycle of the plants for R&D purposes.
Keep neat and accurate electronic records and documentation of all data, formulas, and processes.
Achieve work results by good communication practices, establishing priorities, monitoring progress, revising schedules as needed, and resolving problems.
Recognize and respond to plant diseases and pests, including daily integrated pest management duties.
Operate computerized and other control systems.
Monitor machine operation and perform inprocess checks, adjusting as necessary.
Ensure all equipment and machinery are in proper operating condition and that all crop hygiene practices are followed.
Adhere to the Safety Policies, including the use of proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and other safety equipment.
Maintain sanitation protocols and clean and sterilize all equipment and grow areas of R&D facilities.
Complete assignments given that may involve the use of a personal vehicle.
Perform other duties as instructed.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Ability to work independently and in a team environment
Ability to manage multiple tasks under specific timelines
Excellent organizational and prioritization skills
Excellent work ethic and not afraid to get hands dirty.
Strong problemsolving skills and ability to make decisions in a fastpaced environment
Strong attention to detail
Ability to communicate effectively in English both verbally and in writing
Ability to lift up to 25lbs

QUALIFICATIONS

Must-haves:

Currently enrolled or recently graduated from a horticultural program or related field.
Fundamental understanding of plant growth and cultivation principles.
Experience with data collection and record keeping.
Interest in growing food in modern, innovative ways
Experience safely handling chemicals or working in a lab setting
Experience with Microsoft Office Suite (i.e., Word, Outlook, Excel, Teams, etc.)
Valid B.C. Class 5 Driver's License

Nice-to-haves:

Familiarity with controlled environment agriculture (CEA) and vertical farming.
Ability to operate and maintain horticultural equipment and machinery.
Knowledge of integrated pest management (IPM) practices.
Experience working with food safety programs and regulations
Experience with administrative procedures considered an asset

WORK CONDITIONS

Ability to work indoors and outdoors in various weather conditions
May be requested to assist the R&D department onsite outside of regular work hours (i.e., evenings, weekends).
Use of personal vehicle may be required

Job Types:
Full-time, Contract

Job Types:
Full-time, Fixed term contract

Benefits: