We're hiring a Bio-material Engineer to help take Typha Co.'s core processes from concept to commercial scale. Overseeing technical de-risking of horticulture and textile products by channeling early product development to meet desired specifications of distributors and downstream value-chain partners.
You'll work across two parts of the plant:
Seed: Engineering the mechanical and drying systems that process raw typha seeds into high-value down insulation, and assist harvesting optimization.
Stem: Convert the biomass into peat-free substrate, and help scale-up manufacturing of RootPlug from proof of concept toward full production.
This is a hands-on, cross-disciplinary role for someone who wants to see their engineering work move from the lab bench to the greenhouse to the production floor. We welcome applications from recent graduates as well as experienced engineers; the scope of the role will be shaped around the right candidate's background.
What You'll Do
- Design and optimize mechanical processing systems for typha seed and biomass, including shearing/separation mechanisms and drying airflow systems.
- Support scale-up of RootPlug manufacturing, from proof-of-concept equipment through pilot production — including equipment specification, trial batch runs, and process/quality control.
- Design, run, and analyze crop growth trials evaluating substrate and RootPlug performance (yield, water retention, nutrient/pH management, disease resistance) in partnership with nurseries and academic collaborators.
- Conduct lab testing (water, soil, substrate) and translate results into process and formulation improvements.
- Develop technical specifications, SOPs, and QC protocols for new equipment and production processes.
- Collaborate with universities, colleges, and industry partners on trial design and technology validation.
- Contribute technical content to grant reporting, IP documentation, and internal project planning.
What We're Looking For
- Degree in Biosystems Engineering, Agricultural / Bioresource Engineering, or a related engineering discipline (recent graduates welcome).
- Candidates under the age of 30 will be considered; this is a youth employment program opportunity.
- Experience in agriculture, horticulture, or agri-processing — through co-ops, research, field work, or professional roles.
- Comfort working hands-on across lab, greenhouse, and manufacturing/shop environments.
- Working knowledge of mechanical/process equipment, fluid or airflow systems, or drying processes is a strong asset.
- Solid data analysis skills (Excel and at least one of R, Python, or similar).
- Strong communication skills — this role works closely with academic partners, nursery clients, and the founding team.
- A valid driver's license for occasional site visits to nurseries and trial locations.
- Familiarity with growing media/substrate science or sustainable/regenerative agriculture.
- Prior experience in a startup or small-team environment where roles span multiple functions.
- Interest in circular bioeconomy and clean-tech applications in agriculture.
What We Offer
- The chance to own engineering projects end-to-end, from concept through commercial-scale production, at a growing Canadian ag-tech company.
- A collaborative, small-team environment with direct exposure to leadership and strategic decisions.
- Fair compensation and the opportunity to grow with the company.
Pay: $40,000.00-$55,000.00 per year
Education:
- Bachelor's Degree (required)
Experience:
- Sustainable agriculture: 2 years (preferred)
Location:
Work Location: In person
