Technical Assistant, Research & Development

Vineland Research and Innovation Centre (Vineland) can help you grow your career because we are looking for a Technical Assistant to join our amazing team on full-time contract, until March 31, 2026.

Vineland is a uniquely Canadian results-oriented organization dedicated to horticulture science and innovation. We are an independent, not-for-profit organization, funded in part by the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), a five-year, federal-provincial-territorial initiative. We deliver innovative products, solutions and services through an integrated and collaborative cross-country network to advance Canada’s research and commercialization agenda.

Overview

The Technical Assistant will work within one or more Program Groups within Research & Development. The position will provide support for the execution of greenhouse, field and lab activities for various internal and contract projects.

Duties & Responsibilities

Principal Accountabilities

Work closely with applicable R&D staff; greenhouse and field managers; lab staff.
Perform physical work in field and greenhouse facilities assisting with plant care and experiments.
Seed new plant material, transplant raising, as well as assisting with budding, fertigation, pruning, clipping, suckering, harvest, seed organization and storage.
Assist as needed in active soils lab which may include exposure to dust, dirt and soil odours.

Other

Work safely in the greenhouse, field and lab is absolutely required. This involves adhering to standard operating procedures for plant maintenance techniques, wearing the appropriate equipment for each task, and frequently asking for direction as needed.
Work as part of the team and be willing to take direction and suggestions.
Position requires long hours of standing; bending; lifting/twisting; tasks may be repetitive and physically demanding.
Work safely in accordance with the Occupational Health & Safety Act and related regulations, including adherence to standard operating procedures.
Participate in corporate training.
Perform other duties as required.

Qualifications

Post-secondary education (B.Sc. or Diploma) in plant or horticultural sciences
Minimum of 1-2 years’ related experience working in greenhouse, field and lab environments.
Valid Ontario Driver’s License
Current WHMIS training
Valid First AID/CPR Certificate an asset

Additional Knowledge and Skills

Experience in support of scientific research.
Demonstrated ability to grow, transplant, prune and harvest.
Experience taking notes and managing datasets in an organized manner.
Ability to lift heavy objects (40 pounds).
Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions; exposure to working in hot conditions.
Ability to complete daily/weekly goals on time with minimal supervision.
Demonstrated skills in problem solving.
Experience working with ladders, lifts and jacks or at heights is an asset.
Experience working with shovels and digging in soils in a variety of environments is an asset.
Strong computer and technology skills would be an asset.

Contract Position

Closing date: July 18, 2025

Location: Vineland Research and Development Centre, Vineland Station, Ontario

Apply Today

Please fill out the online application for this position. You will receive confirmation that your application has been received. Only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.

Our people are the most important asset in achieving our goals and are known in the world for excellence in science and entrepreneurship.

Our staff enjoys outstanding benefits and an exciting and challenging work environment noted for collaboration and knowledge sharing all set against a backdrop of natural beauty.

Career Opportunity