Biological IPM Research Technician (Recent Graduate)
Location: Niagara Region, ON
Company: Crop Defenders Ltd.
About Crop Defenders Ltd.
Crop Defenders Ltd. is a pioneering biological crop protection company dedicated to producing and supplying ecological alternatives to pesticides for consumable crop growers. Our mission is to improve the lives of millions by enabling growers to produce ecologically grown crops that are safer for farmers, consumers, and the ecosystem. Through continuous innovation in product development, operational optimization, and trusted partnerships, we help growers across North America adopt sustainable practices that support food security and environmental health.
Role Overview
Crop Defenders Ltd. is seeking a motivated recent graduate to support the development, validation, and optimization of biological pest management systems in commercial greenhouse environments.
This role focuses on applied research and field-based experimentation to improve the reliability, consistency, and scalability of biological control methods, including beneficial insects and microbial biopesticides. You will work closely with internal R&D teams and external IPM specialists to generate practical, data-driven solutions that can be implemented by growers.
Key Responsibilities
1. Field Trial Execution
- Conduct greenhouse-based trials evaluating biological control agents and application systems
- Operate and assist in calibrating application equipment (e.g., blower systems, cold foggers)
- Ensure accurate, repeatable implementation of trial protocols across multiple sites
2. Data Collection & Monitoring
- Monitor pest populations and beneficial organism activity before and after applications
- Record observations on establishment, distribution, and performance of biological agents
- Collect and maintain structured, standardized datasets across trials
3. Analysis & Interpretation
- Assist in analyzing trial data to identify trends, variability, and performance differences
- Evaluate factors influencing outcomes, including environmental conditions and application methods
- Contribute to identifying practical improvements for biological control delivery
4. Development of Application Protocols
- Support development of standardized procedures for:
- Application timing and frequency
- Equipment setup and calibration
- Integration of biological solutions into IPM programs
- Translate trial outcomes into clear, field-ready recommendations
5. Documentation & Reporting
- Prepare trial summaries, reports, and technical notes
- Contribute to internal SOPs and training materials
- Maintain organized and traceable records of experiments and results
6. Collaboration & Field Support
- Work closely with R&D teams and external IPM specialists to execute and refine trials
- Support validation trials in commercial greenhouse environments
- Participate in discussions to improve trial design, execution, and application strategies
Qualifications
- Recent graduate (required) in:
- Entomology
- Plant Science
- Agriculture
- Biological Sciences or related field
- Strong interest in biological pest control and sustainable agriculture
- Ability to work in greenhouse environments
- High attention to detail and ability to follow structured protocols
- Basic analytical and problem-solving skills
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
Working Conditions
- Primarily based in commercial greenhouse environments in the Niagara region
- Combination of field work and desk-based data analysis and reporting
- Travel between greenhouse sites may be required
Core Values
At Crop Defenders, we are building a culture of high engagement, ownership, and continuous improvement. Ideal candidates align with the following values:
- Truthful and trustworthy
- Reliable and dependable
- Humble and courageous
- Collaborative and team-oriented
- Process- and improvement-minded
- Driven to create meaningful impact
Why Join Crop Defenders?
- Work at the forefront of sustainable agriculture and biological pest control
- Gain hands-on experience in real-world greenhouse IPM systems
- Collaborate with experienced IPM professionals and researchers
- Contribute to innovations that directly impact food security and environmental health
