Job Description

Operations & Field Service Co-op

Company:

VCycene Inc.

Job Title:

Operations & Field Service Co-op

Employment Type:

Co-op (Contract-based)

Location:

Markham, ON

Duration:

January 5, 2026 - April 30, 2026 (4 months, with possible extension to August 31, 2026)

Compensation:

$18.00 CAD per hour, 40 hours per week, paid bi-weekly by cheque

About VCycene Inc.

VCycene Inc. is an innovative hardware startup specializing in LILA smart composters. We combine mechanical engineering with cutting-edge technology to create sustainable solutions for residential composting. This co-op role offers hands-on experience bridging the gap between engineering design and real-world product reliability in a dynamic startup environment.

Position Overview

This role serves as the hands-on operational support backbone for VCycene. As an Operations & Field Service Co-op student, you will be responsible for the physical validation of LILA composters, managing logistics and inventory, and providing in-field service to customers. The position involves significant physical activity, including lifting equipment and driving to customer locations.

Key Responsibilities

Logistics & Inventory Management

Manage incoming and outgoing shipments for equipment and parts Lift, load, and transport machines (approximately 30-40 kg) between storage and the office for testing and assembly

Field Service & Diagnostics

Drive to customer homes to diagnose machine issues on-site Perform repairs, part replacements, or unit swap-outs when required Communicate technical findings back to the engineering team

Hardware QA & Validation

Conduct end-of-line testing, including flipping machines and removing casing/PCB covers Set up hardware connections for firmware flashing and validation Document test results and identify defects for engineering review

Production Testing

Maintain the active testing lab by running compost cycles Add food waste daily to test units and log physical decomposition data Monitor equipment performance and report anomalies

Mechanical Build & Assembly

Assemble and rework mechanical sub-assemblies using hand tools and lab equipment Support production readiness and quality assurance processes

What You'll Learn

Practical troubleshooting and field repair techniques for consumer hardware products Logistics coordination and defect tracking in a hardware startup environment Hands-on experience with mechanical prototyping, assembly, and QA validation Effective communication of mechanical issues to software and design teams Real-world product reliability and customer service in a fast-paced startup

Required Qualifications

Valid driver's license

and access to a personal vehicle for work-related travel (customer visits and inventory transportation)

Physical capability

to lift and carry objects up to 40 kg (approximately 90 lbs) regularly

Currently enrolled

in a Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, or related co-op program

Reliable transportation

and willingness to travel to customer locations within the region Strong attention to detail and ability to document findings accurately

Preferred Qualifications

Background or experience in software development or technical troubleshooting Familiarity with hardware assembly or electronics Previous field service or customer-facing technical support experience Experience with inventory management or logistics systems

Additional Information

All intellectual property, inventions, and improvements created during your work are the property of VCycene Inc. You will be required to maintain confidentiality of proprietary information and company trade secrets All company property, tools, and equipment must be returned upon completion or termination of employment Compensation is provided bi-weekly by cheque

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit the following to huayi@virgohome.io:

Resume Cover letter highlighting relevant experience Valid driver's license copy Enrollment verification from your co-op program

Application Deadline:

2025-01-05

Job Types: Full-time, Seasonal
Contract length: 4 months

Pay: $17.50-$18.50 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

Flexible schedule On-site parking
Ability to commute/relocate:

Markham, ON L3R 9Z7: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Application question(s):

Has access to a car
Licence/Certification:

Driving Licence (required)
Work Location: In person