Vice President of Engineering

Overview

Job Title: Vice President of Engineering (Co-Founder Capacity)

Location: Hamilton, ON (Hybrid – The Forge, McMaster Innovation Park)

Job Type: Full-time (Equity-Based / Probationary Trial)

MiON Forest is a climate‑tech startup pioneering the future of reforestation. We combine biodegradable "MiON Pot" seedling capsules, soil microbiome activation technology, and AI‑driven drone systems to restore degraded ecosystems. As we transition from R&D to operational deployment in 2026, we are looking for a technical visionary to lead our engineering strategy.

We are seeking a VP of Engineering / Co-Founder to partner directly with the CEO. You will not just manage a team; you will architect the integrated systems—mechanical, mechatronics, and software—that will allow us to scale tree planting to millions of trees.

• System Integration & R&D: Lead the design, prototyping, and integration of seedling shooter systems and drone‑mounted planting modules. You will oversee cross‑disciplinary efforts in mechanical, mechatronics, and AI/software integration.
• Strategic
  
  Roadmap:
  
  Establish the engineering roadmap, setting technical milestones that align with our funding, pilot projects, and business goals.
• Team Building: Build and mentor a high‑performing engineering team, including students, interns, and contractors, ensuring quality and motivation across varied experience levels.
• Operational Deployment: Transition our technology from lab prototypes to real‑world, field‑deployed solutions, ensuring they meet ecological requirements and withstand operational challenges.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all drone operations comply with Transport Canada regulations and safety standards.

• Entrepreneurial: You thrive in lean, fast‑paced startup environments and are comfortable with risk, motivated by long‑term equity rewards.
• Technical Expert: You have a strong background in mechanical system design, actuation, and controls, with valuable experience in software integration (AI / vision systems).
• Problem Solver: You demonstrate creative problem‑solving skills, capable of identifying root causes in complex mechanical or drone systems.
• Mission‑Driven: You are deeply passionate about sustainability and using technology to solve the climate crisis.

This is primarily an equity‑focused Co‑Founder role to start.

Salary: Minimal / Stipend initially, with a roadmap to market salary upon securing 2026 funding.

Trial Period: We begin with a 1‑month probationary trial in January 2026 to ensure alignment.

Join us to engineer solutions that make a global difference.

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