Mechanical Engineer, Co-op Student

Food Cycle Science (FCS) Corporation designs, sells, and distributes food waste management solutions that aim to tackle the ever-growing problem of food waste. We are revolutionizing food waste management by offering unique products and innovative solutions that create sustainable practices and convert everyday food scraps into nutrient-rich, garden-ready fertilizers for households, businesses, and municipalities. We promote an environmentally sustainable life cycle, reducing landfill GHG emissions and reducing the exorbitant cost of food waste management.

We are in a new and emerging sector that is fast-paced and evolving each day. Food Cycle Science is an industry pioneer and thought leader when it comes to food waste management with products and solutions offered in several countries globally. You can work with our great team members and help change the way the world thinks about food waste.

We are looking for a Mechanical Engineering Co-op Student to join our dynamic R&D team for the Winter 2026 semester Please visit our website at for more information on our product offerings. To learn more about our recent awards, please see below:

Awards:

• Deloitte Fast 50 Canada 2024 = #7 Clean Technology
• Deloitte Fast 50 Canada 2023 = #9 Clean Technology
• Deloitte Fast 500 North America 2024 = #187
• Deloitte Fast 500 North America 2023 = #304
• Globe and Mail's Top Growing Companies in Canada 2024 = #66
• Globe and Mail's Top Growing Companies in Canada 2023 = #108
• Top 20 Ottawa's Fastest Growing Companies 2024 (#19)
• Top 10 Ottawa's Fastest Growing Companies 2023 (#5)

Reporting to an experienced Product Design Engineer, the Mechanical Engineering Co-op Student will assist in optimizing and improving existing and future FoodCycler products. Working closely with Product Engineers and other team members, the student will develop and conduct tests to identify and validate mechanical and software improvements.

The incumbent may also research and perform feasibility analyses (including verification and validation) for implementing novel technologies into existing or new products. They may be expected to design, build, and prepare prototypes for testing and validation.

This role is a key part of the product development team and helps ensure that FoodCycler continues to produce appealing, high-quality, and environmentally responsible products that are second to none.

• Assist in creating 3D CAD models and detailed drawings using SolidWorks.
• Conduct testing and analysis to identify opportunities for mechanical design and software process improvements.
• Collaborate with the R&D team and contribute ideas for product and process enhancements.
• Support the design, prototyping, and validation of mechanical components and assemblies.
• Perform competitor product teardowns and testing, and communicate key findings to the engineering team.
• Prepare clear, concise reports to document test results, design evaluations, and insights.
• Conduct feasibility studies of new methods and technologies, including estimating costs and identifying manufacturing methods.
• Analyze current product offerings to identify improvements in quality, performance, aesthetics, and cost-efficiency.
• Work with shop tools to modify and assemble components for testing.
• Support ongoing lab improvement initiatives, including organizing and installing new equipment.
• Complete other duties and projects as assigned.

• Must be actively enrolled in a post-secondary program (undergraduate degree, four-year college, or university) in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and effectively.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey information in a clear, focused, and concise manner.
• Ability to present technical information in business-friendly and user-friendly language to non-technical audiences.
• Creative mindset with strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with demonstrated diplomacy and professionalism.
• Interest in developing technical skills through internal mentorship.
• Exceptional organizational abilities, including task prioritization, multitasking, and effective time management.

The following qualifications would be an asset:

• Previous co-op or internship experience in mechanical engineering or product design
• Experience with consumer electronics or kitchen appliance product development
• Proficiency in hands-on use of 2D and 3D CAD software such as Creo or SolidWorks
• Experience working with 3D printers
• Proficiency with coding, including Arduino and Python
• Experience with product safety standards and certifications
• Familiarity with GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing)
• Experience in high-volume consumer product development and manufacturing
• Experience setting up experiments and operating measurement devices
• Basic knowledge of manufacturing processes such as injection molding, die casting, and sheet metal stamping

• Central Ottawa office location
• A FoodCycler unit for your own kitchen
• Competitive hourly wage
• Regular social and team-building get-togethers for all team members

Please take the time to tell us about yourself in a cover letter – we want to hear your story – your background, your accomplishments, and why this role is a good fit for you.

Please submit your cover letter and résumé to our online portal by November 24, 2025. Please note that all applications will be acknowledged, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Compensation will be market competitive and will be dependent on your qualifications and experience. This posting will remain active on our website until our search process is complete.

Food Cycle Science Corporation is committed to providing an inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection process. Please contact us in confidence at and provide notice in advance if you require accommodations at any stage of the recruitment process. All requests for accommodation(s) will be considered in a fair and objective manner that will ensure applicants are treated with respect and dignity.