PPO is using brand current technology to transform an old industry that affects everyone on the planet: the food industry. We apply a complex and highly sophisticated mix of hardware, software and huge datasets to improve both the safety and quality of the food we eat. PPO is on a mission to become the world's leading food information company.

We are moving beyond simple detection to provide real-time, actionable insights that help food processors optimize yield, reduce waste, and ensure safety at a global scale. This role is a hybrid role, where you’ll work part of the time from home and part-time from PPO’s offices in Waterloo Ontario. The salary range for this role is $50,000 - $52,000 CAD annually.

Internal equity: As a Junior Implementation Specialist, you will assist in ensuring our hardware and software integrate seamlessly into complex industrial plant networks while managing the customer relationship on the ground. Within the Product Development organization, you will be involved with every aspect of data generation: gathering and interpreting customer requirements, participating in research phases, creating detailed data collection plans, collecting and post-processing data, and assessing the continued health of our measurement logic.

Network & IT Integration Troubleshooting: Assist with diagnosing and resolving networking, connectivity, and IT errors during implementation to ensure smooth, speedy installation, minimizing disruptions and getting our customers up and running quickly.

Security & Compliance: Ensure PPO systems comply with customer network security protocols. In-Field Data Collection & Deployment Data Harvesting: Assist in-field data collection initiatives at customer facilities, gathering high-quality hyperspectral data and environmental metrics to train and calibrate our AI models.



Assist in configuring and fine-tuning physical and software components of the Smart Imaging System on-site to match plant-specific operating conditions.

Post-Processing: Perform data cleaning and annotation following data collection.

Customer & Project Management Technical Support: Assist the primary technical point of contact for the customer throughout the project lifecycle, explaining complex technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Project Delivery: Collaborate with other Implementation Specialists and internal Project Managers to keep deployments on schedule, proactively managing risks and setting clear expectations with the client.

Data & Insights: Work alongside model developers and sales teams to assist in interpreting customer needs and writing data collection plans. Learn to assess data and real-world examples to identify trends around system health, customer usage, and model performance.

Adaptability: Proactively adjust to shifting project scopes, priorities, and deadlines in a dynamic environment.

Continuous

Improvement & Innovation ~ LLMs, copilots) to efficiently generate, debug, and optimize scripts (Python, Bash, etc.) to improve the deployment process and automate repetitive tasks. You bring a unique blend of robust networking/IT acumen, hands-on troubleshooting skills, and client-facing communication. You are adaptable, curious,



and eager to learn across every stage of the implementation and data generation lifecycle.

You approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset and thrive in dynamic environments where priorities can shift quickly. Undergraduate degree or college diploma in a relevant field. General understanding of networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, routing, switching, firewalls, VPNs, and VLAN configurations).

Novice level skill in Linux environments and scripting languages (such as Python or Shell scripting). Comfort utilizing generative AI tools to accelerate code/script writing for solution optimization. Proficient verbal and written communication skills to manage customer expectations and navigate challenging client environments.

Willingness to travel to customer sites (food processing plants) as required for deployments and data collection phases. Able to travel to the US, Europe, and Australia immediately (contingent on having a valid visa to enter the US at the time of hire) - up to 50% of your time. Valid passport and valid driver’s license.

We make sure you have the time and flexibility you need with flex days and vacation time that help you recharge and show up as your best self.

Health Benefits: PPO offers very competitive benefits, including health, dental, vision and more for you and your dependents. Depending on your role, you might work from home, our office or both. Learning is woven into everything we do, from hands‑on collaboration to formal training and education.

P&P; Optica is committed to supporting a culture of diversity across our organization. We welcome and encourage applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. #

📌 IT Consultant (Full Time) (Ontario)
🏢 Pu0026P Optica
📍 Ontario