Farm Lab Assistant

Location: Shipshape Hydroponic R&D Lab, Innovation Depot (Birmingham, AL)

Schedule: Part-time

Compensation: Hourly, based on experience

Shipshape AgWorks is an innovative AgTech startup building climate-smart vertical farming systems. We’re looking for a Farm Lab Assistant to help grow and maintain hydroponic crops—including leafy greens, microgreens, and edible flowers—in our R&D lab at the Innovation Depot.

This is a dynamic, hands-on role for someone who’s excited about sustainable farming and ready to adapt in a fast-paced environment. No two days are the same—and we like it that way.

• Assist in planting, monitoring, and harvesting crops using hydroponic systems
• Mix nutrients, manage water systems, and regulate environmental conditions
• Monitor plant health (pests, diseases, deficiencies) and maintain cleanliness
• Support crop scheduling, data collection, and record-keeping
• Package produce for local restaurant clients and assist with occasional deliveries
• Help maintain strict food safety protocols and sanitation standards
• Potentially assist with setup/sales at local farmers markets (future opportunity)
  

• High school diploma or equivalent; experience in farming/gardening/hydroponics is a plus
• Comfortable in a research-focused, experimental lab setting
• Ability to lift 50 lbs and work in physically active conditions
• Willingness to follow safety and cleanliness protocols closely
• Familiarity with digital tools or willingness to learn (data entry, software tracking)
• Reliable transportation and valid driver’s license (for deliveries)
• Passion for sustainability and hands-on problem solving
  

• 95% company-paid BCBS health insurance (if full-time)
• 3 weeks PTO 11 national holidays
• Stock options
• A collaborative and mission-driven work culture
• Office based at Innovation Depot (Downtown Birmingham)
  

This role is primarily based at our headquarters in the Innovation Depot in downtown Birmingham. Depending on the position, work may involve hands-on time in our hydroponic R&D lab, participation in farmers market events, or collaboration across digital and physical systems.

As a startup, our environment is fast-paced, evolving, and highly collaborative. Team members should be comfortable with shifting priorities, physical activity (standing, lifting, bending, etc.), and working with tools, technology, or plant systems in various stages of development.

We value flexibility, problem-solving, and a willingness to grow with the work.