Join the Pioneering Team at Zero Point Cryogenics
Why Choose Zero Point Cryogenics?
At Zero Point Cryogenics, we are not just a company, we are a hub of cutting-edge scientific innovation. If your passion lies in pioneering technology and you thrive in an environment of deep technological exploration, we offer you a unique growth opportunity. As part of our rapidly growing team in Canada, you'll join a proud collective of educated and skilled professionals dedicated to solving some of the most complex problems in the field of cryogenics. We value each team member's unique contributions and ensure that work-life balance is not just a concept, but a practice.
What We Do
At Zero Point Cryogenics, we specialize in the development and commercialization of state-of-the-art dilution refrigerators – the cornerstone technology for quantum computing and research. Originating from a low-temperature physics research group at the University of Alberta, our focus on excellence and innovation is unwavering. We are committed to improving our existing systems and innovating new solutions to meet our diverse clientele's needs. ZPC’s clientele includes quantum computing companies, academic institutions, and government laboratories.
Who We are Looking for
We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply, even if you do not meet every qualification listed below.
We are seeking a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead and scale ZPC’s operational functions during a critical phase of growth. This role is suited for a leader who thrives in fast-paced, build-and-scale environments and is comfortable operating across both strategy and execution.
This role requires someone who can build systems and develop people. You will play a key role in mentoring and elevating our operations and production leaders, helping them grow into strong, accountable managers while establishing the structure needed to scale effectively.
You will work closely with the CTO and leadership team to translate business strategy into operational execution while strengthening leadership capability across the organization.
What Will You Do
Working closely with the leadership team, you will oversee and evolve ZPC’s operational infrastructure.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Leading and scaling core operational functions including production, manufacturing, supply chain, and project delivery
- Turn company goals into clear plans and actionable steps for teams to execute
- Building systems, processes, and KPIs to support scalability, efficiency, and accountability
- Driving excellence across fabrication, assembly, and installation workflows
- Partnering with technical leadership to align engineering, production, and delivery timelines
- Establishing forecasting, capacity planning, and resource allocation processes
- Identifying and mitigating operational risks as the company scales
- Supporting hiring, mentoring, and organizational development across operations
- Mentoring and developing operations and production leaders, providing coaching, structure, and guidance to strengthen leadership capability and accountability
- Improving communication between technical, business, and operational teams
- Leading continuous improvement initiatives
- Ensuring quality standards are maintained as production volume and complexity increase
Preferred Experience / Technical Skills
We are most interested in candidates with strong operational leadership experience in complex environments:
- 8–15+ years of experience in operations, manufacturing, or scaling organizations
- Experience in a leadership role (Director, VP, or COO level) within a high-growth or technical environment
- Strong understanding of manufacturing, supply chain, and production workflows
- Experience building and implementing operational systems and processes from early-stage through scale
- Demonstrated ability to manage cross-functional teams and align stakeholders
- Proven experience mentoring and developing managers or team leads in operations or production environments
- Strong financial and operational acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost control
- Experience working in hardware, deep-tech, or engineering-driven organizations is strongly preferred
- Proven ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on execution
Nice to Have / Considered an Asset
- Experience in physics, cryogenics, quantum technology, or highly specialized manufacturing environments
- Familiarity with ERP systems
- Experience scaling a company through rapid growth phases
- Exposure to project-based manufacturing or custom engineering environments
- Background in engineering, physics, or technical disciplines
What Will You Bring
- A systems-oriented mindset with the ability to bring structure to complexity
- Strong leadership presence with the ability to align and motivate teams
- A coaching mindset with the ability to develop emerging leaders into high-performing managers
- The ability to balance accountability with support, setting clear expectations while investing in team growth
- Pragmatism and sound judgment in fast-moving, ambiguous environments
- Accountability and ownership for operational outcomes
- A collaborative approach to working across technical and business teams
- A focus on building sustainable, scalable systems rather than short-term fixes
Our Core Values
- Pursuit of Innovation: We embrace mistakes as stepping stones in our journey of discovery and innovation.
- Built Through Teamwork: Our best solutions and products emerge from collaborative efforts.
- Standard of Quality: We hold ourselves accountable to deliver only the highest quality in everything we do.
- Enjoy Life: We believe in finding daily satisfaction and purpose, balancing work with personal life.
Why Join Us
- Be part of a growth-mindset company that values innovation, teamwork, excellence, and work-life balance.
- Immediate eligibility for comprehensive group benefits including health & dental, paid vacation and paid statutory holidays
- Continuous learning and development opportunities with available funding for personal and professional development.
- Opportunity to work in a supportive environment with a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to your success.
- Relocation assistance is assessed on a case by case situation.
Compensation and Benefits
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience and education
- 100% employer-paid group benefits, including:
- Health and dental
- $750 annual Health Care Spending Account
- Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
- Flexible Paid Time Off policy
- Paid statutory holidays
- Employee-paid life insurance and long-term disability benefits
Location
This position is based at our Edmonton facility located at 9773 45th Ave NW. Edmonton is Alberta’s capital city and one of Canada’s fastest-growing technology and innovation hubs, known for its affordability, education sector, and vibrant cultural scene.
Application Process
If you are ready to take on this role we want to hear from you. Please submit one combined file containing your resume and cover letter. Applications are reviewed as received. Only successful candidates will be contacted.
Accommodations
ZPC is an equal opportunity employer. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Please contact [email protected] for support. We celebrate our inclusive work environment and welcome members of all backgrounds and perspectives to apply.
Safety Note
Please be aware of intermittent high magnetic fields in our facility, which may pose risks to individuals with certain medical implants. Contact us for more information regarding these safety considerations.
Apply now and embark on a journey of professional growth and discovery!
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company events
- Dental care
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Flexible schedule
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- Vision care
Work Location: In person
