Technical Research Specialist

Competition 1475

While this position welcomes applications from the public, please note that preference will be given to current employees at the University of Alberta. Please log in to verify your internal candidate status.

This position is a part of the Association of the Academic Staff of the University of Alberta (AASUA).

In accordance with the Trust/Research Academic Staff Agreement, this position offers a comprehensive benefits package found on our Benefits Overview page and annual salary range of $61,360 to $74,785. This position has an approximate appointment of 2 years with the possibility of extension.

Location - This role is in-person at North Campus Edmonton.

Working at the University of Alberta

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The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people — from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

Position 

The  Specialist at the University of Alberta Power Electronics Lab (uAPEL) will play a crucial role in supporting both research and development activities. This position encompasses a blend of research-oriented tasks and hands-on engineering work, including preparing test setups, assisting in electrical and mechanical design and implementation, coding and testing embedded firmware, assisting in background research and literature review, and maintaining lab safety protocols. Operating within the collaborative environment of uAPEL, the Technical Research Specialist will contribute to the advancement of cutting-edge power electronics technologies and ensure the smooth operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment and experiments. The primary contribution to uAPEL is facilitating innovative research and development while ensuring efficient and safe lab operations.

Duties 

1) Design and R&D Support: Conduct research on power electronics technologies and standards; assist with electrical/mechanical design using CAD tools (Altium, Solidworks, Fusion 360); collaborate on experimental setups; aid in firmware coding for embedded processors (TI C2000 DSPs, STM); create schematics and layouts; integrate software and hardware for verification.

2) Test Setup, Maintenance, and Lab Safety: Organize and maintain test setups; ensure equipment availability and functionality; perform troubleshooting, routine maintenance, and calibration; implement lab safety protocols, conduct inspections, and ensure compliance.

3) Procurement and Inventory Management: Order components, manage inventory, maintain stock levels, and handle procurement documentation; ensure all materials meet project specifications.

4) Software and Mechanical Development: Develop, test, and debug embedded software; implement communication protocols (SPI, SCI, UART, I2C); design mechanical parts using CAD software; operate CNC and laser machines for parts fabrication and assembly.

5) Documentation and Technical Support: Prepare detailed documentation for hardware/software projects, including specs, test reports, and procedures; provide technical assistance and troubleshoot equipment; support lab organization and record-keeping.

Qualifications

1) Education: Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related field.

2) Technical Skills (refer to duties): Proficient in CAD software (Altium Designer, Solidworks, Fusion 360) for electrical/mechanical design; firmware development (TI C2000 DSPs, STM), including communication protocols (SPI, UART, I2C); experienced in hardware design, component selection, PCB soldering (through-hole, SMD), testing, and debugging; capable of mechanical modeling and operating CNC, laser cutters, and other machines.

3) Analytical and Conceptual Skills: Strong in R&D tasks like literature reviews, competitor analysis, and proof of concept development; excellent problem-solving skills for troubleshooting experimental, equipment, and software issues.

4) Practical Procedures: Knowledgeable in lab safety protocols, capable of conducting safety inspections and ensuring compliance; adept at preparing detailed documentation such as specifications, project plans, test reports, and assembly procedures.

5) Interpersonal and Organizational Skills: Effective communicator for collaboration with researchers, students, and partners; strong organizational skills for managing inventory, maintaining records, and organizing lab space; adaptable to changing priorities in a dynamic research environment.