Applied Research Technician II

Red-Deer-Polytechnic-1; Red Deer; On-site; CAD 21,000 - 34,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

15% in lieu of vacation & holidays

Job summary

Red Deer Polytechnic is seeking a motivated student for a part-time role to collaborate with CIM-TAC and EIC on manufacturing technology and renewable energy projects. You will help design, analyze, and test electrical, electronic, and control systems, and assist with firmware development on microcontrollers and SBCs.

You will gain hands-on experience with real-world projects, mentorship from experts, and a competitive compensation package while working on-site in Central Alberta.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an electrical engineering, electronics, control systems, automation, or related program.
• Proven strong work ethic and productivity in independent or team settings.
• Ability to work in a team and communicate effectively.

Responsibilities

• Assist design, analysis, and optimization of electrical, electronic, and control systems for electromechanical processes.
• Support development, integration, and testing of research prototypes, including embedded systems.
• Contribute to firmware development and system testing on microcontrollers and SBCs.
• Assist with electrical system integration, schematic interpretation, wiring, soldering, and troubleshooting.
• Conduct experimental testing, data collection, and technical reporting.

Skills

Electrical engineering basics

Team collaboration

Strong work ethic

Embedded systems knowledge

Firmware/embedded software

Hands-on lab work

Education

Enrollment in electrical engineering/electronics/control systems/automation program

Tools

Multimeters

Oscilloscopes

Soldering

Job description

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and innovative student for a part‑time position. You will have the opportunity to work closely with experts at CIM-TAC and EIC on various projects aimed at pushing the boundaries of innovation in manufacturing technology and renewable energy systems.

Position Responsibilities

• Assist in the design, analysis, and optimization of electrical, electronic, and control systems for electromechanical processes, automation, and energy applications.
• Support the development, integration, and testing of research prototypes, including embedded systems and automated platforms, through hands‑on work with lab equipment and workshops
• Contribute to firmware development and system testing using microcontroller and single-board computer (SBC) platforms.
• Assist with electrical system integration tasks including interpretation of electrical schematics, basic wiring, soldering, and troubleshooting hardware.
• Conduct experimental testing, data collection, and technical reporting to support engineering analysis and applied research decision making.
• Collaborate with researchers, engineers, technologists, and students on multidisciplinary applied research projects
• Actively participate in team meetings, project reviews, brainstorming sessions, and technical activities.

Opportunities you will have by securing this position:

• Hands‑on experience working on real‑world projects alongside industry experts.
• Opportunity to contribute to research and innovation initiatives.
• Mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals in the field.
• Competitive compensation package.

Required Qualifications

• Current enrollment in a program relevant to electrical engineering, electronics, control systems, automation, or a closely related discipline, aligned with the position responsibilities section.
• Proven strong work ethic, attendance record and productivity in an independent work environment demonstrated through previous employment, education, or volunteer experience.
• Proven ability to work within a team and communicate positively supporting new and different ideas.
• Ability to complete work duties such as sitting, standing, and/ light physical effort over modest periods of time, with some opportunity for relief and task variety. The work may involve movement of average weight material with periodic requirements to lift heavier objects.

Preferred Qualifications

• Consideration will be given to all students enrolled at RDP seeking part‑time opportunity who have demonstrated strength in electrical systems, electronics, control, or automation.
• Demonstrated knowledge or hands‑on experience in two or more of the following areas:
  • Firmware or embedded software development using C, C++, and/or Python
  • Experience with ESP32, Arduino, and/or Raspberry Pi platforms
  • Exposure to PLC programming, including ladder logic
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical and pneumatic schematics
  • Experience with PCB design / CAD software
  • Practical laboratory skills including use of multimeters, oscilloscopes, power supplies, and soldering equipment
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment.
• Passion for innovation and eagerness to learn about emerging technologies in manufacturing and renewable energy sectors.
• Previous participation in research projects, applied research initiatives, hackathons, engineering competitions, or industry-sponsored projects.

Benefits and Compensation Information

An additional 15% of the hourly rate in lieu of vacation, statutory holidays and benefits.

Desired Start Date

November 1, 2026

Position End Date (if term‑certain)

TBA (3 months or 4 months)

Hours of work

8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, 10 hours per week

Note to Applicant

Red Deer Polytechnic fosters an inclusive learning and working environment where everyone can bring their full selves and share their unique talents. We are committed to being responsive to the evolving needs and expectations of our diverse community.

To enrich the intellectual, economic, cultural, and social development of Central Alberta, we value the contributions of individuals with diverse perspectives and experiences. We encourage applications from Indigenous persons, Black and racialized persons, women, persons with disabilities, individuals of all sexual orientations, and persons of any gender identity orexpression.

Red Deer Polytechnic will provide job applicants with accommodations in accordance with the Alberta Human Rights Code. To request an accommodation, please contact [e-mail].

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

Special Instructions to Applicants

• This position is conditionally funded and does not qualify for conversion under the AUPE Collective Agreement.
• This is an in‑person position. The successful candidate will be required to work on‑site at our location during scheduled working hours.