Summer Student - Research Project Assistant

SIIT; Saskatoon; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking institution as a Research Project Assistant for the summer! This role offers a unique chance to engage in hands-on work with MRI technology, contributing to innovative healthcare solutions while empowering Indigenous communities. You'll gain valuable experience in problem-solving, teamwork, and communication while working under the guidance of experienced professionals. This position is perfect for students passionate about STEM and eager to make a meaningful impact. If you're ready to build your career and contribute to technological advancements, this opportunity is for you!

Qualifications

• Ability to perform physical activities and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Knowledge of First Nations culture and traditions is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the construction and assembly of MRI components.
• Maintain a clean workspace and manage inventory of tools.

Skills

Effective Communication

Flexibility & Adaptability

Relationship Building

Attention to Detail

Teamwork

Initiative

Education

Currently enrolled in SIIT AME program

Tools

Microsoft Office applications

Sheet metal tools

Job description

Established in 1976, the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT) is a First Nation governed post-secondary institution. Recognized under provincial legislation, the Institute has been conferred authority to grant certificates and diplomas. SIIT welcomes over 2400 students into our urban and community programs annually as well as serving over 6000 clients through our ten Career Centres across the province. The Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies is playing a significant role in Saskatchewan's economic future. You can contribute to that success while building your career.

Nature and Scope

The Research Project Assistant - Summer Student position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of compact, gradient-free MRI prototypes, a project that stands at the intersection of advanced healthcare technology and community empowerment. This role is ideal for students passionate about STEM, eager to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges, and interested in contributing to meaningful technological advancements, particularly within Indigenous and northern Canadian communities. As an employee of SIIT, this position will positively promote and create an environment that demonstrates SIIT's vision, mission, and mandate.

General Accountability

The Research Project Assistant - Summer Student will have the opportunity to be involved in hands-on work in the construction and assembly of MRI components, contributing to the development of a prototype that aligns with the project's innovative goals. This includes engaging in problem-solving, prototype testing, and iterative design processes. Working out of SIIT's AME program facility, the Research Project Assistant - Summer Student will have an opportunity to improve their teamwork and communication skills, as well as their administrative skills and leadership capabilities. Reporting to the MRI Developer and AME Program Head, the incumbent provides support within the AME/Portable MRI Research program. This position provides support as required and includes the following broad range of accountabilities:

Specific Accountabilities

• Working knowledge of aircraft sheet metal fabrication and manufacturing techniques.
• Ability to safely use a variety of fabrication and assembly tools and equipment.
• Move, deliver, assemble and record inventory records of tools and supplies associated with the AME/MRI program.
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace, ensuring that fabrication activities do not compromise safety or the integrity of the MRI prototype.
• Maintain inventory of tools and supplies, providing repairs, service, and lubricating tools and equipment as required.
• Perform minor administrative functions as required.
• Provide additional support on special projects and department initiatives as required.

There may be some summer student positions that must meet the following criteria:

• First Nations and Inuit secondary and post-secondary students aged 15 to 30 inclusive.
• Ordinarily resident on reserve or in recognized communities or on community lands.
• Legally entitled to work in Canada.
• Registered as students during the preceding academic year and who intend to return to studies in the next academic year.

Position Requirements: Ability to perform physical activities and lifting up to 50 pounds. A valid driver's licence is required as there is potential for travel to remote/other SIIT locations. Knowledge of First Nations culture and traditions is considered an asset. Currently enrolled in the SIIT AME program year 1 or 2 is an asset. Prior experience with aircraft sheet metal and working with shop sheet metal tools is an asset (for example: a metal shear, drills, sheet metal breaks). Experience with Microsoft Office applications is an asset.

As this position is considered safety-sensitive, the incumbent will be subject to testing as per SIIT's Alcohol and Substances policy.

Required Competencies: Effective Communication, Flexible & Adaptable, Relationship Building, Results Oriented, Attention to Detail, Initiative, Client Focus, Teamwork.

This work term is from May 1, 2025 to August 29, 2025.