Industrial Research (Engineer) Associate

Red-Deer-Polytechnic-1; Red Deer; On-site; CAD 52,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Red Deer Polytechnic's Energy Innovation Centre seeks an entry-level Industrial Research Associate to evaluate, research, and develop new ideas and prototypes for energy solutions. You will work with engineers, technologists and partners on power systems and energy projects.

The role requires APEGA registration as EIT or P.Eng, plus enthusiasm for applied research, problem solving, and collaboration. On-site work and a 8:30–4:30 schedule are expected.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in electrical engineering or related field focusing on energy/power systems.
• Minimum of 1 year of electrical engineering experience.
• Registered with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA) as Engineer in Training (E.I.T.) or Professional Engineer (P.Eng.).
• Experience with microcontrollers, programming, power system analysis and design, renewable energy sizing and design.
• Experience with power system modeling, simulation, and analysis tools (CMYEModels, ETAP, DIgSILENT, PowerFactory, PSCAD, MATLAB/Simulink).
• Exposure to emerging energy trends such as AI in energy, green hydrogen, Internet of Things, digital manufacturing.
• Ability to independently perform analytical and experimental research and communicate progress.

Responsibilities

• Provide engineering and research network advice on an ad-hoc basis or as part of an applied research project with the team.
• Support technical requirements on external client projects and internal R&D projects, delivering per scope.
• Develop innovative solutions considering feasibility, environmental impact and safety.
• Apply IoT, ML and data analysis to energy innovation projects as applicable.
• Develop validation strategies for designs using standard and non-standard testing methods.
• Apply industrial standards and certifications to applied research projects.
• Collaborate with engineers, technologists, faculty, managers, research partners, and admin staff.
• Estimate and establish cost parameters and budgets for design.
• Modify existing products or processes to improve efficiency and performance.
• Maintain knowledge through workshops, publications, networks and societies.

Skills

Analytical skills

Written and oral communication

Time management

Problem solving

Education

Master’s degree in electrical engineering or related field

Tools

CMYEModels

ETAP

DIgSILENT

PowerFactory

PSCAD

MATLAB/Simulink

Job description

Position Summary

The Industrial Research Associate is an entry-level engineering position who will be responsible for evaluating, researching and developing new ideas and prototypes to support our client needs. The incumbent must be registered with APEGA as an Engineer in Training or a Professional Engineer. In this dynamic, fast paced and applied research environment, the incumbent will be troubleshooting and problem-solving power systems, designs, and assembly. The ideal candidate enjoys solving challenging problems and working with other members in Applied Research and the RDP team as well as the companies we serve.

The Industrial Research Associate is detail-oriented, results-driven, and organized. The incumbent will create engineering designs, collaborate with key suppliers, and work with the team’s technical staff in the deployment of energy solutions. The Industrial Research Associate may also be involved in projects to improve the performance and efficiency of existing systems and products.

The Energy Innovation Centre (EIC) at Red Deer Polytechnic was originally established in 2019 as the Alternative Energy Lab (AEL). The purpose of this lab was to operate as a physical and virtual research hub for the community. The primary objective is to collect, analyze, and validate emerging clean technologies, catering to businesses, municipalities, post-secondary institutions, and individuals.

The AEL developed into EIC, which aims to promote the adoption of clean technologies in Central Alberta and beyond. By conducting research and providing reliable data, EIC facilitates the identification and validation of clean technologies that have the potential to contribute to a sustainable energy future. By acting as a neutral and trusted applied research resource, the Centre facilitates the collaboration and knowledge sharing to drive innovation and ultimately increase adoption of clean technologies.

Position Responsibilities

Expert Advice

• Provide engineering and research network advice on an ad-hoc basis or as part of an applied research project with the team.

Technology Development

• Support technical requirements on both external customer projects and internal research and development projects, executing as per the scope and deliverables.
• Develop solutions for client-directed applied research considering implementation of innovative technologies in a cost-effective manner, including design feasibility, environmental impact and safety.
• Apply concepts of internet of things, machine learning and data analysis, process automation to energy innovation projects as applicable.
• Develop a validation strategy for designs using both standard and non-standard testing methods.
• Apply industrial standards and certification to applied research projects.
• Collaborate with engineers, technologists, faculty, managers, research partners, business and administrative team.
• Estimate and establish cost parameters and budgets for design.
• Modify existing products or processes to increase efficiency or improve performance.
• Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies.

Business Development

• Ensure projects are completed on time and within budget and maintain strong relationships with customers for future business growth.
• Share project knowledge through workshops, internal presentations, or partner-facing sessions.
• Prepare proposals, presentations, and demonstrations for clients, collaborators, and funding opportunities.
• Develop and maintain partner relationships through meetings, follow-ups, and professional communication.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in electrical engineering or related field, with a focus on energy, power systems, simulation or related field.
• Minimum of 1 (one) years of experience in electrical engineering or similar role.
• Registered with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA), as Engineer in Training (E.I.T.) or Professional Engineer (P.Eng.).
• Experience with microcontrollers, programming, power system analysis and design, renewable energy sizing and design.
• Experience with power system modeling, simulation, and analysis tools (e.g., CMYEModels,ETAP, DIgSILENT, PowerFactory,PSCAD,MATLAB/Simulink).
• Exposure to emerging energy trends, such as artificial intelligence in the energy sector, green hydrogen energy, Internet of Things, digital manufacturing, additive manufacturing.
• Demonstrated ability to independently perform analytical and experimental research work.
• Ability to convey progress through written reports and oral presentations.
• Proficient in analytical, organizational and time management skills to complete work with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Commercial awareness.
• Ability to integrate creativity into solving a variety of problems ranging in complexity.
• Proficient in computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite.

Benefits and Compensation Information

Exempt Terms and Conditions allow an 8% of the hourly rate in lieu of vacation or the option of vacation leave. Eligibility to access benefits is dependent upon the Exempt Terms and Conditions.

Desired Start Date

November 2, 2026

Position End Date (if term-certain)

June 30, 2027

Hours of work

8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, 35 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].

Special Instructions to Applicants

This is an in-person position. The successful candidate will be required to work on-site at our location during scheduled working hours.