RESEARCH ASSISTANT (I) (ENG-ECE)

McMaster University; Hamilton; On-site; CAD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, invites applications for a Short‑Term Research Assistant in the Electrical and Computer Engineering department. The role supports experimental characterization of electric machines in an industry‑related project, involving hands‑on lab work, test equipment operation, and data collection under a faculty supervisor.

The successful candidate will apply graduate‑level engineering knowledge to troubleshoot issues, refine procedures, and contribute to research

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
• Requires 2 years of relevant experience.
• Graduate enrollment is an asset (master’s or PhD).

Responsibilities

• Oversee data collection, entry, verification, management and reporting.
• Use statistical software to analyze data and interpret results.
• Design and maintain databases and forms for data collection and analysis.
• Prepare scientific reports, abstracts, and graphs.
• Assist with data processing, visualization, and preliminary analysis.

Skills

2 years of experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

Job description

Schedule

Monday-Friday, 8:30am‑4:30pm, 35 hours/week

Education Level

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field of study

Career Level

2 years of relevant experience

Anticipated Start Date

September 28, 2026

Job Description

Research Assistant

(ECE, Faulty of Engineering)

(JD00436 )

Ranked among the top engineering schools in Canada and worldwide, the Faculty of Engineering. has a reputation for innovative programs, cutting‑edge research, leading faculty, and aspiring students. Engineering faculty, staff and students at McMaster pursue research and learning in more than 22 research centres, institutes and networks whose interdisciplinary pursuits cross‑departmental and faculty boundaries. Outside the University, we regularly collaborate on research projects with partners in universities, the government and more than 100 companies in Canada and abroad.

About the Department

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering stands as one of the largest within the Faculty of Engineering, offering a comprehensive array of academic options. We provide 11-degree programs and are supported by 40 faculty members, each specializing in key areas such as biomedical technologies, communication technology, systems and networks, electrified and autonomous transportation, electromagnetic and photonics, integrated and embedded systems, microelectronics and VLSI, optimization, learning and control, power electronics and electric machines, and signal, image, and video processing. The department nurtures a vibrant community that supports over 200 graduate students and nearly 400 undergraduate students in their academic and professional pursuits.

About the Position

We are welcoming applications for the Short‑Term position of Research Assistant, reporting to Dr. Babak Nahid‑Mobarakeh. The successful incumbent will support research in the experimental characterization of electric machines in an industry‑related project. This position involves hands on laboratory work, operation of specialized test equipment, and the collection and analysis of experimental data.

The successful candidate plays a key role in advancing the laboratory’s research agenda in electric machines and their control. Working under the supervision of a faculty member and in collaboration with researchers from a local company, the incumbent is responsible for running experimental setups, conducting controlled tests, and ensuring the reliability and repeatability of collected data. This includes configuring instrumentation, validating measurement accuracy, and maintaining detailed records consistent with academic research standards.

The role also requires substantial technical engagement with electric motors, power electronics, sensors, and data acquisition systems. The successful candidate is expected to apply graduate level engineering knowledge to troubleshoot experimental issues, refine test procedures, and contribute to the interpretation of results. The position also supports the development of research outputs, including reports and analyses for presentations.

The workload will be monitored to ensure compliance with established hours, responsibilities, and working conditions. The incumbent will receive training in laboratory safety, equipment operation, and protocols as required.

Job Summary

Responsible for organizing and administering one or more research projects within required deadlines under the direction of a Principal Investigator or project leader.

Purpose & Key Functions

• Oversee the collection, entry, verification, management, analysis, and reporting of data.
• Use statistical software to analyze data and interpret results.
• Design and maintain databases, data collection forms, error checking methods and related programs for efficient collection, analysis, and reporting.
• Modify and reconfigure databases to ensure the optimal storage of data and minimize data entry complexities.
• Troubleshoot moderately complex computer problems.
• Write data management and operations documentation for the project.
• Liaise between the project centre and remote project sites and personnel.
• Conduct structured project participant interviews.
• Ensure that the relevant research methodology is applied and all research material is handled in accordance with established protocols, policies, and procedures.
• Participate in the development of promotional strategies and related materials to encourage participation and support for research projects.
• Develop presentations and present information and training sessions to project personnel and project participants.
• Keep project participants informed of project progress through regular reports and newsletters.
• Gather and compile information and data required for the preparation of scientific papers, abstracts, and graphs.
• Conduct literature searches.
• Oversee the extraction and compilation of data required for reports and disseminate data to research groups and collaborating partners.
• Implement and maintain the research project budget. Create financial projections and make adjustments to the research project budget throughout the fiscal year.
• Exercise appropriate budget controls, monitor, and reconcile accounts.
• Write a variety of letters and memos.
• Participate in research project meetings and propose recommendations for procedure modifications and development in the areas of data management, quality control, and assurance.
• Write, update, and archive data management and quality assurance conventions.
• Respond to inquiries received from project personnel regarding relevant project issues and procedures.

Supervision

• Provide direction to others in how to carry out work tasks.
• Provide orientation and show procedures to others.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field of study.
• Requires 2 years of relevant experience.

Assets

• Enrollment in a graduate program (Master’s or PhD) in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field is considered a strong asset.

Additional Information

This position will be responsible for the following duties, including but not limited to:

• Following electrical and mechanical safety procedures, including high power equipment protocols.
• Maintaining a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory environment.
• Completing required safety training as mandated by McMaster University.
• Configuring and operating motor test benches, including dynamometers, torque sensors, encoders, power analyzers, and cooling systems.
• Mounting motors, align shafts, connect power electronics, and verify mechanical and electrical integrity prior to testing.
• Conducting standardized and project specific tests.
• Configuring DAQ systems, oscilloscopes, current/voltage probes, and temperature sensors.
• Calibrating instrumentation and verify signal quality.
• Collecting, organizing, and storing experimental data.
• Identifying and resolving issues with sensors, wiring, power electronics, and mechanical components.
• Performing routine maintenance on dynamometers, cooling loops, and instrumentation.
• Assisting with incremental improvements to test fixtures and experimental setups.
• Maintaining detailed experimental logs and documentation.
• Assisting with data processing, visualization, and preliminary analysis.
• Contributing to research outputs, including reports and supporting material for presentations.

The successful candidate must demonstrate in-depth understanding and experience with:

• Professionalism when interacting with suppliers, students, and faculty members
• Laboratory equipment, electromechanical systems, or instrumentation
• Foundational knowledge of electric motors (SRM, PMSM, IM) and power electronics
• Dynamometer testing or motor characterization
• Academic research environments
• MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Adobe Acrobat

The successful candidate must also have and/or demonstrate:

• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Excellent attention to detail with a high level of accuracy
• Commitment to safe laboratory practices and compliance with McMaster University policies
• Ability to read wiring diagrams, schematics, and mechanical drawings.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines
• Excellent problem solving and analytical skills
• Excellent communication (verbal and written) skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships at work
• Ability to respond creatively to resolve issues and maintain workflow
• Ability to take initiative and follow through, and willing to ask for help when needed
• Ability to work independently and collaborate within a team environment
• A high degree of integrity and ability to handle confidential information

Employment Equity Statement

McMaster University is located on the traditional territories of the Haudenosaunee and Mississauga Nations and within the lands protected by the “Dish With One Spoon” wampum agreement.

The diversity of our workforce is at the core of our innovation and creativity and strengthens our research and teaching excellence. In keeping with its Statement on Building an Inclusive Community with a Shared Purpose, McMaster University strives to embody the values of respect, collaboration and diversity, and has a strong commitment to employment equity.

The University seeks qualified candidates who share our commitment to equity and inclusion, who will contribute to the diversification of ideas and perspectives, and especially welcomes applications from indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) peoples, members of racialized communities, persons with disabilities, women, and persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.

As part of McMaster’s commitment, all applicants are invited to complete a confidential Applicant Diversity Survey through the online application submission process. The Survey questionnaire requests voluntary self‑identification in relation to equity‑seeking groups that have historically faced and continue to face barriers in employment. Please refer to the Applicant Diversity Survey - Statement of Collection for additional information.

Job applicants requiring accommodation to participate in the hiring process should contact:

To ensure an ongoing and vibrant University community that meets the needs of our students, staff and faculty and supports the University mission, ability to work on‑site continues to be a requirement for most University positions. The University is supportive of exploring flexible work arrangements that effectively balance operational needs and employee interests.

Interview Experience

At McMaster University, we believe in a comprehensive and inclusive interview process. Our interview methods encompass a variety of approaches that allow our hiring teams to provide a flexible and accessible experience for engaging with our candidates. Throughout your recruitment process at McMaster, you may be requested to participate in a variety of formats, that may include in‑person, virtual or recorded interviews. If you have any questions as you move through the hiring process, please reach out to [e-mail] or the HR contact associated with your position of interest.

AI Statement

McMaster and its third‑party partners may use AI tools to screen, assess, or select applicants during the hiring process. Please note that currently our recruitment platform does not use AI nor is it part of our current recommended recruitment process.