Job Description

Civil Engineering Research Technician




About Queen's University

Queen's University is the Canadian research intensive university with a transformative student learning experience. Here the employment experience is as diverse as it is interesting. We have opportunities in multiple areas of globally recognized research, faculty administration, engineering & construction, athletics & recreation, power generation, corporate shared services, and many more.


We are committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcome applications from individuals from equity seeking groups such as women, racialized/visible minorities, Indigenous/Aboriginal peoples, persons with a disability, persons who identify in the LGBTQ+ community and others who reflect the diversity of Canadian society.


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Job Summary

Reporting to the Principal Investigator(s), the Civil Engineering Research Technician is responsible for facilitating research projects in Climate Adaptive infraStructure Testing and Longevity Evaluation (CASTLE) Innovation Cluster laboratory. The new CASTLE facility consists of a geotechnical centrifuge, an ultra-large triaxial testing apparatus, and a buried pipeline test chamber. The Civil Engineering Research Technician assists the researchers by employing their expertise in planning, designing, fabricating, commissioning, operating, and maintaining various testing facilities and equipment. The position will involve specimen preparation for advanced laboratory testing in an accelerated gravity field, through the CASTLE centrifuge, and operation of the ultra-large triaxial soil strength testing machine.



The Civil Engineering Research Technician assists with the design of tests and helps implement experimental protocols under guidance of the principal investigator (PIs), and works with graduate students to achieve this. The incumbent prepares test specimens, performs maintenance, works with hazardous materials and equipment; trains lab users in safety and equipment operation; uses computers for data entry, processing, and presentation of test reports; ensures compliance with safety procedures; and liaises with various internal and external stakeholders (e.g. staff, faculty, students, outside agencies, etc.).

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

- Operates and maintains the CASTLE centrifuge and triaxial facilities.


- Construction of soil models and specimens for use in the centrifuge and triaxial facilities, following QA/QC protocols and PI instruction.


- Supports research testing, in collaboration with the graduate students and under the guidance of the PI(s).


- Participates in scientific testing using a variety of testing machines and collects data via instrumentation and computer data acquisition equipment.


- Assists with design and fabrication of equipment and apparatus used in research testing.


- Assists with the maintenance, troubleshooting, and development of various electronic and fiber optic sensors, with support from PI(s).


- Collaborates in experiment design and optimization under the guidance of the PI(s), using independent judgement and their experience to adapt procedures to meet the needs of the project.


- Participates in special projects such as design and implementation of new research facilities as well as design and implementation of experimental prototypes.


- Assists with coordination of projects and activities required of the lab team members.


- Provides work direction pertaining to general laboratory operations including ensuring all lab users adhere to safety regulations and standard operating procedures. Ensures the proper safety equipment and supplies are on-hand and the laboratory activities are performed in a safe manner.


- Performs maintenance and calibrations on electronic, hydraulic, and control systems associated with the centrifuge and triaxial facilities.


- Trains students, post-docs, faculty, and technical staff on the safe use of lab equipment.


- Researches and recommends suppliers for the purchase of testing equipment, instrumentation, and supplies.


- Assists with test specimen fabrication, installation, instrumentation and testing.


- Participates in planning and progress meetings with researchers and other technical staff.


- Assists with and contributes to written testing reports.


- Operates and trains users on crane, hoist and material handling equipment.


- Ensures that laboratories are adequately stocked (e.g. test specimens, supplies, etc.).


- Undertakes other duties in support of the unit or department.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

- Two-year post-secondary diploma in Geotechnical / Geological or Civil Engineering Technology. Instrumentation technology and/or combined with specialized knowledge and skills acquired through previous work experience considered an asset. Knowledge of electronic circuits and PLC systems considered to be an asset.


- Familiarity with the Ontario Health and Safety Act for Construction Operations and Industrial Establishments.


- Knowledge of university structure, policies and procedures considered to be an asset.


- Consideration may be given to an equivalent combination of education and experience.

SPECIAL SKILLS:

- Planning and organizing skills for developing and implementing operating procedures for testing systems used in the Civil Engineering laboratories.


- Problem solving related to equipment design, repair and maintenance, and for development of specialized testing procedures.


- Interpersonal communication (verbal and written) skills to collaborate with a diverse audience.


- Organizing a varied work schedule where priorities change regularly.


- Excellent writing, editing, grammar and proofreading skills with strong attention to detail and accuracy.


- Ability to use and apply calibrating instrumentation and equipment.


- Ability to be a competent and proficient operator of construction equipment (Eg. excavator, skid-steer loader, compactor, telescopic forklift, aerial work platform), would be an asset.


- On the job training will be provided for certification to operate overhead gantry crane and forklift. Prior training on these equipment will be considered an asset.


- Ability to train and instruct others in lab practice and test methods and techniques.

DECISION MAKING:

- Determines needs and plans priorities in order to meet deadlines and deliverables.


- Determines maintenance and calibration required on research testing equipment.


- Maintains lab equipment and determine which equipment needs to be repaired, replaced or acquired.


- Resolves problems as they arise specifically when encountering an unexpected problem while testing or maintaining equipment and knows when to report on these actions to the Department Manager.


- Adapts protocols and procedures to solve research problems, consulting with the PI as appropriate.


- Makes recommendations and decisions on supplier or manufacturer selection.


- Determines best method to gather information and report to PI.


- Prioritizes time and resources to coordinate workflow on projects.


- Determines appropriate training for lab users.




Employment Equity and Accessibility Statement

The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Queen's is strongly committed to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace and encourages applications from Black, racialized persons, Indigenous people, women, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQI+ persons. In accordance with Canadian Immigration requirements, priority will be given to those who are legally eligible to work in Canada.


The University provides support in its recruitment processes to all applicants who require accommodation due to a protected ground under the Ontario Human Rights Code, including those with disabilities. Candidates requiring accommodation during the recruitment process are asked to contact Human Resources at hradmin@queensu.ca.

Skills

Reference

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