Job Description

Position Information

Position Title

Industrial Research Associate - Materials Engineering

Position Summary

The Centre for Innovation in Manufacturing-Technology Access Centre (CIM-TAC) is Red Deer Polytechnic's first nationally recognized research Centre. CIM-TAC creates capacity in advanced design, design simulation, prototyping, and prototype testing to further the competitiveness of Alberta's manufacturing industry by providing a regionally unique, affordable alternative to in-house research and development. Through customized support that builds on Red Deer Polytechnic's (RDP) established Center for Innovation in Manufacturing (CIM), this Technology Access Centre (TAC) helps innovators design, build, and test their creative solutions to advance their company's profitability and capability. Our clients recognize CIM experts for their diverse skill sets, capabilities, and responsiveness to unique challenges associated with manufacturing. Given this track record of innovation and success, the CIM-TAC at ROP is destined to grow the success of even more of Alberta's innovative manufacturers.


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. In this dynamic, fast paced and applied research environment, the incumbent will be troubleshooting and problem-solving products, designs, and manufacturing processes. The ideal candidate enjoys solving challenging problems and working with both the CIM-TAC and RDP team and 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 Manufacturing Design Engineer in the creation arid fabrication of prototypes. The Industrial Research Associate may also be involved in projects to improve the performance and efficiency of existing systems and products.

Position Responsibilities

Technical & Research:Designing and executing structured experiments Characterizing materials using techniques like SEM, TGA, DSC, and rheometry Operating and troubleshooting3D printers (FDM, OED, etc.) Understanding composite material behavior and processing Analyzing mechanical, thermal, and rheological data
Computational & Analytical:Performing data analysis using Python, MATLAB, or Excel Visualizing experimental results for interpretation and reporting Applying image analysis techniques for print quality or defect detection Gaining exposure to machine learning for process optimization
Project & Lab Management:Following lab safety protocols and chemical handling procedures Maintaining detailed lab notebooks and experimental records Managing time, materials, and equipment efficiently Coordinating tasks across multiple project streams
Communication & Collaboration:Writing technical reports, SOPs, and documentation Presenting findings to internal teams or external partners Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams (engineers, chemists, data scientists) Participating in meetings, workshops, or conferences

Required Qualifications

Master's degree in materials engineering or related field, with a focus on additive manufacturing, materials processing design, product design, industrial design, or related field Understanding of carbon fibre composites, bitumen chemistry, and thermoset/thermoplastic behavior Experience with material characterization techniques and routine materials testing Hands-on experience with FOM,SLA, or composite 3D printing systems Familiarity with print parameter tuning, slicer software, and post-processing Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, or R for analyzing experimental data Ability to interpret mechanical testing, thermal profiles, and print quality metrics Ability to plan and execute structured experiments, including controls and replicates Documentation and reporting of results for reproducibility

Preferred Qualifications

Salary or Hourly?

Hourly

Salary

$40.60 - $49.34

Benefits and Compensation Information

Exempt Terms and Conditions allow an 8% of the hourly rate in lieu of vacation and benefits

About Red Deer Polytechnic

Focused on advancing the economic and social priorities of Alberta,

Red Deer Polytechnic

(RDP) provides more than 80 industry-relevant programs within a breadth of credentials to approximately 6,300 credit and apprenticeship students and 3,400+ learners with Continuing Education programming. With modern teaching and learning spaces, and state-of-the-art research and innovation centres in advanced manufacturing and energy innovation, the Polytechnic provides applied research opportunities, leadership in the social, economic, and cultural development of Alberta, and myriad lifelong learning opportunities.

Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) is more than a post-secondary institution. It is a community of highly dedicated and skilled faculty, staff, learners, and partners who are making a positive impact on the world around us. Unbound by tradition, we are focused on producing the talent, solutions, and environments needed for Alberta's economy and society to thrive.

Red Deer Polytechnic's main campus is located on Treaty 7, Treaty 6 and Metis ancestral lands. This is where we will strive to honour and transform our relationships with one another.

Whatever brings you to Red Deer Polytechnic, we are glad you are here. And we look forward to having you as a valued member of our

polytechnic community

.

Posting Detail Information

Competition Number

2025-E-020

Employment Type

Term-Certain Part-Time

Number of Vacancies

1

Desired Start Date

11/03/2025

Position End Date (if term-certain)

05/01/2026

FTE

Hours of Work

Flexible Schedule

Open Date

08/07/2025

Close Date

Open Until Filled

Yes

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 or expression.

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

Peopleandculture@rdpolytech.ca

.

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

Special Instructions to Applicants

Required Documents

Cover Letter

Resume

Optional Documents