Job Description

Staff - Union
Job Category CUPE 116
Job Profile CUPE 116 Salaried - Research Assistant /Technician 2
Job Title Research Technician
Department Research Group | Manufacturing Automation Laboratory | Department Mechanical Engineering | Faculty of Applied Science
Compensation Range $4,426.00 - $4,845.00 CAD Monthly
Posting End Date February 21, 2026
Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.
Job End Date September 4, 2026
At UBC, we believe that attracting and sustaining a diverse workforce is key to the successful pursuit of excellence in research, innovation, and learning for all faculty, staff and students. Our commitment to employment equity helps achieve inclusion and fairness, brings rich diversity to UBC as a workplace, and creates the necessary conditions for a rewarding career.
Job Summary
The Research Technician is responsible for programing and operating CNC machining centers, Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM) and Laser Additive Machine. The technician will conduct machining tests with graduate students, produce parts for research laboratories, maintain the machines, and learn and operate machine tool measurement instruments.
Organizational Status
Reports to Dr. Yusuf Altintas. This position works closely with research faculty and graduate students.
Work Performed
Facilitates experimental cutting tests by setting up CNC machine tools and ensuring equipment readiness for graduate research projects. This includes performing basic NC part programming and the preparation of tools and tool holders.
Operates CNC Laser Additive Manufacturing equipment to produce parts. Utilizing standardized protocols, monitors the fabrication process to ensure parts meet research specifications.
Utilizes CMM to perform high-precision measurements and verify the dimensional accuracy of fabricated components. Records and analyzes measurement data to ensure adherence to technical requirements.
Works closely with faculty members and graduate students to support ongoing research initiatives.
Operates, maintains, and troubleshoots standard laboratory and machining equipment. May assist in the orientation of students or new employees regarding the safe operation of CNC and measurement systems.
Operates, maintains, and troubleshoots standard laboratory and machining equipment. May assist in the orientation of students or new employees regarding the safe operation of CNC and measurement systems.
Consequence of Error/Judgement
The Research Technician will perform work as discussed with the supervisors while exercising judgment in establishing priorities and carrying out tasks to completion. New or unusual problems are discussed with the supervisor.
Supervision Received
The Research Technician works under direct supervision in accordance with detailed oral or written instructions. The Research Technician receives instructions during orientation and on subsequent new assignments or changes in procedures.
Supervision Given
None.
Minimum Qualifications
High school graduation, some additional training in a related field and a minimum two years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one's own
- Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one's own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion
Preferred Qualifications
5 years of related experience or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
Graduation from a technical college or institute or completion of a recognized apprenticeship
Completed courses in CNC machining and CAM from a recognized technical college, institution or via factory training; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Ability and desire to assist with the operation of the student shop.
Strong interpersonal and communications skills.
Ability to apply technical knowledge to resolve complex design and operational problems.

Skills Required