Electrical Design Specialist

**Job Title**: Electrical Design Specialist

**Position Type**: Full Time

**Location**: Victoria (onsite)

**Hours**: 35

**Start Date**: April 1, 2025

**End Date**: March 31, 2026

**Salary**: $65,000-$75,000* (*with potential for new contract at end of term)

**Reports to**:Associate Director of Technology Development and Operations

**Closing Date**: March 16, 2025

Please note: Applications that don’t include a cover letter, resume and portfolio will not be considered for an interview.

**Who are we?**

Welcome to CanAssist, where innovation meets impact

Since 2008, we have been transforming the lives of individuals with cognitive and physical barriers. Our technologies and programs have earned recognition for their positive impact on thousands facing challenging conditions. At CanAssist, our diverse multidisciplinary expertise includes product design, development, policy, applied research, supported employment, and partnership development. Beyond our expertise, we are a passionate community committed to creating a world where everyone can thrive and contribute.

**What sets us apart?**

Innovative Solutions: CanAssist, a university-based organization, pioneers technologies, programs, and services to enhance the quality of life for individuals with a broad range of physical and cognitive challenges across the age spectrum. Our programs and services address unmet needs, promoting independence, inclusion, and well-being.

Collaborative Spirit: We are a respected team that collaborates with UVic researchers, students, and external partners, fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment.

**Our vision**

At CanAssist, we envision a society where everyone has equal opportunities to participate, contribute, and achieve their full potential.

Join our team as an Electrical Design Specialist

The Electrical Design Specialist is responsible for the development of assistive technologies aimed at enhancing the independence of individuals with disabilities.

This role encompasses the entire project lifecycle, including research of existing technologies, conceptualization, design, prototyping, testing, fabrication and final delivery of customized solutions. The specialist will manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely and budget-compliant delivery, while maintaining comprehensive documentation to support knowledge transfer and reproduction of technologies.

Successful applicants will have a passion for technology and making a societal impact, be quick learners, and be able to demonstrate relevant previous work experience in electronics product design and fabrication.

**Your responsibilities**

Project Management
- Lead and manage multiple concurrent projects from ideation to completion, adhering to defined scopes, budgets, and timelines.
- Assess potential project ideas, analyze client needs, and determine project requirements, feasibility, and approach.
- Conduct client visits and deliveries, which may involve moderate travel.
- Collaborate with clients' healthcare teams (e.g., occupational therapists, physical therapists) to achieve project objectives.
- Train clients in the use of new technologies and ensure devices meet their specific needs.

Design and Development:

- Conduct background research on existing technologies and conceptualize innovative solutions.
- Design, prototype, and test new technologies, focusing on circuit design, embedded firmware development, and PCB manufacturing assemblies.
- Utilize 3D CAD/CAM/PCB software to create working drawings and CNC code for manufacturing and small product runs.
- Plan and execute manufacturing and fabrication processes, managing part purchases and maintaining Bills of Materials (BOMs).

Documentation and Compliance:

- Create detailed user manuals and maintain up-to-date budget and time records.
- Organize and archive part and drawing files, recording important calculations and data related to projects.
- Ensure designs comply with relevant electrical codes, regulations, and engineering principles.

Team Leadership and Mentorship:

- Assist in the hiring processes of Co-op students and provide technical guidance and training.
- Supervise the work of 1-2 Co-op students, fostering development in technical abilities, critical thinking, problem-solving, and project management.
- Occasionally function as project lead on projects requiring multiple staff or Co-op involvement.

Community Engagement:

- Maintain effective relationships with all members of the team, providing ongoing, timely, and clear communication.
- Deliver tours, presentations, and informational sessions to prospective donors, students, and other stakeholders.
- Maintain the Light Assembly Room and complete additional duties as assigned.

**Required qualifications and experience**
- Undergraduate degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering, or a Technologist diploma with relevant experience.
- Class 5 driver's license
- The ability to travel to conduct offsite visits
- Exc