Astroparticle Physics Engineer

This position is part of the Association of the Academic Staff of the University of Alberta (AASUA).

In accordance with the Trust/Research Academic Staff Agreement, this position has a comprehensive benefits package and an annual salary range of $76,135 - $104,709. This position has an initial appointment of one year.

Location - This position is based at North Campus, Edmonton, with required travel to partner sites including SNOLAB in Sudbury and other collaborator or supplier locations.

Position Summary

The Astroparticle Physics Engineer supports the design, construction, and commissioning of large-scale, highly complex instruments used in astroparticle physics experiments—such as detectors for galactic dark matter and astrophysical neutrinos.

Based in the Department of Physics (Faculty of Science, College of Natural and Applied Sciences), this role is part of the astroparticle physics research group and is funded by a grant from the McDonald Institute, a national research network supporting astroparticle physics across Canada. While the position is based at the University of Alberta, the incumbent may contribute to projects located at partner institutions across the McDonald Institute network.

This role involves detailed engineering work to support the development of advanced scientific apparatus, requiring strong technical, coordination and project management skills.

The Faculty of Science is internationally recognized for excellence in research and education. Through pioneering discovery and innovation, the faculty addresses global challenges across disciplines such as biology, chemistry, computing science, physics, mathematics, and earth sciences. Its work positions the university at the forefront of technological, environmental, and scientific advancement.

Collaborative Engineering Design

• Review specifications and designs for accuracy; coordinate with design team members and the machine shop.
• Prepare and/or review engineering drawings and floor-plan layouts.
• Ensure engineering/design work meets accuracy, quality, and safety standards.
• Monitor fabrication and construction activities; identify issues and develop solutions.
• Ensure engineering work complies with established standards, procedures, codes, and regulations.
• Coordinate facility operations, safety inspections, and compliance reviews; prepare associated documentation.

Mechanical and Structural Design Analysis

• Contribute to the design of equipment such as vessels, frames, and rotating systems.
• Produce or review working sketches, component designs, and fixture layouts.
• Provide technical input and oversee technical output to ensure compliance with project requirements and applicable standards.
• Perform structural and mechanical CAD design.
• Produce CAD drawings for machining and structural components.
• Conduct simulation and modelling (e.g., FEA), including materials/fracture analysis and structural failure assessments.

Project Management

• Assist in coordinating the activities of engineering and design team members.
• Track project deadlines and monitor budgets.
• Coordinate drawings, procurement, and fabrication with machine shops, manufacturers, and team members.
• Ensure design information and documentation are controlled and shared appropriately.
• Coordinate construction, assembly, and testing activities.
• Assess project requirements, break projects into tasks, and support the team in determining scope and deliverables.
• Integrate design documents into the document management system.
• Support project controls, including cost and schedule reviews.

Communication & Collaboration

• Coordinate and liaise with multiple disciplines (design drafting, instrumentation/measurement, electrical, control systems, mechanical/structural engineering) to ensure alignment and awareness of ongoing work.
• Monitor team activities and provide instruction to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.
• Contribute to the preparation of written documentation such as procedures, technical notes, and maintenance records.

• Act as a liaison between contractors, suppliers, collaborators, and the internal project team.

• BSc in Mechanical Engineering or Structural Engineering.

• Demonstrated experience in engineering design and project execution.
• Ability to travel to collaboration meetings, suppliers, or research sites.
• Ability to work safely with heavy equipment and tools (e.g., cranes, jacks, carts, gantry cranes, hoists) and to work at heights using ladders or scaffolding.
• Strong communication, coordination, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with CAD tools and engineering documentation.

Application Instructions

Click "Apply Now" to submit your cover letter and resume. Please ensure your cover letter outlines your interest in the role and explains your suitability for the position.

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people - from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.

The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.

L'Université de l'Alberta s'engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes de toute orientation sexuelle ou identité et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.