Research Technician

About Western

With an international reputation for success, Western ranks as one of Canada's top research-intensive universities. Our research excellence expands knowledge and drives discovery with real-world application. Western also provides an exceptional employment experience, offering competitive salaries, a wide range of employment opportunities and one of Canada's most beautiful campuses.

About Us

The Department of Physics and Astronomy’s mission is to be a cornerstone of society’s development through physics and astronomy education of students, the creation and dissemination of knowledge, innovative partnerships with industry, government, and other educational institutions in the global community.

The Elginfield Observatory (ELGO) is a multi-use facility located 25 km North of the main Western campus. ELGO was established in 1968 and currently hosts a series of novel high speed cameras and three 0.5m telescopes in individual observatories with primary research focus on solar system science. 
 

Responsibilities

The Research Technician will work under the direction of the Senior Technical Specialist, and in collaboration with Principal Investigators and the research team, to conduct techniques, following set protocols and procedures, at the Elginfield Observatory (ELGO) including gathering imaging data, ensuring quality control of data, and archiving of data. The role will contribute to providing research program support and guidance to the research team, regarding equipment, software, data acquisition and archiving, and project design, assist with facility maintenance, organization, and order supplies as required. The Research Technician will maintain a series of novel cameras and telescopes and related software required to support research at the ELGO, assist in the testing of future equipment, gathering imaging data, and assessing data quality. 

Qualifications

Education:

• 4 year University Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Physics and Astronomy, or related field

Experience:

• 1 year of experience working in a related academic research laboratory environment (e.g. as an undergraduate student in an academic environment)
• Practical experience in the operation, testing, and/or maintenance of sensing equipment in a research setting
• Experience with software development and software-hardware interfaces
• Experience in optics, specifically with telescopes or other remote-sensing equipment is preferred 
• Experience with Raspberry Pi-controlled hardware preferred 

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Working knowledge of basic electronics and computing skills (in particular, demonstrated knowledge and ability to use Python)
• Communication skills to describe technical concepts effectively to both novice and sophisticated users and with an ability to write clear, concise, and accurate procedural documentation, detailed analytics, and reports
• Familiarity with preventative maintenance techniques and practices with the ability to troubleshoot, diagnosis, and repair mechanical, electrical, and/or electronic devices
• Familiarity with methods for research design, implementation, and analysis and with research methodologies and analyses
• Familiarity with techniques for updating, managing and extracting data from a research database
• Familiarity with a UNIX operating environment
• Ability to work as part of a research group and to support multiple research programs is essential
• Ability to apply critical thinking to evaluate information and make appropriate decisions or recommendations
• Attention to detail with an ability to retrieve, analyze and synthesize sizable amounts of data, while ensuring that information is accurate and comprehensive
• Ability to follow formal processes and protocols with high attention to detail
• Ability to employ a systematic and efficient approach to work
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, meet tight deadlines and adapt to changing priorities
• Ability to work in a manner that models best practices in confidentiality standards
• Intermediate computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite
• Computer skills with the ability to learn and use relevant software, applications or equipment that achieves required outcomes for the facility
• Excellent troubleshooting ability along with hands-on expertise in technical support
• Personable and courteous in working relationships with leaders, colleagues, students and other stakeholders
• Ability to identify key results from research and to summarize and draft reports on research findings
• Ability to work independently and effectively as a member of the team to achieve department goals
• Ability to adhere to legislated safety requirements and Western safety policies
• Familiarity with University policies and procedures related to research preferred
• Ability to work within a flexible schedule to accommodate the research group’s events and activities
• Must have drivers license with ability to travel between Western and the Elginfield Observatory facility; Valid Class G driver’s license required
   

Union Statement

Western welcomes applications from all qualified individuals; however, it is the university's policy to give first consideration to all qualified UWOSA applicants.

Background Checks

Please note, successful applicants will be required to produce a current, clean driving abstract prior to commencing employment.

Western Values Diversity

The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.  If you require accommodations for interviews or other meetings, please contact Human Resources or phone 519-661-2194.

Please Note:

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


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