EDUCATION LEVEL

Doctoral degree in Engineering in a relevant field of study

UNIT / PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

Ranked among the top engineering schools in Canada and worldwide, the Faculty of Engineering has a reputation for innovative programs, cutting-edge research, leading faculty, and aspiring students. It has earned a strong reputation as a centre for academic excellence and innovation. Comprised of three schools that offer a diverse range of programs and degrees, the Faculty of Engineering offers multi-faceted educational experiences that help create global-ready, socially aware citizens through project-based classes, flexible co-op work terms, research opportunities and over 60 clubs and teams.
We are welcoming applications for the full-time position of Principal Research Engineer in the Material Property Assessment Lab (MPAL) at the McMaster Manufacturing Research Institute (MMRI) in the department of Mechanical Engineering at McMaster University. This position is responsible for leading and guiding a technically diverse group of experts in material characterization and property assessment research to identify existing or novel solutions that support product development, design, and testing for manufacturing industries. The successful candidate will work closely to liaise between academic researchers of different technical backgrounds and industry partners with specific functional needs to improve their designs, strengthen their manufacturing operations and enhance innovation. A key skill set is the ability to convert a high-level problem statement into a function set of tests, organize and prepare samples, conduct testing, interpret results, and provide a professional report. A strong background in material science and engineering is required for this role as well as leadership, problem solving and managerial experience.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Principal Engineer is responsible for providing guidance and advice for multiple research projects and providing extensive, highly specialized, engineering services in broad areas of assignments in order to design, develop, and oversee research and contract projects.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Doctoral degree in Engineering in a relevant field of study.
• Requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience.

EMPLOYMENT EQUITY STATEMENT

McMaster University is located on the traditional territories of the Haudenosaunee and Mississauga Nations and within the lands protected by the “Dish With One Spoon” wampum agreement.
The diversity of our workforce is at the core of our innovation and creativity and strengthens our research and teaching excellence. In keeping with its Statement on Building an Inclusive Community with a Shared Purpose, McMaster University strives to embody the values of respect, collaboration and diversity, and has a strong commitment to employment equity.
The University seeks qualified candidates who share our commitment to equity and inclusion, who will contribute to the diversification of ideas and perspectives, and especially welcomes applications from indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) peoples, members of racialized communities, persons with disabilities, women, and persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.
As part of McMaster’s commitment, all applicants are invited to complete a confidential Applicant Diversity Survey through the online application submission process. The Survey questionnaire requests voluntary self-identification in relation to equity-seeking groups that have historically faced and continue to face barriers in employment. Please refer to the Applicant Diversity Survey - Statement of Collection for additional information.

Job applicants requiring accommodation to participate in the hiring process should contact:

• Human Resources Service Centre at 905-525-9140 ext. 222-HR (22247), or
• Faculty of Health Sciences HR Office at ext. 22207, or
• School of Graduate Studies at ext. 23679

to communicate accommodation needs.

INTERVIEW EXPERIENCE

At McMaster University, we believe in a comprehensive and inclusive interview process. Our interview methods encompass a variety of approaches that allow our hiring teams to provide a flexible and accessible experience for engaging with our candidates. Throughout your recruitment process at McMaster, you may be requested to participate in a variety of formats, that may include in-person, virtual or recorded interviews. If you have any questions as you move through the hiring process, please reach out to talent@mcmaster.ca or the HR contact associated with your position of interest.

PURPOSE & KEY FUNCTIONS:

• Develop and design research projects.
• Prepare and submit proposals to external funding and granting agencies.
• Manage multiple research projects by defining and coordinating resource needs, determining priorities to achieve project goals, and setting schedules that will meet defined deadlines.
• Design, fabricate, and assemble equipment and instruments that require the identification, modification, and adaptation of novel engineering techniques.
• Apply specialized knowledge to review, critically appraise, and interpret published literature.
• Conduct standardized research experiments using specialized equipment and instruments.
• Identify, analyze, and solve new, unique, and complex problems as presented in research contracts and projects.
• Apply standardized engineering principles and adapt methods from a specialized field or discipline.
• Collect, evaluate, and analyze data.
• Will be required to design and develop computer software required for, but not limited to, data collection, design, modelling, and mathematical and statistical analysis.
• Identify, recommend, and incorporate new approaches and methodologies into research.
• Author scientific reports and papers for inclusion in journal publications and contract reports.
• Format and summarize data and write technical reports based on research findings.
• Develop and deliver technical presentations to engineering colleagues, industry, and contract agencies.
• Present briefings to industry and to representatives of contracting agencies on the progress of the work that is being conducted to ensure the awarding of or continuing of additional funding.
• Obtain contracts to provide support for projects.
• Assign and schedule work to others and review work for technical accuracy and adequacy.
• Provide financial and resource planning and tracking for research projects and contracts.
• Provide advice in a specialized field to colleagues, collaborators, and students.
• Exchanges technical and scientific information with others.
• Liaise with external clients and project partners.
• May be required to perform activities which require dexterity and precision including, but not limited to, the manual calibration of laboratory equipment, and assembly of circuit boards,
• Remain current with frequent advances in a technical field or scientific discipline.

The Principal Research Engineer will be part of a cross-functional team. Tasks may include:

• Supervising a group with diverse technical backgrounds.
• Responding to customer requests.
• Translating customer requests into actionable tasks.
• Engaging with others on delivery of tasks.
• Executing test plans on a range of specialized characterization equipment.
• Interpreting results and preparing reports.
• Keeping work area tidy, organized and professional.
• Following all safety requirements.
• Participating in ongoing training.
• Engaging in networking activities to promote the group and its services and build collaboration