ABOUT US

Western Science ranks among Canada’s top ten Faculties of Science. With about 200 full-time faculty and about 300 full-time staff in seven departments and several support units, the Faculty of Science is dedicated to advancing the scientific frontier in order to address societal challenges as well as to explore the beauty of our world. We engage in fundamental and curiosity driven science, collaborate with members of the local, national, and international community to inform decisions which impact on issues of environment and sustainability, and help to build industrial capacity.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• 3 year Community College Diploma in Electronics Engineering Technology or relevant field

Experience:

• 4 years experience with discrete component level testing, diagnostics, troubleshooting, calibration and repair of general scientific instrumentation
• Experience working with radio frequency based instrumentation
• Experience with discrete component level testing, diagnostics, troubleshooting, and calibration
• Experience in the design and fabrication (electronic and mechanical) of scientific instrumentation and supporting equipment
• Experience with plumbing (hydraulic, pneumatic), electrical (AC, PLC), soldering, spot welding
• Experience working with computer hardware and software
• Experience machining with both general and CNC equipment in metals, plastics and ceramics would be an asset

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Familiarly with scientific, digital (Boolean), and complimentary (e.g. ones, nines) math
• Intermediate computer skills in Microsoft Office including spreadsheet design, word processing and database management
• Familiarity with PCB design using EDA software (e.g. Eagle/Autodesk Fusion, KiCad)
• Working knowledge of machining, both general and CNC, in plastics, metals and ceramics would be an asset
• Working knowledge of microcontrollers including C, C++, and Assembly programming languages
• Strong manual dexterity and coordination
• Ability and willingness to work with specialized instrumentation (such as high voltage>1kV, high power RF, magnetic and ionizing (Xray) radiation, large rotating machinery)
• Ability and willingness to stay abreast of technological developments with a demonstrated commitment to upgrading skills (such as through data books, magazines, formal courses, seminars and vendor specific training courses)
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact with technical and non-technical users
• Strong organizational skills to handle multiple tasks and projects in a fast paced, high pressure, frequently interrupted work environment with tight and changing deadlines
• Ability to work independently and effectively as a member of the team to achieve department goals
• Ability to assimilate and process new information quickly and to apply logical thinking, creativity, innovation and resourcefulness to solving problems
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to coach team members and support clients
• Strong customer service skills to handle inquiries and resolve issues in a professional and timely manner
• Demonstrated ability to research/investigate issues and resolve problems
• Familiarity with preventative maintenance techniques and practices with the ability to provide guidance on the proper and safe use of materials and equipment
• Ability to collaborate across internal and external boundaries to meet common objectives, improve outcomes and support work beyond one’s own unit
• Ability to work in a manner that models best practices in confidentiality standards
• Ability to provide solutions and ideas for improvement by using imaginative approaches where constructive thinking and innovation are required
• Decision making skills to resolve complex technical issues
• Detail-oriented with an ability to function and process information with high levels of accuracy
• Ability to provide guidance, support and feedback in a way that is positively received
• Ability to take responsibility for own work and ensure that deadlines are met and outcomes are achieved

• Ability to be forward thinking, anticipate possible errors, and take preventative measuresPersonable and courteous in working relationships with colleagues, students and the public

The Technical Specialist (Electronics Shop Technician) ensures a state of research readiness by providing hands-on technical support and assistance in the operation of specialized equipment and instrumentation to support the undergraduate teaching and the performance of research in the Faculty of Science. The role provides guidance to undergraduate and graduate students, staff, faculty and other stakeholders, and responds to inquiries of a highly technical nature related to specific research projects, undergraduate and graduate laboratories and courses. The Technical Specialist troubleshoots, repairs and maintains hardware, equipment and/or instrumentation, and will design, enhance and modify parts, apparatus, hardware and/or equipment as necessary to facilitate the achievement of the research objectives.