Research Technologist, Civil Engineering

Description

Civil Engineering in the Schulich School of Engineering invites applications for a Research Technologist. This Full‑time Fixed Term position is approximately 10 months (based on grant funding) with possibility of extension.

The Industrial Chair in Bituminous Materials focuses on materials science, specifically asphalt materials. The Chair studies and characterizes these materials through specification testing, rheological methods, and other material characterization techniques. The work involves performance evaluation in road and other constructions, development of new materials and technologies producing environmentally friendly materials with enhanced engineering properties. The Chair closely cooperates with Canadian industry, introducing new products and providing technical and marketing support both in Canada and abroad.

Reporting to the Chairholder, the successful candidate will participate in the research activities of the Bituminous Materials Chair on various projects of characterization and development of new asphalt materials with enhanced engineering properties, studies of colloidal structure, rheology, chemistry, aging properties, and testing asphalt materials according to various specifications. A major part of the assignment will involve preparation and testing of paving mixes.

• Perform routine testing of asphalt materials and paving mixes according to ASTM, AASHTO standards.
• Conduct advanced testing of asphalt materials by chemical, thermal and rheological methods (FTIR, extraction methods, thermo‑rheological testing, etc.).
• Develop new asphalt materials using various methods and technologies (distillation, air‑blowing, modification by polymers, etc.).
• Participate in plant trials and field trials under the Chairholder or appointed coordinator; observe proper workmanship, adhere to technology, and collect samples.
• Manage own time effectively and keep the supervisor informed of activities and progress.
• Demonstrate strong communication, teamwork, customer‑service skills, and exercise judgment within established guidelines.
• Organize information on procedures and data; produce reports for the Chairholder or coordinator.
• Maintain and update the laboratory Quality Manual.

• Maintain and operate specialized equipment including rheological, thermal, spectroscopic testing systems, and instrumentation for production and testing of paving mixes; manage associated computer operations and data acquisition systems.

• Understand safety codes, standards, and systems related to specializations.
• Work with Safety Section to investigate damage, incidents or near misses and ensure procedures align with the University’s Safety Program.
• Operate laboratory equipment safely, keep lab and work area clean and safe.

• Establish effective relationships with staff, peers, supervisor, and the campus community.
• Collaborate with project teams and research laboratories on other initiatives as required.
• Promote a team approach and maintain dialogue with all employees.

• Knowledge and proficiency in Microsoft Office and Outlook.
• Ability to lift and push heavy objects.
• Participate in training opportunities.

• Diploma from a technical college (e.g., SAIT, NAIT).
• Experience in asphalt materials, materials testing, or a similar field (asset).
• High school diploma holders must have at least 5 years of experience in asphalt materials.
• Skill in processing data for internal reports using computer programs and Microsoft Office.
• Strong communication, analytical, organizational skills, and a positive can‑do attitude.

Final date to receive applications: June 09, 2026

This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit and falls under the Technical Job Family, Phase 1.

We encourage all qualified applicants to apply; preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.

As an equitable and inclusive employer, the University encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds, including women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, visible minorities, and individuals of diverse sexual orientation and gender identities, to apply.