Ground-based Hardware Specialist

Overview

Join to apply for the Ground-based Hardware Specialist role at University of Alberta.

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

Location: This role is in-person at North Campus, Edmonton, and other remote research sites.

Position Summary

As the Ground-based Hardware Specialist, you will join the Space Physics Group’s magnetometer program in the Department of Physics. Reporting to the Senior Magnetometry Program Manager, you will be responsible for the development, deployment, maintenance, and repair of a remote magnetometer array. Your work will span both local and field-based operations, ensuring the network remains reliable and fully operational.

Your diverse skillset will be central to the setup, expansion, and maintenance of the electronic, sensor, computational, and communications systems that underpin the array's distributed infrastructure. You will be involved in testing, repair, validation, and verification of field-deployed hardware with data contributing to space weather research. Core responsibilities include preparation for field activities with a focus on health and safety.

Responsibilities

1. Plan, deploy and maintain remote sensor networks
2. Participate in full lifecycle project planning, field operations, installation, repair, manufacturing, and operational support for reliable long-term performance.
3. Apply field experience to enhance hardware and software systems to ensure robust operation and continuous data return; typically 5–10 trips/year, each under a week, prioritized in summer.
4. Equipment Maintenance and Troubleshooting
5. Perform regular maintenance, repairs, and upgrades on scientific instruments in laboratory and field environments to ensure continuous operation.
6. Troubleshoot at all levels, from basic servicing to fault diagnosis and repair of complex electronic systems, on-site or via remote support.
7. Remote Instrumentation Development
8. Assist with hardware and software design, system requirements, prototyping, performance modeling, and data analysis to verify and refine designs.
9. Design, build, and test custom electronic circuits—analog and digital—for ground-based instrumentation with emphasis on durability and field repairability, integrated with data logging and communication hardware.
10. Quality Control and Documentation
11. Maintain comprehensive technical documentation for all electronic components and systems.
12. Prepare reports for CSA and other external funding agencies to support instrument operations.
13. Implement quality control measures to ensure system reliability and contribute to field operations and safety plans in compliance with standards.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electronic Engineering or a related field.
• At least 2 years of experience in electronics design, development, and maintenance.
• Proficiency in analog and digital circuit design, electronic troubleshooting, and the use of diagnostic tools.
• Ability to work in rugged, remote northern Canadian environments, including equipment setup, calibration, and troubleshooting. Strong problem-solving skills and adherence to safety protocols required.
• Effective communication and documentation skills; strong team player, self-motivated with high initiative.
• Demonstrated critical thinking and ability to address real-time technical issues in the field.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel to remote research sites. Fieldwork includes physical activity in outdoor conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with microcontroller programming is an asset.
• Experience with field-deployed systems is preferred.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process. If you require accommodations, please let us know at the time of booking your interview.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. All University employees have a responsibility to foster a safe workplace and inclusive environment.

Compensation and Terms

Base pay range: CA$59,822.00/yr – CA$74,785.00/yr. This position has an initial appointment of one year with the possibility of extension. Location details and benefits are described in the relevant agreements.

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