Structural Testing Specialist

Date Posted: 04/28/2026
Req ID: 47668
Faculty/Division: Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering
Department: Dept of Civil and Mineral Engineering
Campus: St. George (Downtown Toronto)
Position Number: 00059341
Existing Vacancy: Yes

About us:

The University of Toronto’s Department of Civil & Mineral Engineering offers a dynamic compendium of research and academic programs with a mandate that spans a wide range of applications in professional practice, encompassing the built environment and its infrastructure, transportation engineering and planning, structural engineering, environmental engineering, mining and geomechanics. Our department seeks to uphold and strengthen its position as a preeminent leader in education and research, and to continue to develop sustainable solutions for the global community across the spectrum from mineral engineering to urban infrastructure.

Your opportunity:

Reporting to the Lead Structural Test Engineer, the Structural Testing Specialist supports the operation, commissioning, maintenance, and troubleshooting of advanced structural and materials testing systems within the Structural Testing Facilities (STF).

The incumbent contributes to the design, setup, instrumentation, and execution of complex experimental testing programs using computer-controlled servo-hydraulic loading systems and advanced data acquisition systems. The position supports research activities by assisting researchers, faculty, and students in developing and implementing experimental test setups while ensuring safe and reliable operation of laboratory equipment.

This role provides engineering-level technical expertise in structural testing systems and instrumentation and supports the commissioning and operation of new universal testing equipment. The position also provides operational backup and technical support for senior technical staff to ensure continuity of laboratory operations.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Analyzing and recommending options for project design
• Modifying experimental processes and implementing more efficient ways to conduct structural testing experiments
• Analyzing applicable installation methods for apparatus and devices
• Liaising with service provider to coordinate the resolution of technical/administrative issues
• Determining technical requirements for fabrication projects
• Creating and reviewing technical drawing sets for manufacturing and testing
• Designing, modifying and fabricating custom lab apparatus
• Providing safety training and ensuring adherence to safety procedures and standards

Essential Qualifications:

• Advanced College Diploma (3 years) in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or an equivalent combination of education and relevant technical experience.
• Minimum three years of relevant technical experience in a structural or materials testing laboratory.
• Experience with servo-hydraulic testing systems or advanced structural/materials testing equipment.
• Experience with experimental instrumentation, sensors, and data acquisition systems.
• Experience troubleshooting mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, or electronic systems.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise a high level of professionalism, confidentiality, good judgment, initiative, tact and discretion.
• Strong interpersonal skills, projecting a positive, professional and courteous and congenial attitude.
• Effective communication skills (verbal and written), as well as strong organizational and time management skills, and strong attention to detail.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, pull, or hold weights more than 25 kg.

Assets (Nonessential):

• A postgraduate degree in a related field is considered an asset.
• Experience implementing experimental test setups in research or industrial testing environments is preferred.
• Experience working with equipment vendors and manufacturers for technical support is an asset.

To be successful in this role you will be:

• Accountable
• Adaptable
• Meticulous
• Organized
• Problem solver
• Team player

Closing Date: 05/06/2026, 11:59PM ET
Employee Group: USW
Appointment Type: Budget - Continuing
Schedule: Full-Time
Pay Scale Group & Hiring Zone:
USW Pay Band 10 -- $72,119. with an annual step progression to a maximum of $92,226. Pay scale and job class assignment is subject to determination pursuant to the Job Evaluation/Pay Equity Maintenance Protocol.
Job Category: Engineering / Technical

Lived Experience Statement
Candidates who are members of Indigenous, Black, racialized and 2SLGBTQ+ communities, persons with disabilities, and other equity deserving groups are encouraged to apply, and their lived experience shall be taken into consideration as applicable to the posted position.

A job description is available upon request