Position Information

Position Title

Applied Research Technician IV (Biomedical Engineering (Rural Health & Assistive Devices) Term-Certain

Position Summary

Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) is seeking a highly motivated Biomedical Engineering student for a 12‑ or 16‑month Applied Research Technician IV (ART IV) placement. This role will support applied research projects focused on improving access to regional and rural health care, with a strong emphasis on person‑centred care, co‑designed assistive technologies, and community‑engaged innovation.

The successful candidate will work as part of a multidisciplinary applied research team that includes engineers, health professionals, social scientists, industry partners, and community organizations. The position involves both technical design and prototyping as well as direct engagement with rural and underserved communities to ensure technologies are practical, culturally appropriate, and aligned with real user needs.

This ART IV role is designed for students who are ready to take on advanced technical responsibilities, work with a high degree of independence, and contribute meaningfully to research outcomes that have direct community impact.

Position Responsibilities

• Technical Design & Prototyping
  • Lead and support the design, iteration, and refinement of assistive devices using advanced CAD tools (SolidWorks).
  • Translate user and clinician needs into functional design requirements, prototypes, and manufacturable components.
  • Support rapid prototyping and small‑batch manufacturing, including additive manufacturing, machining, and assembly.
  • Apply biomedical engineering principles related to human factors, ergonomics, materials, and safety.
• Manufacturing & Systems Integration
  • Contribute to design‑for‑manufacturability decisions, considering cost, scalability, durability, and maintenance in rural contexts.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing and technical staff to select appropriate materials and fabrication methods.
  • Document designs, iterations, and testing outcomes to support knowledge transfer and future scale‑up.
• Community‑Engaged & Person‑Centred Research
  • Participate in community visits, co‑design workshops, and user testing sessions, particularly in rural and regional settings.
  • Work respectfully with community members, patients, caregivers, and service providers to ensure technologies reflect lived experience and real‑world constraints.
  • Support data collection, observation, and feedback synthesis to inform iterative design improvements.
• Team Collaboration & Research Support

  • Work within a multidisciplinary applied research environment, contributing engineering expertise while learning from health, social, and community partners.

  • Support research reporting, technical documentation, and preparation of materials for partners and funders.

  • Mentor junior students or contribute to shared lab and project activities where appropriate.

Required Qualifications

• Three (3) year undergraduate degree, three years of university or equivalency.

• Currently enrolled in a Biomedical Engineering degree (or closely related field such as Mechanical Engineering with biomedical focus).

• More than 6 months up to 1 year

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong CAD skills, with demonstrated experience in complex assemblies and iterative design.

• Knowledge of manufacturing processes, including additive manufacturing and basic machining or fabrication methods.

• Experience with assistive devices, medical devices, or rehabilitation technologies.

• Familiarity with human‑centred or participatory design methodologies.

• Exposure to healthcare environments, community‑based research, or applied research projects.

• Interest in rural health, aging‑in‑place, accessibility, or equity‑focused innovation.

• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a multidisciplinary team.

• Strong communication skills and a demonstrated ability to engage with non‑technical stakeholders.

• Willingness and ability to travel within Central Alberta and surrounding rural communities as required. Drivers license is required.

Salary or Hourly?

Hourly

Salary

$28.66

Benefits and Compensation Information

An additional 15% of the hourly rate in lieu of vacation, statutory holidays and benefits.

About Red Deer Polytechnic

Focused on advancing the economic and social priorities of Alberta, Red Deer Polytechnic(RDP) provides more than 80 industry-relevant programs within a breadth of credentials to approximately 6,300 credit and apprenticeship students and 3,400+ learners with Continuing Education programming. With modern teaching and learning spaces, and state-of-the-art research and innovation centres in advanced manufacturing and energy innovation, the Polytechnic provides applied research opportunities, leadership in the social, economic, and cultural development of Alberta, and myriad lifelong learning opportunities.

Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) is more than a post-secondary institution. It is a community of highly dedicated and skilled faculty, staff, learners, and partners who are making a positive impact on the world around us. Unbound by tradition, we are focused on producing the talent, solutions, and environments needed for Alberta’s economy and society to thrive.

Red Deer Polytechnic’s main campus is located on Treaty 7, Treaty 6 and Métis ancestral lands. This is where we will strive to honour and transform our relationships with one another.

Whatever brings you to Red Deer Polytechnic, we are glad you are here. And we look forward to having you as a valued member of our polytechnic community**.**

Posting Detail Information

Competition Number

2026-A-062

Employment Type

Term-Certain Full-Time

Number of Vacancies

1

Desired Start Date

05/04/2026

Position End Date (if term-certain)

04/30/2027

FTE

1

Hours of Work

8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, 35 hours per week

Open Date

04/23/2026

Close Date

04/28/2026

Open Until Filled

No

Note to Applicant

Red Deer Polytechnic fosters an inclusive learning and working environment where everyone can bring their full selves and share their unique talents. We are committed to being responsive to the evolving needs and expectations of our diverse community.

At RDP, we are committed to a merit-based hiring process, and we believe in an inclusive workplace that is fair, equitable, supportive, welcoming and respectful. We recognize, value, and leverage differences in identities, abilities, background, cultures, skills, experiences, and perspectives. Our practices are guided by the principles of the Alberta Human Rights Act and support the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action. If you believe you have the skills and equivalent experience and potential to contribute to this role, we encourage you to apply

Red Deer Polytechnic will provide job applicants with accommodations in accordance with the Alberta Human Rights Code. To request an accommodation, please contact Peopleandculture@rdpolytech.ca.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Required Documents

• Cover Letter

• Resume

Optional Documents

• References Names and Contact Information

• Transcripts

• Letter of Recommendation