Research Assistant

SAIT • Calgary, AB

15d • Onsite

About The Position

SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services department helps partners conceptualize, prototype and deliver products to market. Join one of Canada’s top applied research colleges, innovate for the future and bring industry-generated ideas and game-changing technologies to life.

The Opportunity
Job classification: A5128 - Laboratory Technician II
Hourly rate: $27.58
Position End Date: 2026-12-31
Deadline to apply: 4:00PM, May 11, 2026
Since 2003, Applied Research and Innovation Services (ARIS) has been the research arm of Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), one of Canada’s top research colleges. Leveraging 50,000 square feet of specialized lab space located in the heart of Calgary and supported by a team of over 60 research staff, ARIS provides a wide range of research and innovation services to industries in Alberta and across Canada.
The Centre for Innovation and Research in Advanced Manufacturing and Materials (CIRAMM) is ARIS’ newest centre, dedicated to advancing research in manufacturing and materials science. CIRAMM is at the forefront of driving innovation and fostering industry collaborations to address real-world challenges.
We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Research Assistant to join the CIRAMM team. In this role, you will be responsible for assisting project managers with planning and coordinating activities related to ongoing and upcoming applied research projects. Reporting to the research chair, you will support project managers to ensure project deliverables are met on time, within budget, and in alignment with industry and academic standards.
This position requires a passion for innovation and the ability to adapt to a fast-paced research environment.

Requirements

• Post-secondary degree with relevant research experience; recent graduates in Civil Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related discipline are preferred.
• Strong knowledge of cementitious materials and concrete.
• Demonstrated experience preparing, handling, and testing concrete and cementitious mixtures and samples.
• Familiarity with materials characterization and testing techniques.
• Excellent analytical skills with strong attention to detail in experimental work and data interpretation.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation and teamwork.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Excel and Word) for data analysis, compilation, and report preparation.
• Willingness to perform hands-on laboratory testing and actively contribute to collaborative research initiatives.
• Demonstrated understanding of basic project management principles.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with statistical or data-analysis software such as JMP, SPSS, MATLAB, Origin, or Minitab is considered an asset.

Responsibilities

• Assist project managers to coordinate and manage applied research projects both internally within CIRAMM and externally with industry partners.
• Support project managers with developing and maintaining comprehensive project schedules, including resource planning, materials estimates, and manpower requirements, to meet project milestones effectively.
• Perform literature reviews to support guidelines for low-melting-point metallic alloys, referencing ASTM and ISO standards.
• Prepare cementitious materials and mixes as well as concrete samples.
• Design and manufacture molds and prototypes.
• Perform materials characterization procedures.
• Assist in maintaining the lab environment.
• Assist in the preparation and execution of laboratory tests and procedures, ensuring compliance with established safety and quality standards.
• Maintain and repair laboratory equipment, ensuring optimal functionality to support research activities.
• Monitor and manage inventory of materials, supplies, and laboratory consumables to prevent disruptions in research activities.
• Document project phases meticulously, including experimental designs, methodologies, and outcomes, to ensure accurate project records.
• Create detailed project summary reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Write and edit scientific publications and reports.
• Support CIRAMM’s strategic objectives by performing additional duties as required, ensuring flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic research environment.

Benefits

• Generous time off to pursue other passions and support your wellbeing
• SAIT paid premiums for medical, dental, and vision benefits so you, and your family, are well supported
• Benefits supporting mental health and access to Greenshield + for virtual therapy at a reduced rate
• Access to a Health Spending or Taxable Spending Account
• Professional development opportunities through our Free Seat Program, tuition support, access to LinkedIn Learning and discounted Continuing Education & Professional Studies courses
• Defined Benefit pension through LAPP to help you retire with confidence
• Excellent dining options on campus
• Free access to our fitness facilities and group fitness classes

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree