Technical Officer, Electromechanical Prototyping for Medical Devices Research

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Technical Officer, Electromechanical Prototyping for Medical Devices Research

Company: National Research Council Canada

Location: Boucherville, Quebec, Canada

Job Type: Full-time, Term (2 years)

Category: Research & Development Operations / Technical Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-16

Experience Level: 2-5 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Support the advancement of cutting-edge medical device research through hands-on electromechanical prototyping and system integration.

• Contribute to the design, fabrication, and testing of microfluidic systems and Lab-on-a-Chip devices for health applications.

• Collaborate within a multidisciplinary research team to develop innovative solutions for rapid biological analysis and diagnostics.

• Uphold rigorous quality management systems and ensure safe laboratory practices in a dynamic R&D environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical application in the medical device sector. The Technical Officer will be instrumental in the physical realization of complex research prototypes, directly impacting the speed and success of R&D projects. The focus on "Electromechanical Prototyping" signifies a hands-on role requiring a blend of electrical, mechanical, and software skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and prototype electronic circuits and printed circuit boards (PCBs) using professional EDA software for custom instrumentation and control systems.

• Assemble, test, and troubleshoot electronic components and integrated systems, ensuring functionality and reliability for research applications.

• Perform mechanical prototyping and assembly, including simple mechanical design and utilization of 3D printing technologies, to create robust experimental setups.

• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including design specifications, assembly procedures, and version control for hardware and software components.

• Integrate hardware components with embedded software for microcontroller-based systems, ensuring seamless operation of electromechanical instruments.

• Support the development and automation of microfluidic systems and Lab-on-a-Chip devices, contributing to rapid analysis of biological targets.

• Maintain and procure laboratory equipment, manage inventory, and ensure proper functioning of facilities to support ongoing research activities.

• Foster and uphold healthy and safe work practices within the laboratory environment, adhering to all relevant safety regulations and protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a hands-on approach to prototyping and system development within a research context. The inclusion of "documentation and version control" and "quality management systems" points to a structured operational approach within the R&D setting, common in regulated industries like medical devices.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Engineering Physics, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline. An equivalent combination of a technical degree and relevant experience may be considered.

Experience: A minimum of 4 years of extensive and recent experience in:

• Designing electronic circuits and circuit boards using professional EDA (Electronic Design Automation) software.

• Electronics assembly, testing, and troubleshooting.

• Mechanical prototyping, including simple mechanical design and the use of 3D printing technologies.

• Documentation and version control for technical projects.

• Instrumentation and control systems. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in professional EDA software for PCB design (e.g., Altium).

• Strong understanding of electronic assembly, testing methodologies, and troubleshooting techniques.

• Practical experience in mechanical prototyping and assembly, including basic design and fabrication.

• Skill in creating and maintaining technical documentation and implementing version control practices (e.g., Git).

• Experience with instrumentation and control systems for experimental setups.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research team.

• Strong problem-solving skills related to experimental and analytical techniques. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with circuit design in Altium.

• Experience architecting, designing, and implementing multi-component software/embedded systems.

• Proven ability to integrate hardware with software.

• Experience with collaborative development tools such as Git.

• Programming experience for FPGAs and/or microcontrollers (C/C++).

• Programming application software in Python.

• Experience working in a team-based, multi-disciplinary research environment.

• Experience in the field of medical devices or related research and development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "extensive and recent experience" highlights the need for candidates to demonstrate current, practical skills. The preferred skills list specific tools and programming languages that are highly valuable, indicating the direction of the team's technical stack and potential future development areas.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Prototyping Case Studies: Showcase projects involving the design and fabrication of custom electronic or electromechanical prototypes. Detail the problem statement, design choices, challenges encountered, and the final outcome.

• PCB Design Examples: Provide examples of complex PCB layouts designed using EDA software, highlighting schematic capture, component selection, routing strategies, and signal integrity considerations.

• Mechanical Design & Fabrication: Include examples of mechanical components or assemblies designed for specific research apparatus, demonstrating proficiency in CAD software and fabrication techniques like 3D printing.

• System Integration Documentation: Present documentation from projects where hardware and software were integrated, illustrating your role in connecting different system components and ensuring their functional interoperability.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in documenting experimental workflows, assembly procedures, and testing protocols. Highlight instances where you improved existing processes for efficiency or reliability.

• Implementation & Automation Methods: Showcase projects where you implemented new systems or automated processes, detailing the steps taken from concept to deployment.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Provide examples of how you collected and analyzed performance data for prototypes or systems, using this data to inform design iterations or validate functionality.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the technical nature of this role, a portfolio demonstrating practical skills in prototyping, design, and documentation is crucial. The emphasis on "process documentation" suggests that the organization values structured approaches to R&D, aiming for reproducibility and efficient knowledge transfer.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $66,126 to $91,012 CAD per annum. This range is based on the provided information and reflects the typical compensation for a Technical Officer (TO-3 classification) with the specified experience level in the Canadian federal government research sector.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Pension Plan: A defined benefit pension plan providing long-term financial security.

• Health Coverage: Extensive medical benefits covering a wide range of healthcare needs.

• Dental Coverage: Dental care benefits to maintain oral health.

• Disability Insurance: Income protection in case of extended illness or injury.

• Life Insurance: Financial support for dependents in the event of death.

• Holiday Closure: Office closure at the end of December, providing additional time off.

• Wellness Support: Various programs and resources aimed at enhancing employee well-being.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week.

While the standard work week is 40 hours, the nature of research and prototyping may occasionally require flexibility to meet project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific to the Canadian federal government pay scale for this classification and location. The benefits package is typical for public service roles in Canada, emphasizing long-term security and comprehensive coverage. The "posted until filled" closing date suggests ongoing recruitment, so interested candidates should apply promptly.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government Research and Innovation. The National Research Council Canada (NRC) is Canada's largest research and innovation organization, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of science and engineering.

Company Size: Large. As a federal government agency, the NRC is a significant employer with a vast network of researchers and technical staff across Canada.

Founded: 1916. With over a century of history, the NRC has a strong legacy of scientific discovery and technological advancement, fostering a culture of long-term innovation and impact.

Team Structure:

• Organizational Unit: Medical Devices Research Centre, specifically within the Bioanalytical Micro-Nano Devices Section.

• Team Size: The Bioanalytical Micro-Nano Devices Section comprises over 35 researchers and technical officers, indicating a substantial and specialized team.

• Reporting Structure: The Technical Officer reports to the NRC Bioanalytical Micro-Nano Devices Section, likely within the Instrumentation Team. This team focuses on designing and building the control components for microfluidic systems.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Expected to collaborate extensively with researchers, engineers, biologists, chemists, and other technical officers within the section and potentially across different NRC departments to support diverse research projects.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Research: Emphasis on scientific rigor, data analysis, and evidence-based decision-making.

• Innovative Problem-Solving: A culture that encourages creative thinking and exploration of novel solutions to complex scientific and engineering challenges.

• Collaborative Development: Strong emphasis on teamwork and knowledge sharing across disciplines to accelerate innovation.

• Quality & Safety Focus: Adherence to strict quality management systems and a proactive approach to health and safety in all laboratory operations.

Company Website: https://nrc.canada.ca/en

📝 Enhancement Note: The NRC's reputation as a leading research institution implies a high standard of scientific inquiry and technical execution. The "Top Employers for Young People" and "Forbes Canada’s Best Employers" accolades suggest a supportive environment for career development and a commitment to employee growth, even within a large government framework.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as a Technical Officer (TO-3), which typically represents an intermediate to senior technical support level within a research environment. It requires significant practical experience and the ability to work with a degree of autonomy on complex technical tasks.

Reporting Structure: The Technical Officer reports to a supervisor within the Bioanalytical Micro-Nano Devices Section, likely a Team Leader or Section Manager. They will work closely with researchers and other technical officers on specific projects.

Operations Impact: The Technical Officer's work directly impacts the success of R&D projects within the Medical Devices Research Centre. By providing reliable prototypes and robust electromechanical systems, they enable researchers to conduct experiments, validate new technologies, and advance the development of innovative medical devices. Their contributions are crucial for accelerating the pace of discovery and the translation of research into practical applications.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas such as advanced PCB design, embedded systems programming, microfluidic control systems, or specific prototyping techniques.

• Project Leadership: As experience grows, there may be opportunities to lead technical aspects of projects, mentor junior technical staff, or take on more complex design challenges.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Exposure to a wide range of scientific and engineering disciplines within the NRC can broaden technical understanding and problem-solving capabilities.

• Internal Mobility: Potential for internal transfers to other NRC facilities or research areas, offering diverse career paths within the organization.

• Professional Development: Access to training, workshops, and conferences to stay current with technological advancements in electromechanical prototyping, medical devices, and related fields.

📝 Enhancement Note: The TO-3 classification and the emphasis on "extensive experience" suggest this is not an entry-level role, but rather one for professionals looking to apply and expand their specialized technical skills in a leading research environment. Growth opportunities are likely tied to increasing technical complexity and project responsibility.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Research Facility. The position is located at NRC facilities in Boucherville, Quebec. This implies a professional laboratory environment equipped for scientific research and technical development.

Office Location(s): Boucherville, Quebec, Canada. This location is part of the Greater Montreal Area, offering access to a vibrant technological and research ecosystem.

Workspace Context:

• Laboratory Setting: The primary workspace will be a laboratory equipped with tools and equipment for electronic and mechanical prototyping, testing, and assembly.

• Collaborative Spaces: Access to shared workspaces, meeting rooms, and potentially design studios for collaboration with team members and researchers.

• Advanced Technology: Access to state-of-the-art instrumentation, fabrication equipment (e.g., 3D printers), and software tools necessary for cutting-edge research.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with a diverse team of scientists, engineers, and technicians, fostering a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week, with potential for flexibility to meet project demands. The on-site requirement ensures full immersion in the laboratory environment and direct collaboration with the research team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "full-time physical presence" requirement is a key aspect of this role, underscoring the hands-on, lab-based nature of electromechanical prototyping. This is typical for roles involving specialized equipment and direct R&D support where remote work is not feasible.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Applications will be screened based on education and experience criteria. Candidates who best meet these requirements will be moved forward.

• Technical Assessment/Interview: Expect a detailed interview focusing on your technical competencies. This may include scenario-based questions, discussions about past projects, and potentially a technical challenge or demonstration related to electronic/mechanical prototyping or system design.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates will likely be asked to present and discuss their portfolio, providing concrete examples of their work in circuit design, prototyping, assembly, and documentation. Be prepared to explain your design choices, problem-solving approaches, and the impact of your contributions.

• Behavioral Interview: Assessment of behavioral competencies such as teamwork, initiative, creative thinking, communication, and results orientation. Prepare specific examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

• Final Selection: May involve further interviews or discussions with senior team members and hiring managers.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose projects that best showcase your skills in electromechanical prototyping, PCB design, mechanical assembly, and system integration relevant to medical devices.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, quantify the results of your work (e.g., "reduced assembly time by 20%", "improved signal accuracy by X%").

• Highlight Problem-Solving: Clearly articulate challenges faced in projects and how you devised and implemented solutions.

• Demonstrate Process: For each project, explain your process – from understanding requirements to design, fabrication, testing, and documentation.

• Tailor to Role: Emphasize aspects of your work that align with the specific requirements of this Technical Officer role, particularly concerning medical device applications and microfluidic systems.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Problem-Solving: Be ready to tackle a hypothetical design or troubleshooting problem related to electronics, mechanics, or system integration. Practice thinking through the steps of analysis and solution development.

• Design Scenario: You might be asked to outline a design approach for a specific electromechanical component or system based on given research requirements.

• Documentation Review: Be prepared to review a piece of technical documentation and identify potential areas for improvement or clarification.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and technical assessment indicates that practical, demonstrable skills are highly valued. Candidates should proactively prepare to showcase their hands-on experience with specific examples and be ready to articulate their technical decision-making processes.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• EDA Software: Professional tools for schematic capture and PCB layout (e.g., Altium Designer, Eagle, KiCad).

• CAD Software: For simple mechanical design and 3D model creation (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360, AutoCAD).

• 3D Printing Technologies: Experience with FDM, SLA, or other relevant 3D printing methods for rapid prototyping.

• Microcontrollers & Development Boards: Familiarity with popular platforms like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, STM32, or similar for embedded systems development.

• Oscilloscopes, Multimeters, Logic Analyzers: Standard electronic test and measurement equipment.

• Soldering Stations and Rework Tools: For electronic assembly and repair.

• Hand and Power Tools: For mechanical assembly and fabrication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Logging Systems: Experience with systems for acquiring and storing experimental data.

• Data Analysis Software: Tools for processing and analyzing experimental results (e.g., MATLAB, Python with libraries like NumPy/Pandas, LabVIEW).

• Documentation Software: Word processors, spreadsheet software, and diagramming tools for technical reports and procedures.

CRM & Automation:

• Version Control Systems: Git is explicitly mentioned as an asset, indicating its importance for collaborative development and code management.

• Project Management Tools: While not specified, familiarity with tools that aid in tracking tasks and project progress is beneficial.

• Lab Management Software: Experience with systems for inventory management, equipment calibration, and lab safety documentation is advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools listed are standard for electromechanical prototyping and R&D in a technical environment. Proficiency in EDA software like Altium and version control systems like Git are highlighted as key skills, suggesting a modern and structured approach to development.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Scientific Rigor & Precision: A commitment to accuracy, detail, and evidence-based approaches in all research and development activities.

• Innovation & Creativity: Encouragement of novel ideas and out-of-the-box thinking to solve complex technical challenges.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A strong emphasis on working together across disciplines, sharing knowledge, and supporting colleagues to achieve common goals.

• Excellence & Quality: Dedication to high standards in technical execution, system reliability, and the quality of research outcomes.

• Safety & Responsibility: A paramount focus on maintaining a safe working environment and adhering to all safety protocols and regulations.

Collaboration Style:

• Interdisciplinary: Working seamlessly with individuals from diverse scientific and engineering backgrounds, requiring clear communication and mutual respect for different expertise.

• Project-Centric: Collaboration is typically organized around specific research projects, with teams forming and reforming as needed.

• Knowledge Sharing: An environment that encourages open discussion, sharing of findings, and constructive feedback to foster collective learning and problem-solving.

• Proactive Communication: Regular updates and clear communication are essential to ensure alignment and address any technical or logistical issues promptly.

📝 Enhancement Note: The NRC's culture likely blends the structured, process-oriented approach of a government institution with the innovative, fast-paced dynamism of a cutting-edge research organization. Expect a professional environment that values both individual contribution and collective achievement.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with advancements in electromechanical systems, microfluidics, and medical device technologies requires continuous learning.

• Complex System Integration: Integrating diverse hardware and software components from various sources can present significant technical hurdles and troubleshooting demands.

• Project Scope Variability: Research projects can evolve rapidly, requiring adaptability and the ability to pivot technical approaches as research objectives change.

• Resource Management: Effectively managing time, materials, and equipment to meet project deadlines and budget constraints within a research setting.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized courses and workshops on topics such as advanced embedded systems, signal processing, microfabrication techniques, or specific software tools.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Opportunities to attend relevant conferences in medical devices, microfluidics, or electronics to stay abreast of industry trends and network with peers.

• Mentorship: Potential to learn from experienced researchers and senior technical officers within the Bioanalytical Micro-Nano Devices Section.

• Cross-Functional Projects: Engaging in projects that require collaboration with different scientific disciplines provides broad exposure and skill development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to cutting-edge R&D. The growth opportunities highlight the NRC's commitment to employee development, providing pathways for technical mastery and career advancement within the organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Prototyping Approach: "Describe your process for designing and building a novel electromechanical prototype from concept to functional test. What are the key steps you prioritize?" (Focus on systematic approach, documentation, testing).

• Problem-Solving Scenario: "Imagine a critical sensor in a microfluidic system is providing erratic readings. How would you troubleshoot this issue, considering both hardware and software possibilities?" (Demonstrate logical deduction, systematic testing, potential root causes).

• System Integration: "Discuss a challenging hardware-software integration project you've worked on. What were the main hurdles, and how did you overcome them?" (Highlight collaboration, communication, technical solutions).

Company & Culture Questions:

• NRC Research: "What interests you most about the NRC's work in medical devices and microfluidics, and how do you see your skills contributing to this area?" (Showcase genuine interest and alignment with NRC's mission).

• Teamwork Experience: "Describe a time you collaborated with individuals from different technical backgrounds on a project. How did you ensure effective communication and achieve a shared goal?" (Emphasize collaboration, communication, and respect for diverse expertise).

• Adaptability: "Research projects often change direction. How do you adapt to shifting priorities or unexpected technical challenges?" (Highlight flexibility, problem-solving under pressure, continuous learning).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each portfolio piece as a mini-story: the challenge, your role, the solution, and the outcome.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to dive into the technical details of your designs, fabrication methods, and testing procedures.

• Visual Aids: Use clear diagrams, photos, and schematics to illustrate your work. If possible, prepare a digital presentation.

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the significance of your contribution and the results achieved.

• Relevance: Connect your portfolio examples directly to the requirements of the Technical Officer role and the NRC's research focus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, assessing both technical acumen and cultural fit. Candidates should prepare specific examples that demonstrate their problem-solving skills, technical expertise, and ability to work effectively in a research environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the NRC's recruitment portal via the provided URL.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight experience and skills directly matching the "Screening Criteria" and "Assessment Criteria" sections of this job description. Emphasize your experience with EDA software, mechanical prototyping, and system integration.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your years of experience in each required area (e.g., "4+ years designing electronic circuits with EDA software"). Quantify achievements where possible.

• Portfolio Preparation: Assemble a portfolio showcasing your best work in electronic circuit design, PCB layout, mechanical assembly, and documentation. Be ready to discuss these projects in detail during an interview.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with the NRC's mission, its Medical Devices Research Centre, and its work in microfluidics. Understand the importance of this role within that context.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.