Technical Assistant

Job Description

The Canadian Light Source Inc. (CLSI) is a national research facility of the University of Saskatchewan. CLS produces very bright light to explore the nature and structure of molecules and serves national and international users from academia, industry, and government institutions.

The Canadian Light Source Inc. (CLSI) is now accepting applications for a casual, Technical Assistant on the Far-IR beamline. The Far-Infrared (Far-IR) Beamline at the Canadian Light Source provides exceptionally bright infrared light - 100 to 1000 times more intense than standard laboratory sources - to enable highly precise spectroscopic studies across a broad spectral range (5–1200?cm?¹ using synchrotron light). It supports multiple advanced techniques, including Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), ATR, photoacoustic spectroscopy, diffuse reflection, and FTIR Spectromicroscopy, and can accommodate gas, liquid, and solid samples with specialized cells for each. The beamline's high resolution ( ?0.001?cm?¹), diverse experimental configurations, and microscopy capabilities make it a versatile facility for molecular, materials, and applied research. Access options include peer-reviewed academic proposals and purchased access for proprietary work, with CLS scientists offering experimental planning, data collection, and analysis.

Responsibilities:

• Assists the Beamline Responsible with user support to general users, beamteam members, fee-for-service clients and CLS staff. May assist with the following functions:
• • Beamline and endstation setup
• Sample preparation and training of users on how to operate beamline
• User support beyond normal working hours in accordance with established CLS procedures
• Supervise and support users to ensure that they are able to perform their scientific experiments in an effective manner
• Helps maintain software at beamlines, and to define software specifications. In certain cases, may be involved in the programming and troubleshooting of new software.
• Analyzes and solves beamline or technical problems by developing recommendations.
• Undertakes preventative maintenance under the guidance of the Beamline Responsible.
• Prepares beamline documentation ensuring designs conform to CLS standards, and other relevant codes, standards and practices, subject to the review and approval of the Beamline Responsible.
• Provides scientific tours, group briefings and develops material for scientific presentations.

Qualifications:

• Applicants must be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in engineering or the natural sciences, hold a completed degree in one of these fields, or possess significant experience in infrared spectroscopy or synchrotron science.
• Experience with, or knowledge of Infrared or Vibrational Spectroscopy or Spectromicroscopy would be an asset.
• A clear aptitude for service, teamwork, and research, particularly in programs requiring collaboration.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Hands-on experience working with scientific equipment/instruments.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends if needed.

Remuneration: Remuneration will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. A comprehensive benefits package, including supplemental health and dental insurance, life insurance, a pension plan, and four weeks' vacation, is part of a competitive compensation package.

To Apply: Submit a cover letter, resume, and references in confidence online at Applications will be accepted until March 8, 2026. While all applicants are thanked for their interest, only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Canadian Light Source Inc. (CLSI) is an equal opportunities employer and encourages members of designated groups (women, Indigenous people, people with disabilities and visible minorities) to self-identify on their applications. One of our values is Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion and we strive to create a workforce that reflects our users and the community in which we live. We welcome all qualified candidates to apply, and we hope you will choose CLSI as your employer of choice. If you have any questions or concerns about accessible employment at CLSI, or to begin a confidential conversation about your individual accessibility or accommodation needs through our recruitment process, please contact us at .