###Please see Special Instructions for more details.

This position is conditionally funded and does not qualify for conversion under the AUPE Collective Agreement.

##Posting Details

Position Information

Position Title

Summer Research Student: Para Sport VR - Computer Science / Programming Student (Applied Research Technician III)

Position Summary

Project Title: Reducing Fatigue and Injury Risk in Parasport Training Through Virtual Reality

Red Deer Polytechnic has secured funding from Alberta Innovates for fully funded student researchers for Summer 2026 (May – August). The Summer Research Studentships (SRS) program provides students with paid experiential learning opportunities at post-secondary institutes in Alberta, enhancing their interest and success in health research and innovation.

Students will have the opportunity for skills development and networking through primary research activities, workshops, speaker series, career mentorship, and other events.

The objectives of the program are to:

• Increase awareness and interest in research and innovation careers that are at the intersection of health and emerging technologies with a focus on advancements in the Para sport industry.
• Create opportunities for emerging talent to acquire experience and connections in Alberta’s health research and innovation ecosystem.
• Increase the competitiveness of Alberta as a destination for research and innovation talent.

We are seeking a proactive, responsible individual who is self-driven and brings a thoughtful, critical approach to problem-solving. As a Computer Programming Intern, you will have the opportunity to work in an interdisciplinary team to continue the development of a Virtual Reality program supporting Para sports.

Position Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement the VR platform, including interactive features, such as, multi-player functionalities and realistic simulations tailored to Para sport scenarios.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members.
• Debug, test, and refine the program based on user and client feedback throughout an iterative development process.
• Document development processes to allow for ease of transferability.
• Skills Gained: Advanced programming in VR environments, problem-solving in user-focused design, collaboration with domain experts, and experience in interdisciplinary collaboration.

Opportunities you will have by securing this position:

• Hands-on experience working on real-world projects alongside industry experts.

• Exposure to the Para sport ecosystem and the role of applied research in advancing accessibility, performance, and inclusion.

• Opportunity to contribute to research and innovation initiatives.

• Mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals in the field.

• Competitive compensation package.

Required Qualifications

• Current enrollment in the program specific to the role applied as outlined in the Position Responsibilities section

• Available for work from May 5 – August 28, 2026

• Ability to work from 8:30am – 4:30pm from Monday to Friday

• Proven strong work ethic, attendance record and productivity in an independent work environment demonstrated through previous employment, education, or volunteer experience.

• Proven ability to work within a team and communicate positively supporting new and different ideas

• Ability to complete work duties such as sitting, standing, and/ light physical effort over modest periods of time, with some opportunity for relief and task variety. The work may involve movement of average weight material with periodic requirements to lift heavier objects.

Preferred Qualifications

• Consideration will be given to all students enrolled at RDP who are looking for a summer opportunity if you have a demonstrated strength in programming.

• (Completed or in progress) Computer Programing Diploma, Software Development Diploma, Network Administration Diploma or Machine Learning Analyst Diploma or a technically minded individual in a related program.

• Strong understanding of programming fundamentals and software development concepts.

• Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g., Python, Java, C++).

• Experience in Unity programming.

• Familiarity with VR development environments (specifically MetaQuest).

• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment.

• Passion for innovation and eagerness to learn about emerging technologies in the Para sport industry.

Salary or Hourly?

Hourly

Salary

$21.19 per hour

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 100 industry-relevant credit and non-credit programs to approximately 11,000 credit, non-credit and apprenticeship students. With modern teaching and learning spaces, and state-of-the-art research and innovation centres, RDP provides education and applied research opportunities in partnership with industry and communities.

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 ourpolytechnic community****.

Posting Detail Information

Competition Number

2026-A-034

Employment Type

Casual

Number of Vacancies

1

Desired Start Date

05/04/2026

Position End Date (if term-certain)

08/28/2026

FTE

1

Hours of Work

35 hours per week

Open Date

03/03/2026

Close Date

03/27/2026

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 contactPeopleandculture@rdpolytech.ca.

Special Instructions to Applicants

This position is conditionally funded and does not qualify for conversion under the AUPE Collective Agreement.

Required Documents

• Cover Letter

• Resume

Optional Documents