Job Description

This position has a term length of 11 months.

Location - This role is in-person at North Campus Edmonton.

The Department of Surgery at the University of Alberta comprises 15 divisions and offers comprehensive programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate levels. In addition to its core divisions, the department includes numerous research groups that drive cutting-edge advancements in areas such as transplantation, joint preservation and regeneration, and surgical simulation technology. Established in 1922, the department has long been a leader in the field, committed to balancing technological innovation with the human touch that defines the art of surgery. Its overarching mission is to restore health through surgical intervention while upholding patient dignity and comfort as essential components of care.

The Surgical Technologist at the Ray Rajotte Surgical Medical Research Institute (RRSMRI) provides specialized technical support for research involving surgical procedures on large and small animal models as well as human cadavers. This role ensures that all activities are conducted in compliance with institutional SOPs, approved ethics protocols, and Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) guidelines. Reporting directly to the Facility Supervisor and Director, the technologist coordinates and facilitates the smooth operation of RRSMRIs surgical suites, including scheduling procedures, preparing equipment, maintaining sterile environments, and ensuring instrumentation readiness.

The technologist independently performs advanced anesthesia techniques such as Total Intravenous Anesthesia (TIVA), monitors intraoperative vital signs, and provides post-operative care. In addition, the role includes contributing to the operation and maintenance of the RRSMRI Biochemistry Laboratory, where they assist with sample handling, documentation, inventory, and basic analytical procedures. Flexibility to work evenings or weekends is essential, along with the ability to problem-solve, support diverse research projects, and collaborate effectively with investigators, trainees, and external partners.

Responsibilities

Perform all tasks in accordance with University, Faculty, and RRSMRI standards, including compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), institutional protocols, and policies. Provide technical support for RRSMRI clients based on approved ethics protocols. Coordinate and schedule surgical suite time to accommodate client procedures and optimize operating room availability. Manage and maintain surgical equipment and supply inventories, including scheduling equipment for internal and external use. Report directly to the Facility Supervisor and Director on operations, scheduling, and equipment needs. Ensure technical tasks are carried out in strict adherence to approved SOPs and research protocols. Exercise initiative and problem-solving skills to proactively identify and resolve technical or procedural issues. Work independently post-training with advanced knowledge of surgical instrumentation used in large/small animal models and human cadavers. Set up surgical equipment and materials for both recovery and non-recovery procedures. Perform physical tasks, including lifting and moving large animals, to facilitate surgical preparation and post-surgical care. Complete required training in CCAC, U of A, and RRSMRI guidelines on animal handling, biosafety, aseptic techniques, and radiation safety. Offer flexible availability, including evenings and weekends, based on surgical and research demands. Assist with animal ordering, husbandry coordination, and setup of training sessions or lab events. Maintain a collaborative and positive working environment by supporting team members, users, and equipment representatives. Contribute to monthly facility reports and summaries of RRSMRI activities. Administer Total Intravenous Anesthesia (TIVA) in large animal models using infusion pumps and monitoring devices; continuously assess vital signs (heart rate, temperature, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, capnography, and state of consciousness) to ensure safe and effective anesthesia management. Stay current on anesthesia and analgesia protocols, including pharmaceutical agents and their appropriate applications. Perform venous and arterial catheterization (e.g., jugular and carotid vessels) for fluid and drug delivery. Conduct sterile bladder catheterization procedures using Foley catheters in large animal models.

Qualifications

A two year Animal Health Technology Diploma is mandatory. Registered Animal Veterinary Technologist with current membership in good standing as a

Registered Veterinary Technologist with the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Alberta Veterinary Technologist Association (AVTA) is mandatory.

Competent skills in performing required technical procedures. Anesthetic and/or analgesic preparation, administration and monitoring knowledge required. The ability to perform some heavy lifting and transportation of large animals and cages is required. Willing to acquire required training as deemed necessary to comply with the Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) and University guidelines for ethical treatment and handling, sterile techniques, biohazard and radiation safety, such as WHMIS, UofA laboratory and biosafety courses, and Transportation of Dangerous Goods Certificate. Additional professional development and continuing education such as that offered by the Canadian Association of Laboratory Animal Science (CALAS). Working knowledge of general office equipment and computer applications such as Microsoft Office, Google Applications and/or in-house software as required. Good communication skills, both verbal and written, are required. Familiarity with teleconferencing and video conferencing equipment is an asset. Knowledge of University of Alberta policies and procedures is an asset. Prior experience in a surgical laboratory environment is an asset.

Application Instructions

Click "Apply Now" to submit your resume and cover letter.

This position is subject to all applicable terms and conditions of the collective agreement between the Governors of the University of Alberta and the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA).

About Us

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people - from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more .

At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.

The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.

L’Université de l’Alberta s’engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes de toute orientation sexuelle ou identité et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.

About The Team

The Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry is one of the world’s top academic health science centres. With 21 departments, multiple research institutes and centres, and a focus on excellence in education, research, and clinical care, the faculty trains outstanding medical and dental professionals and drives global health innovation in collaboration with partners across sectors.