Engineering Physics Co-op Position (2026-09)

Closes: October 19, 2026

FTE: Full-time
Term: Up to 8 months – January 2027 to August 2027
Compensation:

• Third Year Co-op: $30.00/hr
• Fourth Year Co-op: $33.50/hr

Location: Nelson, BC (this position requires regular onsite work in Nelson)
Industry: Precision-engineered ion sources and related particle accelerator solutions
Fees: D-Pace will reimburse all co-op institution fees

Areas of focus: The student will be responsible for improving the performance of our filament volume cusp ion source by prototyping new high-current filament designs and testing them for lifetime and ion source current improvements. The student will also conduct experiments to characterize both volume cusp and ECR ion sources utilizing manual and automated approaches and data analysis techniques.

How to Apply

In your cover letter please answer the following:

• What is the coolest or most rewarding engineering project that you have worked on, and why? Describe a project that best demonstrates your technical skills related to this role. Include the objective, process, and outcome.

Please submit resume and cover letter as PDF documents using the following naming convention:

• YYYY – year number, MM – month number, DD – day number
• “YYYYMMDD-engineering.physics.coop-surname-firstname.pdf”

Note: Only candidates chosen for an interview will be contacted.

Position Overview

D-Pace is looking for a senior-level (3rd or 4th year) engineering student to work with our multidisciplinary engineering team on projects related to the R&D of our ion source systems and diagnostics.

Under the direction of our Lead Physicist, the student will develop and conduct experiments designed to improve the performance of our filament-powered volume cusp ion sources and ECR ion sources, combining hands-on prototyping, experimentation and analysis. As time permits, the student may also take on projects under the supervision of the Director of Engineering, including system assembly and commissioning.

Projects

D-Pace has several projects in this vein, depending on interest and experiences. Typically, we have a list of projects to choose from

• High-Power, Long-Life Filament Development: Design, fabricate, and test higher-power, longer-lifetime filaments for our volume cusp ion sources. These high-current (~400 A) tungsten (W) or tantalum (Ta) filaments are critical to ion source performance and customer operation. The goal is to improve filament lifetime while enabling operation at higher currents to increase ion beam current. Possible opportunity for co-authorship.
• Ion Source Characterization: Conduct experiments to characterize the performance of new ion sources. As part of our commercialization process, you may develop and carry out manual and automated parameterized tests to evaluate and document ion source performance.
• Ion Source System Assembly & Commissioning: Work alongside engineers, physicists, and production staff to assemble, test, troubleshoot, and commission complex multidisciplinary ion source systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Learn how to tune our Ion Sources – adjusting electrode apertures and positions, high-voltage power supplies, feed gas flow, and magnet currents to achieve optimal beam currents and beam quality.
• Design and build prototypes, such as filaments, assembly jigs and fixtures, utilizing SolidWorks™ or alternative software.
• Design experiments, data loggers, and data processing tools to conduct physics experiments on Ion Source hardware utilizing automation and AI as appropriate.
• Develop analysis tools to assess machine performance, using Python™ and other tools.
• Work with our Machine Learning team to leverage experiment automation.
• Document and present results to engineering and research team.
• Assist in instrumentation design and implementation (circuits, PCBs, OTS hardware integration).
• Assist in data acquisition, analysis, and processing.
• Utilize electronic lab equipment to test and troubleshoot analog and digital circuits.
• Manage your project, including status update meetings and design reviews.
• Maintain accurate logs of experimental configurations, operating parameters, and experimental results.
• Documentation management including electronic communication, electronic files, and test reports.
• Safe, reliable, organized, and detail oriented.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Level: 3^rd or 4^th year students
• Discipline: Electrical Engineering, Engineering Physics, Software/Computer Engineering, Computer Science.
• Currently legally entitled to work in Canada.

Required Experience

• Experience troubleshooting and operating complex systems.
• Previous experience running experiments in a controlled setting.
• Diligent and meticulous record keeping. This is paramount!
• Good documentation skills for writing and editing reports, and procedures.
• Hands-on experience with mechanics and/or electronics with a craftmanship mindset.

Preferred Experience

• PLC Design knowledge and/or experience.
• Knowledge of accelerator fundamentals.

Competencies

• Project Management & Organization: You plan, coordinate, and execute technical and experimental activities in an organized and disciplined manner. You maintain accurate logs, documentation, test records, and project updates while managing priorities effectively.
• Problem Solving & Analysis: You apply logical, data-driven reasoning to analyze system behaviour, troubleshoot technical issues, evaluate experimental results, and develop practical solutions through testing and iteration.
• Attention to Detail: You demonstrate accuracy and thoroughness in experimentation, data collection, testing, coding, and documentation activities. You understand that consistency and attention to detail are critical to reliable results and system performance.

What’s in it for you?

At D-Pace, you’ll be part of a team that’s shaping the future of particle accelerator technology. We offer a collaborative, innovative environment where your contributions directly impact scientific and industrial progress worldwide.

• Grow your technical capabilities and collaborative skills in an innovative company in the unique field of particle accelerators.
• Competitive wages based on compensation surveys, experience, and knowledge.
• Reimbursement of required university co-op program fees.

About D-Pace

D-Pace Inc. is a global leader in supplying products and services to the international commercial accelerator industry. Our expertise spans ion sources, beam diagnostic devices, and beamline systems for research, industrial, and commercial accelerator systems. We are proud to support cutting-edge scientific and industrial applications through our innovative technologies and collaborative approach.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our company. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workplace fosters creativity, innovation, and effectiveness. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.