Assembly Technician
Kanata, Ottawa, ON, Canada
ELECTRO-MECHANICAL ASSEMBLY TECHNICIAN | OPERATIONS
Job Type: Full-time Permanent
Available Locations: Ottawa
Leading the charge of developing cutting edge hardware systems.
Collaborative and highly skilled cross-functional team.
Shaping the future of computing in key industries, turning ideas into reality.
That is what we do at J-Squared.
Are you passionate about using disruptive technology to solve problems previously unachievable? Are you excited about the latest innovations that are allowing us to create more powerful hardware in smaller form factors? Do you like getting your hands dirty while driving results and collaborating with colleagues? If this interests you, then we have an opportunity waiting for you!
WHAT WILL YOUR TYPICAL DAY LOOK LIKE?
As an electro-mechanical assembly technician, you will be responsible for assembling and integrating ruggedized hardware systems, including cables, servers, cabinets, displays, and computer systems, in accordance with engineering drawings and specifications. The role includes performing wiring, mechanical assembly, testing, and basic troubleshooting to ensure products meet quality and performance standards. This position works closely with engineering and inventory management to deliver reliable, high-quality builds in a controlled manufacturing environment.
Specifically, you will be responsible for:
1. Product Assembly & Integration
- Assemble electro-mechanical products including cables, rugged servers, military-grade cabinets, displays, and computer systems.
- Perform mechanical assembly of enclosures, racks, and chassis using hand and power tools.
- Integrate electrical components such as wiring harnesses, connectors, PCBs, and power systems.
- Build and terminate cables and wiring harnesses to specification.
- Perform crimping, stripping, soldering, and connectorization to IPC or internal standards.
- Install and secure subassemblies (fans, power supplies, storage devices, GPUs, etc.) into final systems.
- Follow detailed assembly drawings, work instructions, and bills of materials (BOMs).
2. Testing & Verification
- Conduct functional testing of assembled systems (power-on tests, system validation, burn-in where required).
- Perform basic electrical testing (continuity, voltage checks, signal verification).
- Support diagnostic troubleshooting of failed builds or components.
- Document test results and report discrepancies or non-conformances.
3. Quality Assurance & Compliance
- Ensure all assemblies meet quality standards and customer specifications (including MIL-SPEC where applicable).
- Perform in-process and final inspections of assemblies.
- Identify and escalate defects, inconsistencies, or design issues.
- Perform rework such as component replacement, re-soldering, or re-routing cables.
- Maintain adherence to ESD, safety, and workmanship standards.
4. Documentation & Process Adherence
- Accurately follow work instructions, assembly procedures, and engineering drawings.
- Record build progress, serial numbers, and configuration details in digital routing system.
- Support continuous improvement of assembly processes and documentation.
5. Inventory & Material Handling
- Verify parts and materials against BOMs prior to assembly.
- Handle components carefully to prevent damage (ESD-sensitive devices, precision parts).
- Report shortages, damaged parts, or incorrect materials.
- Maintain organized and clean workstations in accordance with 5S practices.
6. Collaboration & Communication
- Communicate build status, issues, and risks clearly to supervisors.
- Provide feedback on design for manufacturability (DFM) improvements.
- Collaborate with engineering and QA teams to resolve recurring issues.
- Support training of junior technicians or new team members when required.
- Participate in team meetings and continuous improvement initiatives.
7. Safety & Compliance
- Follow all workplace health and safety policies and procedures
- Properly use personal protective equipment (PPE) and tools
- Ensure safe handling of electrical systems and mechanical assemblies.
- Maintain a clean, hazard-free work environment.
ABOUT OUR TEAM
J-Squared has over 30 years of experience excelling in operationally demanding performance environments. Our ruggedized products and solutions are innovative, needs driven, and focused on quality and reliability. Our Octagon Systems line of products is a global leader in rugged computer systems built for use in extreme environments such as mining, defence & military, transportation, and marine. We architect and manufacture systems that work no matter what.
J-Squared’s significant growth has resulted in the company expanding its team to meet this increased demand.
ENOUGH ABOUT US, LET’S TALK ABOUT YOU
For a candidate to be successful in this role, the key qualifications include:
- 3+ years of experience in electro-mechanical assembly or similar role.
- Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, wiring diagrams, and schematics.
- Proficiency with hand and power tools used in mechanical and electronic assembly.
- Familiarity with computer hardware assembly (motherboards, CPUs, GPUs, storage, power systems). Understanding of basic electrical principles (voltage, current, continuity testing).
- Experience using test equipment such as multimeters and basic diagnostic tools.
- Knowledge of ESD handling procedures and best practices.
- Understanding of assembly best practices and workmanship standards (e.g., IPC-A-610, IPC/WHMA-A-620 is an asset).
- Experience working with Bills of Materials (BOMs), work instructions, and revision-controlled documents.
- Familiarity with quality control processes, inspections, and non-conformance reporting.
- Awareness of traceability requirements (serial numbers, configuration tracking, etc.).
- Ability to diagnose and resolve mechanical and basic electrical issues during assembly.
- Ability to lift and move equipment (typically up to 25–50 lbs).
Additionally, we are looking for someone who is:
- Experience with cable assembly techniques including crimping, stripping, soldering, and connectorization.
- Able to obtain and maintain a positive Controlled Goods Assessment.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to high-quality workmanship.
- Ability to follow instructions accurately while maintaining efficiency.
- Good communication skills for reporting issues and collaborating with cross-functional teams.
- Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Please apply to our LinkedIn posting with your cover letter and CV. We would like to thank all applicants for their interest, however, only candidates under consideration will be contacted.
J-Squared respects the dignity and independence of people with disabilities and provides accommodation and support to persons with disabilities throughout any recruitment process, once made aware of a need for accommodation. If you require any special accommodation or support during the recruitment process, please indicate so in your application.