Elevator Systems R&D Specialist

Company Description

Express Elevators & Lifts Inc. ("Express Elevators") is a leader in creating innovative vertical transportation and material handling solutions for industrial, commercial, and residential applications. Our products, which include freight and automotive elevators, material lifts, and dumbwaiters, are custom-engineered for exceptional performance, minimal maintenance, and adherence to safety standards like ASME A17.1 and CSA B44. We also specialize in consulting, installation, modernization, and maintenance services to provide integrated, turnkey solutions tailored to each project. With a strong presence across North America, Express Elevators is known for offering reliable solutions to address diverse lift and material handling challenges. Visit us at

Role Description

This is a full-time, on-site role for an Elevator Systems R&D Specialist based in Caledon, ON. The specialist will conduct research and development to enhance elevator and lift systems, analyze data, and develop innovative engineering solutions. Key responsibilities include designing experiments, evaluating product performance, working closely with manufacturing teams, and ensuring compliance with industry safety standards. Effective communication with cross-functional teams and documenting findings are essential aspects of the role.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and contribute to R&D initiatives focused on improving hydraulic power units, controller systems, and door system assemblies, from concept to prototype validation.

• Develop electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control layouts using industry-standard CAD tools for a range of elevator and lift systems.

• Prepare and maintain wire lists, electrical and Mechanical BOMs, and component documentation for production and R&D projects.

• Support the design and testing of next-generation elevator controllers, including logic and wiring architecture and integration with power units and door systems.

• Build, test, and validate prototype assemblies using diagnostic tools, data-driven analysis, and iterative testing.

• Assist with sourcing and evaluating new electrical and electromechanical components, emerging technologies, and alternative suppliers.

• Participate in pre-wiring, assembly, and configuration of COPs, hall stations, and electrical subsystems during prototype builds.

• Support quality control inspections and outbound shipment audits to ensure all electrical systems meet design and prototype specifications.

• Track project hours, prototype timelines, and shipping schedules to support R&D workflow and production commitments.

• Provide technical support to the service department for field troubleshooting and R&D deployment issues.

• Attend on-site service calls and commissioning sessions when needed to resolve complex electrical or control challenges.

• Support installation teams with wiring, commissioning, troubleshooting, and pre-inspection testing for new and R&D systems.

• Ensure all R&D work complies with CSA, ASME, B44, electrical codes, and internal engineering standards.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, R&D, production, and field teams to integrate innovations into complete elevator systems.

• Maintain detailed documentation for all R&D work, including test results, schematics, design iterations, calculations, firmware requirements, and change logs.

• Perform additional tasks as required to support ongoing research, production, and customer needs.

Qualifications

• Diploma or degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field.

• 3+ years of experience in electrical design, industrial equipment, or elevator/vertical-transportation systems (preferred).

• Strong proficiency with electrical CAD software (AutoCAD Electrical, SolidWorks, or similar).

• Solid understanding of control wiring, relays, sensors, PLC logic, and motor controls, hydraulic systems experience is a plus.

• Hands-on experience building or testing electrical assemblies, prototypes, or industrial panels.

• Familiarity with CSA B44, ASME A17.1, and applicable electrical codes (or willingness to learn).

• Strong diagnostic, troubleshooting, and analytical skills.

• Ability to work on-site in a shop environment and travel occasionally for field testing or commissioning.

• Strong documentation habits and comfort working in a fast-paced R&D environment.

• A collaborative mindset, someone who enjoys solving problems with engineers, technicians, and installers.