Priority will be given to the following designated employment equity groups: women, Indigenous peoples* (First Nations, Inuit and Métis), persons with disabilities and racialized persons*.

• The Employment Equity Act, which is under review, uses the terminology Aboriginal peoples and visible minorities.

Candidates are asked to self-declare when applying to this hiring process.
City: Ottawa
Organizational Unit: Aerospace
Classification: MGT-2
Tenure: Continuing
Language Requirements: Bilingual Imperative CBC/CBC

EDUCATION

Masters or PhD degree in science, engineering or business from a recognized university.
Preference may be given to candidates with a combination of engineering and business education.
For information on certificates and diplomas issued abroad, please see Degree equivalency

EXPERIENCE

• Extensive experience in the Canadian and international aerospace ecosystem, including active participation in industry forums and stakeholder engagements, as well as a thorough understanding of the scientific, regulatory, and policy landscapes that influence research and partnerships.
• Significant scientific expertise in areas aligned with the Aerospace Research Centre’s domains, specifically in flight mechanics, airborne systems, and flight testing, or related aeronautics fields, with a proven track record of leading research programs or projects.
• Significant experience in leading and nurturing scientific and technical teams in multidisciplinary, matrixed environments, with a focus on fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and promoting professional growth.
• Proven success in applying leadership, financial, administrative, and human resource management practices to achieve organizational objectives and deliver complex research initiatives effectively.
• Extensive experience in building strategic partnerships and business relationships with industry, academia, government, or international collaborators, complemented by strong interpersonal and negotiation skills.
• Significant experience in the business aspects of the aerospace or related technology sectors, acquired through direct involvement in public or private research settings, with responsibilities that include operational management and client engagement.

LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Bilingual Imperative CBC/CBC
Note: In the event that no qualified bilingual candidates are identified, NRC may consider unilingual candidates who will be required to commit to achieving these levels within two years.
Information on language requirements and self-assessment tests

We are seeking a qualified professional to serve as the Director, Research and Development (DRD) for the Flight Research Laboratory (FRL). The successful candidate will be someone who shares our core values of integrity, excellence, respect and creativity.
Based in 5 locations across Canada, the Aerospace Research Centre builds collaborative project teams from a diverse scientific and engineering workforce with particular strengths in aircraft structures, materials, manufacturing, aerodynamics, propulsion, gas turbines and flight research. Projects are conducted to meet the requirements of external clients, internal investment programs, or both.
Current areas of focus and technologies within the Aerospace Research Centre include sustainable aviation and climate action, aerial mobility, digitalization and product certification, aerospace manufacturing, air travel and icing research, and defense sustainment and future operational capabilities.
The DRD for the FRL provides scientific, technical, and managerial leadership, overseeing the laboratory’s capabilities and ensuring they remain aligned with client needs and program priorities. Working closely with program leaders and external stakeholders, the DRD ensures that FRL’s resources are focused, relevant, and effectively deployed.
Reporting to the Director General of the Aerospace Research Centre (AERO), the DRD leads a team of approximately 100 research and technical staff, with responsibility for project execution, resource planning, staff development, and the long-term operational sustainability of the laboratory. The DRD oversees the management of 8 aircrafts, including planning and execution of scientific missions, ensuring each operation meets technical and safety standards. The DRD has the responsibility to maintain a safe, productive, and inclusive working environment, following NRC’s policies and addresses organization priorities including attention to diversity and career development.
As a key member of AERO’s management team, the DRD contributes to strategic planning and provides advice on program delivery, technical direction, and stakeholder engagement. The DRD plays a central role in ensuring that FRL’s activities remain impactful, aligned with AERO’s strategic objectives, and responsive to the evolving needs of NRC programs and clients.