Continuous Improvement & QA Summer Student
Calian
Quality Assurance
Ottawa, ON, Canada
About Calian
At Calian, we help organizations overcome obstacles, manage risks, and drive progress. Since 1982, we’ve grown from a small consulting firm into a trusted global company across defence, space, health, nuclear energy, public safety, and government.
We create innovative solutions that tackle complex challenges and help organizations and communities stay resilient, informed, and connected. If you’re driven by purpose and energized by solving real-world challenges, we want you on our team.
Ottawa, ON | On-site | Summer Student – QA
Position Overview
The Continuous Improvement & Quality Assurance Summer Student supports the Operational Excellence and Quality Assurance teams in improving processes, maintaining quality standards, and driving efficiency across the organization. This role exists to assist in Lean Manufacturing initiatives, support quality assurance activities, and contribute to ISO-based management systems.
The position provides hands-on exposure to manufacturing processes, data analysis, and continuous improvement projects, working closely with Operations, Engineering, and Quality teams to enhance product quality and operational performance.
Responsibilities
- Supports Lean Manufacturing initiatives (e.g., 5S, basic mistake-proofing) on the shop floor and in administrative processes
- Assists in reviewing manufacturing and business processes to identify improvement opportunities
- Helps coordinate and track continuous improvement ideas and action items across departments
- Supports corrective action activities resulting from audits, customer feedback, and internal quality issues
- Assists in the creation and updating of process documentation (work instructions, procedures, forms)
- Participates in data collection and analysis for quality and operational metrics (e.g., KPIs, defect tracking, MTBF support)
- Supports ISO 9001 and AS9100 internal audit preparation and documentation activities
- Assists with customer feedback tracking and follow-up activities
- Collaborates with cross-functional teams (Operations, Engineering, Quality) on improvement initiatives
- Provides general administrative and coordination support to the Operational Excellence and QA teams
- Other duties as required within the scope of continuous improvement and quality assurance
Qualifications
- Currently enrolled in a post-secondary program in Engineering, Quality Assurance/Quality Control, Operations or a related field
- Strong interest in continuous improvement, manufacturing, or quality systems
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (especially Excel)
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Detail-oriented with good organizational skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
- Willingness to learn new systems and processes and adapt to a dynamic environment
Nice to have:
- Basic knowledge of Lean Manufacturing concepts (e.g., 5S, Kaizen)
- Familiarity with ISO 9001 or quality management systems
- Experience with data analysis or process mapping
Compensation
$17,60 – $19,60/hour
Vacancy
We have 1 available position(s).
#LI-MT1# #SF#
At Calian, we do not use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to screen or evaluate candidates. AI tools may support backend administrative tasks, but they do not influence hiring decisions. All evaluations and decisions are made by real people on our recruitment team and hiring managers. All applicants are reviewed and only those chosen for an interview will be contacted by our recruiting team.
How we hire
- Our hiring process is designed to help us get to know you and discover if you are the best fit for our team. It's also an opportunity for you to gauge if a role at Calian is the right fit for you.
Throughout the process, we’ll share details of the kind of work you’ll be doing, the projects you’ll be working on, the team you’ll be joining, and what it’s like working at Calian. Our biggest tip throughout the process is to just be your authentic self! - Our commitment to diverse, yet highly specialized solutions require many different skills and abilities. We look for the best talent that can contribute to Calian’s success as well as enhance our culture. We encourage you to apply to a role or join our talent community and sign up for job alerts that match your area of expertise and what you are looking for in your next opportunity.
During the recruiting process, you’re encouraged to notify us of any accommodations you may require. We’ll be happy to help.
- We give the same time and consideration to everyone who applies. Here are a few things you can do to ensure your application shines:
- Do your research on Calian, the department, and team you are looking to join
- Add a cover letter that explains why you are a good fit for this position
- Share a portfolio, personal websites, or links to your professional social media
- In your CV, highlight your key achievements - this is your time to brag
- Include dates! Share the timeline of your experience
- Stand out by tailoring your resume to each position you apply to
- Only apply to roles you’re genuinely interested in and that align to your experience
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- Be prepared! Do your research on Calian, the department, and team you are looking to join
- View the responsibilities for the role and find examples that demonstrate how you’ve completed these in your previous work experience
- Prepare a list of questions to ask us
- Dress business casual for your interview (virtual and in person)
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- We assess your skills and fit, you assess our fit for you
- We keep you updated and share expectations as we make progress in the recruiting cycle
- Feel free to reach out to your Talent Acquisition Specialist at any time during the hiring process
Why Work for Calian
Work Environment
- No one-size fits all! We give teams freedom of choice in building an ideal work environment.
- Flexible hours, on-site, hybrid, or work from home options depending on the role requirements.
Impact
Growth and Innovation
We put our people first. We encourage employees to advance their Calian career through professional development and corporate career. Calian is an innovative and growing organization—have your ideas heard by pitching to senior leadership through the Calian Idea Contest!
Culture
Diversity and Inclusion
Total Rewards
- A balanced approach to work and life as we understand the importance of your personal lives.
- Stock purchase plan with additional contribution from Calian
- RRSP Matching Program
CEO Quote
Calian Students & Interns
- Work on interesting projects that have a real-world impact
- Gain industry experience in a collaborative team-based environment
- Have regular 1:1s with experienced team members
- Develop skills for career advancement and growth
- Are encouraged to participate in team building and company social activities