Discover the possible

Anything is possible at the National Research Council (NRC), recently named one of Canada’s 2025 Top Employers for Young People, a 2025 Top Employer in the National Capital Region and Forbes Canada’s Best Employers!

As Canada’s leading research and technology organization, our world-renowned research pushes the boundaries of science and engineering to make the impossible, possible. Every day we explore new ideas through innovative research and help companies discover possibilities that impact Canada’s future and the world.

At the NRC, you’ll also discover new possibilities. Our supportive workplace fosters a culture of creativity, welcoming fresh perspectives and innovation at all levels. We value teamwork. You’ll collaborate across multiple fields and with the brightest minds to find creative solutions. Most importantly, you’ll discover what’s possible within you as you grow, make valuable contributions and progress in your professional journey. From ground-breaking discoveries to a life-changing career, discover your possible at the NRC.

The Role

Help bring research to life and drive your career forward with the National Research Council of Canada (NRC), Canada’s largest research and technology organization.

We are looking for a Technical Officer, Optics to support the operations of the Optical Technologies team at the Clean Energy Innovation (CEI) Research Centre. The successful candidate will share our core values—integrity, excellence, respect and creativity.

The NRC’s CEI Research Centre provides Canada’s energy industries with advanced technologies, and we use our world-class expertise to bridge the gap between scientific discoveries and their industrial application. Our mission is to bring clean-energy and decarbonization innovations to Canadian industry. The Optical Technologies team develops optical and spectroscopic sensors for materials analysis and continuous process monitoring—from proof-of-concept to industrial demonstration.

A typical day involves working in the lab to prepare experiments (design, assembly, modification, installation) using a wide range of equipment (optical, optoelectronic, mechanical, vacuum or pressurized) and doing measurements and tests.

It may also involve taking part in training sessions, team/project meetings, and health and safety activities, as well as helping with prototyping, documenting experiments and doing general maintenance of lab equipment, and taking on various support roles, such as purchasing supplies/equipment.

You will also have the opportunity to work on major—potentially international—optical and sensor technology development projects. See examples below:

Illuminating orebody knowledge: NRC’s Lumine™ combines LIBS and AI to deliver unique insights for the mining industry - National Research Council Canada

Mining sensors hub - National Research Council Canada

You will also have the opportunity to interact with a variety of NRC teams with diverse expertise, as well as with numerous external partners.

Are you looking to advance your career in a stimulating, cutting-edge environment? If so, then this is the opportunity for you—apply now!

Screening Criteria

Applicants must demonstrate within the content of their application that they meet the following screening criteria in order to be given further consideration as candidates:

Education

University degree or college diploma in physical technology or other discipline related to this position.

For information on certificates and diplomas issued abroad, please see Degree equivalency

Experience

• Laboratory experience in optics, including experience building, aligning and testing optical assemblies, as well as maintaining components and instruments.
• Experience designing and producing technical drawings and mechanical assemblies.
• Experience in automation and instrument control.

Condition of Employment

Reliability Status

For a Reliability Status, verification of background information over a period of 5 years is required.

Language Requirements

French

Information on language requirements and self-assessment tests

Assessment Criteria

Candidates will be assessed on the basis of the following criteria:

Technical Competencies

• In-depth knowledge of optics, including how to assemble, align and operate optical systems.
• Knowledge of LabView programming or Python.
• Knowledge of computer-assisted mechanical drafting (SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and mechanical systems assembly.
• Knowledge of digital and analog circuits.

Behavioural Competencies

Competency Profile(s)

For this position, the NRC will evaluate candidates using the following competency profile(s): Research Technician/Technologist

View all competency profiles

Compensation

From $66,126 to $91,012 per annum.

NRC employees enjoy a wide-range of competitive benefits including a robust pension plan, comprehensive health and dental coverage, disability and life insurance, office closure at the end of December, and additional supports to enhance your well-being throughout your career and beyond.

Notes

• In 2025, the NRC has been chosen as one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People, the National Capital Region’s Top Employers and Forbes Canada’s Best Employers.
• Relocation assistance will be determined in accordance with the NRC's directives.
• A pre-qualified list may be established for similar positions for a one year period.
• Preference will be given to Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents of Canada. Please include citizenship information in your application.
• The incumbent must adhere to safe workplace practices at all times.
• We thank all those who apply, however only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.
• Relocation assistance will be determined in accordance with the NRC's directives.