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

We are looking for a Junior Architectural Designer to support our Real Property Planning and Management Branch. The incumbent would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity.

RPPM has the mandate to lead the prioritization of NRC recapitalization projects and deliver research facilities and real property renewal projects to support NRC’s transformation journey into a more advanced research and technology organization that supports Canada’s science, technology and innovation ecosystem.

Working closely with a multi-disciplinary project delivery and engineering team, the Junior Designer is a vital member to RPPM’s engineering and construction team. They are responsible for providing architectural design solutions, under the guidance and mentorship of a Designer, to meet specialized research environment driven requirements as well as accommodation, construction and renovation needs to support NRC infrastructure by way of drawings and specifications. In addition, the Junior Designer shall provide support to the operations and maintenance team, as required.

The projects range from office fit-up accommodations, renovations, restorations and alterations of NRC buildings and facilities to new construction and involve all construction trades and disciplines including civil, structural, architectural, mechanical and electrical. The project values can range from tens of thousands of dollars to millions of dollars depending on the complexity and size of the project being completed.

Due to the fast-paced working environment, the Junior Designer needs to have strong communication skills and must be comfortable working with contractors, consultants, clients, and other NRC stakeholders.

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

College diploma in Architecture.

A membership in a provincial technologist architectural association (e.g., Association of Architectural Technologists of Ontario (AATO), l'Ordre des technologues professionnels du Québec (OTPQ), etc.) would be considered an asset.

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

Experience

• Experience in the preparation of architectural tender/construction drawings (with the AutoCAD software), specifications and associated construction cost estimates for commercial and institutional projects.
• Experience interacting with designers and engineers from other disciplines as well as clients, contractors and other stakeholders for institutional, commercial or industrial facilities construction or renovation projects.
• Experience in accommodation management services as it relates to office fit-ups.
• Experience in the delivery of small-scale accommodation projects as it relates to office fit-ups.

Condition of Employment

Reliability Status

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

Language Requirements

Bilingual Imperative BBB/BBB

Information on language requirements and self-assessment tests

Assessment Criteria

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

Technical Competencies

• Knowledge of design practices.
• Knowledge of applicable Codes, standards and guidelines relating to design and construction requirements concerning institutional, commercial or industrial buildings and facilities.
• Knowledge of general documentation, tendering and contract award practices for construction projects.
• Solid ability to produce architectural drawings using AutoCAD software.
• Knowledge of common mechanical, electrical, structural and civil systems/functions and layouts employed in commercial, institutional or industrial buildings.

Behavioural Competencies

• Management services - Client focus (Level 2)
• Management services - Communication (Level 2)
• Management services - Initiative (Level 2)
• Management services - Results orientation (Level 2)
• Management services - Teamwork (Level 2)

Competency Profile(s)

Compensation

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

In addition, the incumbent who meets the language requirements will receive the Bilingualism Bonus of $800 per year.

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.