The Role

We are looking for an early-career Research Officer, Energy Optimization to support our Construction Research Centre. The Research Officer, Energy Optimization would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity.

NRC Construction is implementing the “Platform to Decarbonize the Construction Sector at Scale” to accelerate and scale up new technologies to help transition the Canadian construction sector towards decarbonization and contribute to the emerging low-carbon economy. It will also establish new codes, standards, specifications, and guidelines to position the sector to achieve its 2050 greenhouse gas (GHG) carbon reduction targets. These investments will help spur the growth of Canada’s clean technology sector and help achieve Canada’s international commitments to reduce GHG emissions.

The primary responsibility of the RO is to support the goals of NRC’s Platform to Decarbonize the Construction Sector at Scale. These goals require research of international calibre and the development and application of advanced technologies to support the needs of our numerous industry partners. The RO works in a team environment with researchers and technical experts in world-class facilities. Activities also include the development of proposals for new research initiatives, effective project management, support to the enhancement of facilities, and communication of research plans and results to 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

A PhD degree in one of the following fields:

• Mechanical engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Environmental engineering
• Civil engineering
• Building Engineering
  
  

An equivalent combination of a Master’s degree in the above-noted fields (or a PhD in a related field) combined with significant relevant experience, may be considered

Education related to building performance, energy analysis and/or data science may be considered an asset.

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

Experience

• Significant experience in interacting with data available in buildings (e.g.: building automation systems (BAS), internet of things (IoT) sensors, control systems, etc.), to extract operational and energy data, and then to analyze these data with the goal of modifying operational parameters or suggesting measures/retrofits to reduce costs, energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.
  
  
• Experience in efficiently retrieving, storing and organizing large amounts of sensor/equipment data.
  
• Experience in building data-driven and simulated models using advanced data analysis techniques, including predictive timeseries analysis and multivariate statistics (preferably using Python), to enhance building energy performance (and/or reduce building greenhouse gas)
  
• Experience in the full spectrum of research activities including identification of research requirements, proposal writing, project management, client/stakeholder interaction, data production and analysis, and reporting through written documentation, presentations and publishing.
  
• Experience in working in multi-disciplinary teams.
  
• Experience in business development, marketing activities, and/or the development of partnerships and collaborations may be considered an asset.

Condition of Employment

Reliability Status

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

Language Requirements

English

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 energy-using systems in buildings (HVAC, lighting, plumbing), and the sensors used in such systems.
  
  
• Ability to interact with building automation systems (BAS) and/or internet of things (IoT) sensors/ systems in buildings, and related controls to extract operational and energy data.
  
  
• Knowledge of custom programming for data analysis (e.g. Python, MATLAB, R, Excel macros), and use of advanced statistical techniques (e.g. multivariate analysis, time series analysis, machine learning approaches).
  
  
• Ability to apply data analysis and simulation skills to generate insights into operational changes or targeted retrofits that will enhance building energy performance, and reduce costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
  
  
• Knowledge of building simulation software (e.g. EnergyPlus) and data-driven modelling for energy performance. Ability to interface with simulation software using Python may be considered an asset.
  
  
• Knowledge of big data extraction and tools for organizing these data sets (preferably SQL databases) may be considered an asset.

Behavioural Competencies

Competency Profile(s)

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

View all competency profiles

Compensation

The intent of this hiring action is to staff this position at the AsRO level, which is an early-career level position with a salary range of $83,985 to $116,641.

NOTE: Please note that the full RO/RCO salary scale has five levels. Salary determination will be based on a review of the candidate’s expertise, outcomes and impacts of their previous work experience relative to the requirements of the level. As such, the initial salary could be within another level of the RO/RCO salary scale (i.e. above or below the intended level for this position).

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.

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.

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.