Director, Research & Development - Aerospace

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

Job Details

City:

Ottawa

Organizational Unit:

Aerospace

Classification:

MGT-2

Tenure:

Continuing

Language Requirements:

Bilingual Imperative CBC/CBC

Work Arrangement:

Full‑time physical presence required at the NRC work location; alternative arrangements may be considered for Indigenous candidates or to accommodate other circumstances.

Condition of Employment:

Background verification for Secret clearance; must be able to travel.

Responsibilities Serve as Director, Research and Development for the Aerodynamics Laboratory (AL) and provide scientific, technical, and managerial leadership. Key responsibilities include:

Oversee AL’s capabilities and ensure alignment with client needs and program priorities.

Lead a team of approximately 65 research and technical staff, managing project execution, resource planning, staff development, and long‑term operational sustainability.

Supervise the management of five industrial wind tunnels used for industrial and defence applications.

Maintain a safe, productive, and inclusive working environment in accordance with NRC policies.

Contribute to strategic planning for AERO and advise on program delivery, technical direction, and stakeholder engagement.

Provide advice and insight on research priorities, funding mechanisms, and collaborations with external partners.

Qualifications Education

Master’s or Ph.D. in science, engineering or business from a recognized university.

Preference for candidates with a combination of engineering and business education.

Experience

Extensive experience in the Canadian and international aerospace ecosystem, including industry forums and stakeholder engagement.

Experience with government operations, policies and regulatory frameworks relevant to public‑sector research.

Scientific expertise in aerodynamics research, defence applications, and advanced aerospace technologies.

Track record in developing and implementing strategic research directions and technical roadmaps.

Leadership experience managing multidisciplinary teams in a matrixed environment.

Proven success in financial, administrative and human‑resource management to deliver complex research initiatives.

Experience building strategic partnerships with industry, academia, government or international collaborators.

Business experience in the aerospace or related technology sector, including operational management and client engagement.

Technical Competencies

Expert knowledge of current and emerging scientific, technical and business issues affecting the Aerospace Research Centre.

Deep understanding of aerodynamics research and development practices, including experimental and computational fluid dynamics.

Strong team‑leadership and project‑management skills with a focus on program relevance and revenue generation.

Advanced program and project management, risk assessment and high‑impact delivery.

Excellent communication skills for internal and external stakeholder collaboration.

Behavioural Competencies

Inspirational leadership, strategic outlook, drive for results, collaboration, financial management, client relationship management, industry sector knowledge.

Competency Profile Management Competencies (MG)

Compensation From $153,444 to $184,059 per annum.

Benefits Robust pension plan, comprehensive health and dental coverage, disability and life insurance, office closure at the end of December, and additional supports to enhance well‑being.

Application For more information on career tools and resources, please check the Career tools and resources section.

If you are a term or continuing employee at NRC, please apply through the SuccessFactors Careersmodule.

Contact: View email address on ca.talent.com | Telephone: View phone number on ca.talent.com

Closing Date:

16 July 2026 – 23:59 Eastern Time

#J-18808-Ljbffr