Supervisor, Design

Discover the possible

Anything is possible at the NRC, named in 2026 one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People, Top Employer in the National Capital Region and Forbes Canada’s Best Employers!

As Canada’s largest research and innovation 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 Supervisor, Design to support our Design and Fabrication Services Branch (DFS). The Supervisor, Design would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity.

Both directly and through the management of staff, the Supervisor, Design is responsible for producing, reviewing and approving designs of experimental apparatus, mechanical instrumentation and high quality, complex mechanical prototypes.  The emphasis in creating designs is on meeting client requirements while efficiently utilizing available human and physical resources and methods.  The position serves as the source of highest-level technical expertise within the design unit and provides input, guidance, direction and leadership to the design unit staff. 

The incumbent is responsible for a range of operational management functions, as well as a full range of supervisory activities with emphasis on leadership, health and safety, performance management, promotion of innovation, and motivation of staff.  He/she will provide input to the director of production for HR, finance, and operations for short and long-term planning purposes. The position works within a team environment where effective interaction with clients and DFS staff is essential. The incumbent is expected to work closely with other DFS Supervisors and Team Leaders to meet commitments.

The incumbent operates the design unit according to sound project management principles and may serve as a manager or leader of large design and fabrication project teams. The incumbent is responsible for ensuring that agreed upon project delivery commitments and technical specifications on design projects are met.

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 in mechanical engineering or college diploma in mechanical engineering technology (2400 hours).  

Candidates with an acceptable combination of education, training and/or experience may also be considered.

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

Experience

• Extensive* experience and expert knowledge in the application of methodology, principles and technologies in the subject matter area, including the planning, design, fabrication, assembly, modification, Quality Management Systems, processes, machines and tools;


• Experience in coordinating activities in a facility or technical service delivery setting including scheduling of resources and of equipment operation and maintenance, training and oversight of laboratory users, and purchasing and inventory control;


• Significant** experience leading and supervising people in a production environment;


• Significant** experience in managing complex, multi-faceted, cross-functional projects and teams, and applying project management methodologies;


• Significant** experience in finance, HR, procurement and other management related principles, policies and procedures;


• Experience in client relationship management and change management;


• Ability to communicate effectively and concisely both orally and in writing with staff and clients in both official languages;


• Asset: Experience in research and development environment.  (i.e. change leadership, training & development, coaching, motivation).

*Extensive is defined as 7 years or more
**Significant is defined as 2 to 6 years

Condition of employment

Secret Clearance

A thorough security clearance process will be applied. 

For a Secret Clearance, verification of background information over a period of 10 years is required. Individuals must have lived in Canada for a sufficient period of time to enable the security screening process. 

Language requirements

Bilingual Imperative CBC/CBC 

Information on language requirements and self-assessment tests

Assessment criteria

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

Technical competencies

• Knowledge in the application of design methods, principles and technologies for the fabrication, modifications and repair of scientific equipment and installations or facilities, including, fabrication methods, additive manufacturing, composites, materials selection, finishing processes and assembly techniques;


• Ability in managing complex, multi-faceted, cross-functional projects and teams, and applying project management methodologies;


• Knowledge of health and safety programs such as COSH and ability to implement a hazard prevention program;


• Knowledge of NRC’s finance, procurement and other management related policies and procedures.

Behavioural competencies

Competency Profile(s)

For this position, the NRC will evaluate candidates using the following competency profile: Supervisor

View all competency profiles

Compensation

From $99,281 to $117,859 per annum. 

In addition, the incumbent 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 2026, the NRC was chosen as one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People, a National Capital Region Top Employer and Forbes Canada’s Best Employer.


• 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.