Director, Research & Development - Aerospace

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 seeking a qualified professional to serve as the Director, Research and Development (DRD) for the Flight Research Laboratory (FRL). The successful candidate will be someone who shares our core values of integrity, excellence, respect and creativity.

Based in 5 locations across Canada, the Aerospace Research Centre builds collaborative project teams from a diverse scientific and engineering workforce with particular strengths in aircraft structures, materials, manufacturing, aerodynamics, propulsion, gas turbines and flight research. Projects are conducted to meet the requirements of external clients, internal investment programs, or both.

Current areas of focus and technologies within the Aerospace Research Centre include sustainable aviation and climate action, aerial mobility, digitalization and product certification, aerospace manufacturing, air travel and icing research, and defense sustainment and future operational capabilities.

The DRD for the FRL provides scientific, technical, and managerial leadership, overseeing the laboratory’s capabilities and ensuring they remain aligned with client needs and program priorities. Working closely with program leaders and external stakeholders, the DRD ensures that FRL’s resources are focused, relevant, and effectively deployed.

Reporting to the Director General of the Aerospace Research Centre (AERO), the DRD leads a team of approximately 100 research and technical staff, with responsibility for project execution, resource planning, staff development, and the long-term operational sustainability of the laboratory. The DRD oversees the management of 8 aircrafts, including planning and execution of scientific missions, ensuring each operation meets technical and safety standards. The DRD has the responsibility to maintain a safe, productive, and inclusive working environment, following NRC’s policies and addresses organization priorities including attention to diversity and career development.

As a key member of AERO’s management team, the DRD contributes to strategic planning and provides advice on program delivery, technical direction, and stakeholder engagement. The DRD plays a central role in ensuring that FRL’s activities remain impactful, aligned with AERO’s strategic objectives, and responsive to the evolving needs of NRC programs and clients.

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

Masters or PhD degree in science, engineering or business from a recognized university. 

Preference may be given to candidates with a combination of engineering and business education.

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

Experience

• Extensive experience in the Canadian and international aerospace ecosystem, including active participation in industry forums and stakeholder engagements, as well as a thorough understanding of the scientific, regulatory, and policy landscapes that influence research and partnerships.
• Significant scientific expertise in areas aligned with the Aerospace Research Centre’s domains, specifically in flight mechanics, airborne systems, and flight testing, or related aeronautics fields, with a proven track record of leading research programs or projects.
• Significant experience in leading and nurturing scientific and technical teams in multidisciplinary, matrixed environments, with a focus on fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and promoting professional growth.
• Proven success in applying leadership, financial, administrative, and human resource management practices to achieve organizational objectives and deliver complex research initiatives effectively.
• Extensive experience in building strategic partnerships and business relationships with industry, academia, government, or international collaborators, complemented by strong interpersonal and negotiation skills.
• Significant experience in the business aspects of the aerospace or related technology sectors, acquired through direct involvement in public or private research settings, with responsibilities that include operational management and client engagement.

Condition of Employment

Secret (II)

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. 

Must be able to travel.

Language Requirements

Bilingual Imperative CBC/CBC 

Note: In the event that no qualified bilingual candidates are identified, NRC may consider unilingual candidates who will be required to commit to achieving these levels within two years.

Information on language requirements and self-assessment tests

Assessment Criteria

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

Technical Competencies

• Expert knowledge and understanding of current and emerging scientific, technical, and business issues, including the organizational and external factors that influence the success of the Aerospace Research Centre in its flight research and testing domains;
• Solid knowledge of flight research and testing, with background experience in areas such as flight dynamics, airborne systems integration, experimental flight test methods, certification support, or performance data acquisition and validation;
• Solid ability to lead and manage multidisciplinary technical teams, effectively leveraging organizational capabilities while balancing revenue generation, scientific excellence, and program relevance;
• Advanced knowledge in program and project management, including strategic and operational planning, risk assessment, and delivering high-impact results in a complex research setting;
• Solid ability to lead and inspire organizational change, applying best practices in the management of human resources, financial oversight, and operational efficiency to achieve continuous improvement;
• Excellent communication skills to work collaboratively with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders, including clients, partners, and NRC leadership.

Behavioural Competencies

• Management Competencies - Inspirational leadership (Level 3)
• Management Competencies - Strategic outlook & alignment  (Level 3)
• Management Competencies - Drive for results and efficiency (Level 4)
• Management Competencies - Leverages collaborative relationships (Level 3)
• Management Competencies – Financial Management (Level 4)
• Management Competencies – Client Relationship Management (Level 4)
• Management Competencies – Industry Sector Knowledge  (Level 4)

Competency Profile(s)

For this position, the NRC will evaluate candidates using the following competency profile:  Management Competencies (MG)

View all competency profiles

Compensation

From $153,444 to $184,059 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.