Instrument and Tool Maker

Discover the possible

Anything is possible at the NRC, named in 2025 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 an Instrument and Tool Maker to support our Design and Fabrication Services Branch (DFS). The Instrument and Tool Maker would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity.

Working in a prototyping environment with precision CNC and manual machine tools you’ll be creating precision mechanical prototype apparatus. As a member of the team, you will contribute technical expertise not only to the manufacturing team but to engineering and research groups to help achieve project goals. Using a wide variety of machine tools, the emphasis in part production, is on meeting client requirements while efficiently utilizing available human and physical resources and methods. Your contributions in technical knowledge and hands on mechanical aptitude will provide input to the design, manufacturing and implementation of equipment to support various research groups. Along with providing machining experience you’ll be working in a team environment. This includes modifying existing instrumentation, installation of new instrumentation, and working one on one with NRC researchers to solve problems. 

The position works within a team environment where effective interaction with clients and staff is essential. The incumbent is expected to work closely with other machinists / instrument makers, support staff and Supervisors to meet commitments. The incumbent is responsible for ensuring that agreed upon project delivery commitments and technical specifications of 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

Two years college diploma in tool-making, precision machining, general machining or 1800 hours of professional training in machining.

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

Experience

• Extensive* and recent** experience as a working-level journeymen in one of the disciplines of precision machining or tool-making.
• Extensive* and recent** experience with CAD/CAM and CNC manufacturing methods (with preference to MasterCam 19 or above). 
• Extensive* and recent** experience in production of precision parts using manual machine tools and CNC machine tools.
• Extensive* and recent** experience in reading and interpreting engineering drawings. 
• Extensive* and recent** experience with wire EDM, including cutting specimens of various shapes and machining complex or delicate parts that require specialized setup and close attention to detail.

* Extensive is defined as at least 7 years of experience

** Recent is defined as within the last five years

The following experiences may be considered as an asset but not required:  

• Experience in troubleshooting, diagnosing and repairing of mechanical assemblies within or outside a manufacturing environment. 
• Experience with sheet metal works and welding should be considered as an asset for this shop needs.

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. 

Must be able to work in a physical environment requiring manual dexterity, and must possess and retain the physical capabilities to perform the position which include but may not be limited to: crouching, bending, twisting, pushing, pulling, lifting, slinging, hoisting, ability to hear to diagnose mechanical troubles and handling heavy and bulky objects. 

Language requirements

French  

Information on language requirements and self-assessment tests

Assessment criteria

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

Technical competencies

• Solid Knowledge of a wide variety of manufacturing methods and methodologies for prototyping and limited production of High Precision components.
• Solid Knowledge of manufacturing methods and methodologies in the use of manual machine tools in a prototyping environment.
• Solid Knowledge of CNC programming and machining (i.e.: conventional 3 axis machining and multi axis turning using MasterCam).
• Solid knowledge of good shop practice in the assembly and disassembly of high precision mechanisms.
• Solid knowledge of conventions for tolerances and fits, and related engineering drawing notation practice. 

Behavioural competencies

Competency Profile(s)

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

View all competency profiles

Compensation

From $66,126 to $91,012 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 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.