Research Officer, Design, Integration and Control of Mobile Robotic Systems

The role

We are looking for Research Officer, Design, Integration and Control of Mobile Robotic Systems to support our Aerospace Research Centre. The selected person would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity.

This position’s primary responsibility is to support the objectives of the National Research Council Canada (NRC) and its Aerospace Research Centre by conducting world-class research and by developing and applying cutting-edge technologies in the design, integration, and control of mobile manipulator robotic systems, with a particular emphasis on aerial robotics systems. The individual will work collaboratively with researchers and technical experts in world-renowned facilities. You will also carry out activities such as developing proposals for new research initiatives and supporting program management, while working closely with NRC clients and collaborators. In addition, you will provide input on the overall research direction and priorities of the program area within the context of the Research Centre’s operational plan.

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

Master’s or Ph.D. in Mechatronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a discipline related to the position. 

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

Experience

1. Extensive experience in the development and integration of mobile mechatronic systems;
2. Significant experience in the development and integration of aerial robotics systems;
3. Demonstrated experience in the dynamics and control of unmanned aircraft systems using sensor systems, including hands-on experience in technology development with Pixhawk controllers;
4. Significant experience in the modelling and simulation of complex mechatronic and robotic systems;
5. Extensive experience with programming and scripting languages such as MATLAB, C/C++, and Python;
6. Experience in rapid prototyping using CAD software and 3D printers;
7. Experience across the full spectrum of the above research areas, including identifying research needs, proposal writing, project management, data generation and analysis, data quality assurance, and reporting through written documentation, presentations, and publication of high-impact, peer-reviewed research papers; and
8. Experience in developing partnerships and collaborations.

*Significant refers to between 2 to 5 years.
** Extensive over 5 years

Condition of employment

Reliability Status

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

Language requirements

Bilingual Imperative BBB/BBB 

Information on language requirements and self-assessment tests

Assessment criteria

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

Technical competencies

1. Extensive knowledge of mechatronic architectures for unmanned aircraft systems and of the systems engineering approaches used in their design (e.g., Pixhawk, GPS, RTK); 
2. Working knowledge of GCS software (e.g., QGroundControl) for drone mission planning, real-time flight telemetry monitoring, and PID tuning; 
3. Working knowledge of dynamic modeling of mobile robotic systems, including aerial robotics systems; 
4. Working knowledge in the control of mobile robotic systems, including aerial robotics systems; 
5. Extensive knowledge of programming and scripting languages such as MATLAB, C/C++, and Python; 
6. Working knowledge of companion computer architectures (e.g., Jetson, Raspberry Pi); 
7. Working knowledge of the MAVLink protocol and its integration with ArduPilot/PX4 on Pixhawk-based flight controllers; 
8. Working knowledge of simulation tools for complex mechatronic systems such as Simulink, ROS 2, Gazebo, and NVIDIA Isaac Sim; 
9. Basic knowledge of algorithm-driven design tools, such as mathematical optimization and machine learning.

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

This position is classified as a Research Officer (RO), a group that is unique to the NRC. Candidates are remunerated based on their expertise, outcomes and impacts of their previous work experience relative to the requirements of the level. The salary scale for this group is vast, from $64,739 to $183,010 per annum, which permits for employees of all levels from new graduates to world renowned experts to be fairly compensated for their contributions.

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).

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.

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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.

Notes

• 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.