Aircraft Structural Technician, Structural Integrity

Discover the possible

Anything is possible at the National Research Council (NRC). 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 looking for an Aircraft Structural Technician to work within the Structural Integrity team of the Aerospace Research Centre. This position will support applied research in the areas of structural full scale testing, component testing and material testing as it applies to aircraft life extension and certification. The Aircraft Structural Technician would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity. 

You will be responsible for leading practical test activities from test set-up to test tear-down in the Structural Integrity Test Facility including facility preparation, test rig set-up and alignment, test article configuration and inspection, control system setup and calibration, data acquisition system setup, calibration and data collection, test operations including operator training, and functional supervision. These responsibilities are carried out for all types of projects performed by the Structural Integrity group. The cost of these projects can range from a few thousand dollars taking hours or days to complete to multimillion dollar projects taking several years to carry out. Tests are carried out on a wide range of test articles ranging from simple coupons to multimillion dollar military fighter aircraft.  

Duties will include: ensuring that the test specimen / aircraft is in the prescribed configuration for testing.  This includes responsibility for ensuring that all of the aircrafts systems and components are installed correctly, including specified torques, clearances, preloads and adjustments, according to Canadian Forces Technical Orders and agreed test procedures and specifications. 

The incumbent is required to review the inspection requirements prepared by the Inspection Task Leader prior to each inspection.  Determine and ensure that appropriate access to internal aircraft structure is provided to enable the performance of predetermined inspections during test down times. 

Carry out preparation of detailed instruction and parts breakdown illustration packages, to accelerate the re-assembly process after each inspection shutdown. 

For each necessary specimen / aircraft teardown, scheduled or unscheduled, the incumbent must review and ensure that all disassembly has been reinstated to the specified configuration. 

Ensure that all mechanical loading systems are returned to test status and are functional.  

The incumbent must certify to the Project Manager through his signature on the Test Stop/Resume Authorization Form that the re-assembly has been performed properly and that functionality has been confirmed at the end of each specimen / aircraft teardown. 

In addition, requirements above the incumbent must certify to the Facility Manager through his signature on the Test Authorization Documentation that the assembly/ re-assembly has been performed properly and that functionality has been confirmed at the end of each specimen / aircraft teardown.  

You will also be required to collaborate directly with senior personnel, project managers as well as external 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

Certification and extensive experience (7+ years) as a Canadian Forces Aviation Systems Technician with expertise in aircraft structures, control surface removal and installation and metal working. Civilian AME or AMT with maintenance/overhaul experience will be considered.

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

Experience

• Extensive* experience working on airframe structures, aircraft flight control surface removal, installation and rigging. Preference will be given to those with CF-18 and/or CH-146 Griffon experience;
• Extensive experience working with Canadian Forces Technical Orders and pertinent specifications and/or equivalent civilian technical maintenance manuals;
• Some experience with machine shop equipment, practices and quality control techniques;
• Significant experience of visual, close visual and borescope inspections;
• Significant experience in calibration techniques;
• Experience working accurately from mechanical drawings, with an understanding of precision alignment and fitting of components; and
• Experience operating overhead cranes and aircraft maintenance stands.

The following competencies will be considered as an asset:
 

• Some experience working with composites;
• Demonstrated experience of the operation and calibration of MTS servo hydraulic load frames;
• Hands on experience in test control principles, full-scale structural test techniques and in the operation of a direct digital full-scale control and data acquisition systems including the maintenance of mechanical and servo hydraulic sub-systems.

*Extensive refers to a minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience.

Condition of Employment

Secret (II)

Language Requirements

English

Information on language requirements and self-assessment tests

Assessment Criteria

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

Technical Competencies

• Demonstrated ability to self-manage multiple concurrent projects and appropriately balance work load in order to maintain project schedules;
• Understanding of mechanical testing and test data collection for both static and fatigue testing;
• Knowledge of hydraulic systems including actuators, servo valves, and pumps;
• Knowledge of machine shop equipment and other fabrication equipment used for both fabrication and assembly processes;
• Knowledge of technical orders, service manuals and pertinent specifications;
• Knowledge of NDT techniques including eddy current and Ultrasonic inspection specific to aero applications; and
• Advanced knowledge of aircraft fasteners, their applications and installation requirements.

 
Assets:
 

• Knowledge of the operation and calibration of MTS servo hydraulic load frames;
• Knowledge of test control principles, full-scale structural test techniques and in the operation of a direct digital full-scale control and data acquisition systems including the maintenance of mechanical and servo hydraulic sub-systems;
• Knowledge of cold working techniques used in aero applications.

Behavioural Competencies

Competency Profile(s)

For this position, the NRC will evaluate candidates using the following competency profile: Research Technician/Technologist

View all competency profiles

Compensation

SALARY UNDER REVIEW

From $73,744 to $94,839 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

• 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.
• Occasional national and international travel may be required.
• Occasional overtime may be required.
• Ability to work in conditions found in an ordinary laboratory environment with some (minimal) exposure to hazardous materials or chemicals such as adhesives and cleaning agents. Independently work in such environments in a safe manner, with a working-level tolerance to a typical test environment with enhanced noise levels, heat and reduced air quality.
• Ability to work at heights is a requirement.
• 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.