Architectural Designer

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 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 Architectural Designer to support our Real Property Planning and Management Branch. The incumbent would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity.

Working closely with a multi-disciplinary project delivery and engineering team, the Architectural Designer is a vital member to RPPM’s engineering and construction team. They are responsible for providing architectural design solutions to meet specialized research environment driven requirements as well as accommodation, construction and renovation needs to support NRC infrastructure by way of drawings and specifications. In addition, the Architectural Designer shall provide support to the operations and maintenance team as required.  

The projects range from office fit-up accommodations, renovations, restorations and alterations of NRC buildings and facilities to new construction and involve all construction trades and disciplines including civil, structural, architectural, mechanical and electrical. The project values can range from tens of thousands of dollars to millions of dollars depending on the complexity and size of the project being completed.  

Due to the fast-paced working environment, the Architectural Designer needs to have strong communication skills and must be comfortable working with contractors, consultants, clients, and other NRC stakeholders.

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

Post-secondary education in Architectural Technology. 

An equivalent combination of education and experience may also be considered.  

Membership in a provincial technologist architectural association (e.g., AATO in Ontario, OTPQ in Quebec, etc.) will be considered an asset.

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

Experience

• Significant* and recent* experience in architectural design relating to multidisciplinary commercial, institutional and industrial construction or renovations.
• Significant* and recent* experience in the preparation of tender/construction drawings using AutoCad software, specifications in National Master Specification (NMS) format and associated construction cost estimates.
• Significant* and recent* experience interacting with internal and external stakeholders including designers and engineers from various disciplines, clients, contractors and other participants working in institutional, commercial or industrial facilities construction or renovation projects.
• Significant* and recent* experience managing multiple projects and client requirements.
• Experience leading a multidisciplinary design team and acting as the main client contact.

* Significant experience is defined as two (2) to six (6) years of experience.
** Recent experience is defined as experience acquired within the last five (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

English  

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 architectural design practices.
• Knowledge of applicable codes, standards and guidelines relating to design and construction requirements for institutional, commercial or industrial buildings and facilities.
• Solid knowledge of general documentation, tendering and contract award practices for construction projects.
• Solid ability to produce architectural drawings for purpose of tendering and construction using AutoCad software.
• Basic knowledge of common mechanical, electrical, structural and civil systems, functions and typical layouts for commercial, institutional and industrial buildings and facilities.
• Solid knowledge of program management principles.

The following competencies would be considered as an asset: 

• Knowledge of Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat Policy of Management of Real Property.
• Knowledge of the Government of Canada Workplace Fit-up Standards.

Behavioural competencies

Competency Profile(s)

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

View all competency profiles

Compensation

From $83,435 to $107,838 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.