Informal Conflict Management Practitioner

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

Help bring research to life and drive your career forward with the National Research Council of Canada (NRC), Canada's largest research and technology organization.

We are looking for an Informal Conflict Management Practitioner to support our Secretary General Office. Reporting to the Ombud, you will be responsible for providing guidance, services and specialized expertise in the field of conflict resolution / informal conflict management to employees and managers of the NRC, in order to establish, maintain and restore a positive and productive work environment within the organization and increase individual and organizational conflict competency.

NRC managers and employees may seek conflict resolution services and assistance in a variety of workplace conflict situations including:

• Interpersonal conflicts or specific disputes arising between employees (including managers) of the organization, or between employees of the organization and external stakeholders, partners or clients.
• The management of disputes or conflict situations that have arisen on a larger scale, involving a group or groups of employees and/or managers.
• The prevention of apparent or perceived conflict situations that could develop as a result of planned or unforeseen major changes, events or other pressures.
• The management of apparent or perceived systemic causes of conflict within teams or larger elements of the organization.

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

A university degree (post-graduate training in field(s) relevant to the position may be considered an asset), which may include science, engineering, social sciences (business, psychology, law, economics, ethics), human resources management, labour relations or organizational development.

Designation as Third Party Neutral, master degree in conflict management or equivalent (may be obtained through training - documented proof required), Certification in coaching or accreditation in NOVA GLOBAL or EQ-I may be considered an asset. 

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

Experience

• Significant experience in providing informal conflict management services in a workplace setting, including all of the following: conflict coaching, mediation/facilitated discussions, and group interventions.
• Experience consulting and providing advice and recommendations on complex issues raised by senior management, unions or employees.
• Experience in developing and delivering presentations and training materials related to conflict management.
• Experience in conducting workplace assessments and/or facilitating workplace interventions with groups in conflicts.

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. 

Language requirements

Bilingual Imperative CBC/CBC 

Information on language requirements and self-assessment tests

Assessment criteria

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

Technical competencies

• Knowledge of conflict management and interest-based dispute resolution theories, principles, methods, techniques and practices.
• Knowledge of the NRC, and its mandate, programs and awareness of the characteristics and special requirements of an innovation program and scientific research environment.
• Knowledge of communications principles, methods and techniques, including adult learning and group facilitation principles, methods, techniques and practices.
• Knowledge of various services that relate to conflict management, such as harassment prevention and resolution, workplace wellness, labor relations and values and ethics.
• Ability to mediate and facilitate the resolution of workplace issues.
• Ability to deliver presentations and training sessions.
• Ability to diffuse an emotionally charged situation.
• Ability to work under pressure with multiple priorities.
• Ability to compose and edit sensitive written information.

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 $113,155 to $126,359 per annum. 

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.

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.