Research Officer, Fuel and Clean Combustion

The role

We are looking for a Research Officer (RO) to join the Low Carbon Fuels and Clean Combustion Team within the Clean Energy Innovation (CEI) Research Centre. The Research Officer would be someone who shares our core values of impact, excellence, leadership, integrity and collaboration.

The NRC CEI Research Centre – Low Carbon Fuels and Clean Combustion Team is engaged in both strategic and industry-focused research and development in low carbon fuels and clean combustion domains, from low carbon fuel characterization to high efficiency application.

The primary responsibility of the Research Officer is to support the goals of the NRC and the CEI Research Centre through the performance of world-class research and the development and application of advanced technologies.

The incumbent will be responsible for performing research, development, optimization and characterization of lower carbon fuels and their application in internal combustion engines and other energy conversion systems.

They work in a team environment with researchers and technical experts in world-class facilities. Activities also include the development of proposals for new research initiatives, project management and providing service to NRC clients.  The incumbent also provides input into the overall direction and research priorities.

If you are interested, have the relevant expertise and experience, and also share our core values of impact, excellence, accountability, leadership, integrity and collaboration, we want you to apply!

To know more about the NRC and the advantage, please click on the following link: https://nrc.canada.ca/en/corporate/careers/nrc-advantage

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

PhD in Mechanical or Chemical Engineering. 

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

Experience

• Significant research and/or technology development experience in fuels and clean combustion. 
• Significant experimental and/or computational experience in two or more of the following areas:
  • Combustion theory and technologies;
  • Alternative fuel characterization and upgrade;
  • Internal combustion engines and advanced combustion strategies;
  • Numerical modelling of internal combustion engines.

Significant experience is defined as having the depth and breadth of experience that would normally have been gained performing the duties over a period of four (4) years or more.

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

• Advanced knowledge in low carbon fuels and characterization; 
• Advanced knowledge in internal combustion engines and advanced combustion strategies; 
• Solid knowledge in combustion theory and modelling; and
• Knowledge in low carbon fuel production and application.

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

The intent of this hiring action is to staff this position at the AsRO or AcRO level, which is a mid-career level position with a salary range of $83,985 to $139,608. 

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).

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.