Technical Officer, Fire Safety

Discover the possible

Anything is possible at the NRC, named in 2026 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

The successful candidate will play an important role within a multidisciplinary team by providing technical support services in the design, planning, execution, and analysis of complex fire safety experiments and tests. Under the general supervision of a Chief Technical Officer, the incumbent will support the needs of the Construction Research Centre and its clients in the field of fire testing for both small-specimen and full-scale building components.

Working as an integral member of a diverse technical team, the Technical Officer will fabricate, instrument, and test intermediate and full-scale wall, floor, and column assemblies. Responsibilities include constructing test assemblies using construction drawings and specifications with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail, installing instrumentation on test assemblies, supporting the setup and execution of fire resistance testing, and assisting in troubleshooting and resolving technical issues during testing activities. The successful candidate must be capable of working independently with minimal supervision while also collaborating effectively with colleagues, sharing technical expertise, mentoring others, and contributing to the achievement of organizational goals.

The position reports directly to the Fire Lab Technical Manager (TO-6). For instrumentation-related tasks, the incumbent will also maintain a functional reporting relationship with the TO-5 Fire Resistance/Instrumentation lead. Work-related discussions and technical guidance will occur regularly with the Technical Manager.

Due to the nature of ad hoc testing activities conducted in remote laboratories, the Technical Officer will at times assume responsibility for the design and construction of test assemblies in the absence of senior technical staff. In these situations, the incumbent will work closely with project managers and, when required, directly with clients to identify practical and effective testing solutions. Strong problem-solving skills and sound technical judgment are essential, as many clients may be unfamiliar with fire testing procedures and requirements. The incumbent will also collaborate closely with the broader construction and fire testing teams to ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and to a high technical standard.

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

College diploma in an Engineering Technology discipline related to the position. A university degree in a related field would be considered an asset.

An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. 

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

Experience

• Significant experience providing technical support and troubleshooting in a laboratory work environment independently and as part of a multi-functional team with emphasis on instrumentation and sample construction.
• Extensive experience with the safe operation, calibration, design, maintenance, verification, repair and installation of equipment and laboratory apparatus such data acquisitions, control systems and instrumentations.
• Extensive experience working with and developing safe work instructions.
• Extensive experience with construction techniques used to prepare and build test samples according to detailed technical drawings
• Experience in project management focused multi-disciplinary research environment.
• Experience in producing construction drawings using AutoCad or equivalent software.
• Experience in working in cross-functional initiatives and collaborating with stakeholders outside the immediate work unit. 
• Experience in designing, developing, evaluating and / or testing new technologies, tools and procedures/processes in order to support the development, evaluation, and /or planning of technical capabilities

Condition of employment

Reliability Status

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

• Must be able to possess and retain the physical capabilities to perform the position which include but may not be limited to: working in confined spaces, working at heights, lifting up to 25kg, crouching, bending, twisting, walking, and climbing stairs and ladders.
• Must be able to obtain and retain a valid Driver’s License
• Must be able to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Must be able to use machinery and retain the related certifications
• Must be comfortable working outdoors in all weather

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

• Knowledge of theoretical concepts relating to Fre Safety. General knowledge of related industry trends, developments and best practices.
• Knowledge of basic project management principles, tools and processes.
• Knowledge of basic intellectual property protection and management principles.
• Knowledge of occupational health and safety best practices required to create and maintain a safe and healthy work environment.
• Ability to analyze, discuss, solve problems and present on complex technical issues relating to test setups.
• Ability to write reports and draft protocols and standard operating procedures.
• Ability to work within a multi-disciplinary team environment
• High-Degree of adaptability (shifting priorities, client demands, on-site last-minute changes)

The incumbent must have a good knowledge of ULC, ASTM and ISO standard test methods and CSA building material application standards.  The work requires a working knowledge of varied construction practices and knowledge of small specimen material testing for gas and heat release measurements.

Behavioural competencies

Competency Profile(s)

For this position, the NRC will evaluate candidates using the following competency profile(s): Technology Support

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 2026, 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.