Policy Advisor

The role

Under the general direction of the Executive Advisor to the Vice President of the Emerging Technologies Division, leads in the development and coordination of strategic planning, program design and/or implementation, and policy advice in science and technology (S&T), economic and social domains, with a special focus on quantum technology development in Canada.  This involves research and analysis across a wide set of policy issues and strategies, and calls for the ability to integrate and implement advice based on topical, organizational, and whole-of-government perspectives. This position requires the incumbent to provide advice and recommendations to the Director and other senior executives in situations where there is time pressure and imperfect or unclear information. Decisions could have important reputational, policy, and fiscal impacts for the NRC and could affect the ability of the NRC to collaborate on initiatives with other partners.

The incumbent will be expected to represent, advance and make linkages with NRC’s interests at quantum S&T forums and inter-departmental committees and may be required to support other Emerging Technologies division and corporate priorities for internal and external audiences.  Strong writing and oral briefing skills are required of this position, as well as the ability to manage projects with multiple stakeholders and to think and plan strategically. 

The work relating to the above activities is complex and of a highly sensitive nature. The incumbent must understand, and take responsibility for, the implications of management decisions derived from his/her information and advice.  Due to the high degree of urgency and importance of issues associated with this position, the incumbent must be able to work well under pressure, and work within a team environment while meeting tight deadlines.

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

University degree, preferably in the natural or social sciences, business, economics or public administration.

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

Experience

• Experience researching, consulting, and drafting policy or strategy documents,
• Experience providing strategic advice on policy and program issues related to the NRC's role in advancing innovation, science and technology, including the preparation and delivery of analyses and presentations; strategic discussion papers, and any other briefing material for internal and external executive decision-makers.  
• Significant experience working on collaborative initiatives with internal and external partners and interacting with high-profile stakeholders (e.g. leading academics, industry CEOs, etc.)  
• Significant experience preparing speaking notes, briefing notes, scenario notes, minutes etc. for senior leaders such as Presidents and VPs, as well as generating and delivering presentations and other materials;
• Significant experience in rapid synthesis of complex emerging technologies’ concepts for a lay audience in both English and French;
• Experience in applying project management principles. 

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 BBB/BBB 

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 define, manage and execute assignments while working effectively with internal team members and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to research, analyze and summarize complex data and situations and communicate results and conclusions in a clear and compelling way.
• Knowledge of federal government priorities and the role of the National Research Council of Canada.
• Ability to plan, organize and set priorities under tight deadlines.
• Ability to build, maintain and strengthen partnerships.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.

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

This position is classified as a Research Council Officer (RCO), a group that is unique to the NRC. Candidates are remunerated based on their expertise, outcomes and impacts of their previous work experience relative to the requirements of the level. The salary scale for this group is vast, from $64,739 to $183,010 per annum, which permits for employees of all levels from new graduates to world renowned experts to be fairly compensated for their contributions.

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).

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.

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.

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.