Optical Engineer

Priority may be given to the following designated employment equity groups: women, Indigenous Peoples* (First Nations, Inuit and Métis), persons with disabilities and racialized persons*. The Employment Equity Act , which is under review, uses the terminology Aboriginal peoples and visible minorities. Candidates are asked to self-declare when applying to this hiring process. City: Victoria Organizational Unit: Herzberg Astronomy and Astrophysics Classification: RO Tenure: Continuing Language Requirements: English Work arrangements: Due to the nature of the work and operational requirements, this position may be eligible for a limited hybrid work arrangement (combination of working onsite and telework). At the NRC, we recognize that Indigenous candidates may have important connections to their communities and you may be eligible for an exception to this work arrangement. Alternative work arrangements may also be considered to accommodate candidates as required. To learn more about these options, please contact the NRC Hiring team using the contact information below. 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 Herzberg Astronomy and Astrophysics Research Centre (HAA) is seeking an Optical Engineer to lead the conception, development and delivery of advanced optical instrumentation and systems for current and future astronomical observatories. The successful candidate will be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect, and Creativity and will work closely with astronomers, engineers, and technical specialists. The role involves translating scientific and technical requirements into practical engineering solutions, developing optical designs and performance analyses such as tolerancing, stray-light, image quality, throughput, and alignment planning. You will make significant contributions to the design, integration, testing, and verification of complex UV/VIS/NIR optical systems, analyze test results, and recommend design improvements or corrective actions as required. Working within multidisciplinary teams, the Optical Engineer will collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, software, systems, scientific, and technical specialists to develop instrument concepts, perform technical trade studies, and guide engineering decisions throughout the instrument lifecycle. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: leading or contributing to strategic research and development activities; investigating and evaluating emerging optical technologies; preparing technical documentation such as optical specifications, interface control documents, test and verification plans, alignment procedures, technical reports, and design review materials; supporting procurement activities, vendor interactions, component evaluation, and acceptance testing. The position offers the opportunity to contribute to facility-class astronomical instrumentation, space-based observatories and …

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