Are you energized by hands‑on experimental work that directly supports breakthrough R&D? In this role, you will design, build, and execute complex laboratory experiments—from precision specimen preparation to commissioning advanced testing systems, turning data into insights that matter. Your expertise will help sustain and advance critical experimental facilities, including work with radioactive and irradiated materials, while supporting high‑impact programs across research, operations, and failure analysis. You’ll also make a lasting difference by collaborating with multidisciplinary professionals and mentoring junior technologists, strengthening both today’s results and tomorrow’s talent. Apply today!
What will you be doing!
- Executing of laboratory experiments, which includes (i) planning, designing and setting-up of experimental systems, (ii) conducting experiments and generating data according to plan, (iii) interpreting, storing and reporting of laboratory results, (iv) programming of data acquisition systems, and (v) interfacing with branch professional staff and collaborators.
- Designing, fabricating and commissioning of complex experimental apparatus to support R&D material testing projects.
- Preparing of precision specimens from irradiated and unirradiated material in laboratories and in hot cells.
- Periodic handling and processing of samples of radioactive materials.
- Developing and maintaining experimental facilities for performing mechanical testing equipment in controlled environments.
- Maintaining and repairing contaminated experimental equipment in hot cells and active laboratories.
- Participating in CNL, COG and commercial R&D programs as well as site support and component failure analyses on an as required basis.
- Mentoring junior technologists to develop technical skills Other duties as assigned by your manager.
What we are looking for:
- Education
- Graduation from a recognized institute of advanced technology in a field relevant to the position, such as engineering technology, materials sciences, mechatronics, engineering, machining, or related discipline. or equivalent formal education. A degree in a related discipline is considered an asset. OR
- Secondary School Graduation Diploma or equivalent and normally has more than 3 years pertinent experience or the equivalent in experience, additional education and/or training.
- Experience
- Experience in some combination of mechanical testing, material testing, fatigue or delayed hydride cracking test methods, analytical sciences, scientific instrumentation, and designing experimental apparatus would be required.
- Any prior experience in materials science, zirconium metallurgy, in-situ measurement techniques (potential drop or acoustic emission), metallography, CAD, scientific instrumentation such as strain gauges, thermocouples, LVDTs, welding, LabView, and working with systems involving elevated temperatures and pressures would be an asset.
- Any prior experience in machining and/or handling of irradiated material would be an asset.
- Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- A strong working knowledge of the maintenance and use of mechanical testing equipment i.e., load frame is essential.
- A sound knowledge of computers including: using and programmable data acquisition systems, processing of scientific data.
- Security Clearance Eligibility Required
- Reliability Status with Site Access Security Clearance (SASC), which has a minimum requirement of 3 years of verifiable history in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United States and/or the United Kingdom. CNL implements security screening in accordance with the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat's “Standard on Security Screening” and the “Policy on Government Security.”
Working Conditions:
- Experimental conditions will range from ambient (i.e., room temperature and pressure) up to the high temperatures and pressures used in water cooled nuclear reactors. The work will also involve close interaction with other groups on site, particularly metallurgical laboratory, surface science and hot cell facilities.
Why CNL?
Does the idea of working with a dynamic team across Canada to advance nuclear science and technology for a clean and secure world excite you? At CNL, we’re reinventing ourselves to be industry leaders—pioneering solutions to the problems that matter most.
From building the next generation of clean nuclear and hydrogen energy technologies, to developing targeted cancer treatments, to continuing our global leadership in environmental remediation—we are driven by impact, innovation, and purpose.
What We Offer: A Total Rewards Package
We believe in taking care of our people. Here’s what you can expect as part of our team:
- Paid time off: vacation, sick, personal, and floater days
- Benefits effective Day One – no waiting period
- Tuition support to help you keep learning and growing
- A defined-benefit pension plan or a defined-contribution pension plan, depending on your employee group, to support your long‑term financial security
Do Our Priorities Resonate with You?
- Delivering clean energy for today and tomorrow
- Restoring and protecting the environment
- Contributing to the health of Canadians
If so, you’ll feel right at home at CNL!
Location: Onsite
Located in the heart of the Ottawa Valley, our Chalk River site offers a beautiful natural setting with forests, lakes, and wildlife, right at your doorstep. Surrounded by welcoming communities such as Deep River, Petawawa, and Pembroke, you’ll have access to unparalleled outdoor adventures and a fantastic work-life balance.
Please note: This is a fully on-site position based at our Chalk River Laboratory in Ontario.
Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
At CNL, we are committed to fostering an environment that promotes equity, diversity, and inclusion. We celebrate and welcome employees, stakeholders, and partners of all backgrounds and identities. Click here to read all about it!
We are proud to uphold a workplace culture grounded in our Core Values:
- Respect
- Teamwork
- Accountability
- Safety
- Integrity
- Excellence
These values drive our employment practices and ensure meaningful career development opportunities and accommodations for all employees.
CNL is an equal opportunity employer. If you require accommodation during any phase of the hiring process, please let us know via jobs@cnl.ca. All requests will be handled with confidentiality.
CNL operates on sites located on the traditional lands, waterways and ceded and unceded territories of Indigenous peoples. CNL recognizes and affirms all First Nations, Métis communities and Inuit in this land we now know as Canada. We acknowledge, respect and seek to better understand Indigenous history, rights and title on the lands where we work and develop projects. We honour and respect the importance of the relationship between Indigenous peoples and their lands, waters and territories.
