Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Specialist

Defence Industrial Strategy

The NRC has an important role within the Government of Canada's Defence Industrial Strategy, accelerating research and innovation, and helping Canadian businesses develop leading-edge technologies for civilian and military use.

With expertise across fields such as transportation, quantum science, medical countermeasures and advanced manufacturing, the NRC is hiring to drive the development of national sovereign defence capabilities. The following role will support the NRC’s contributions to defence priorities.

The role

We are looking for a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) specialist to support the development of airborne SAR sensing capabilities within the Aerospace Research Centre. The Specialist would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity.

Working as part of the Remote Sensing Imaging Group (RSIG), the successful candidate will contribute to the development of SAR-based sensing and analytics for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) applications using drone-based platforms.  

The role includes leading SAR remote sensing research activities, contributing expertise in SAR sensing systems and data processing, developing analytics and methodologies from SAR data, and producing high‑quality applied research outputs supporting defence and dual‑use applications. The candidate will also contribute to collaborations with partners across government, academia and industry. 

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

Ph.D. in Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Geophysics, Engineering Physics, or a discipline closely related to quantitative airborne imaging remote sensing.

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

Experience

• Experience developing SAR-based applications for surface analysis, including the production of Digital Elevation Models (DEMs);
• Experience using AI/ML methods for data collection, analysis, and intelligence development;
• Experience developing target detection methodologies and analytical approaches;
• Experience supporting operations involving remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS/drone technologies) will be considered an asset; and
• Experience in defence-related operations, programs, research, or technology development will be considered an asset. 

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

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 SAR technologies and the development of surface-related SAR applications, including DEM generation;
• Knowledge of AI/ML methods and their application to SAR data collection, analysis, and intelligence development;
• Ability to develop target detection methodologies and associated analytics;
• Ability to develop change detection methodologies and associated analytics; and
• Ability to communicate technical concepts, methodologies, and results effectively. 

Behavioural competencies

Competency Profile(s)

For this position, the NRC will evaluate candidates using the following competency profile: Research

View all competency profiles

Compensation

The intent of this hiring action is to staff this position at the JRO-AcRO level, which is an early to intermediate career level position with a salary range of $64,739 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.

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.