Aerospace Engineers in the Department of National Defence design, develop, test, and maintain aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems that support Canada's defence and security missions. You will apply advanced engineering principles to solve complex technical challenges, working on projects ranging from fighter aircraft and helicopters to unmanned aerial vehicles and satellite systems. Your work directly contributes to keeping Canadian Armed Forces personnel safe and maintaining Canada's technological edge in aerospace capabilities.
In this role, you will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including other engineers, technicians, project managers, and military personnel. You may be involved in all phases of the aerospace lifecycle—from initial concept and design through testing, production, and in-service support. Your responsibilities could include conducting feasibility studies, performing structural and aerodynamic analyses, developing technical specifications, overseeing testing programs, and troubleshooting operational issues. You will work in modern facilities equipped with computer-aided design (CAD) software, simulation tools, and testing laboratories.
Aerospace Engineers at DND work in a dynamic, security-conscious environment where precision, safety, and innovation are paramount. You will have opportunities to work on cutting-edge defence technology while contributing to Canada's sovereignty and international partnerships. The role requires strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and the ability to manage technical projects within strict regulatory and budgetary frameworks.
Key Responsibilities
Perform aerospace engineering analysis, design, and review, Prepare technical specifications and engineering documents, Conduct inspections, assessments, and quality reviews, Ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards
Required Skills
Technical analysis, Design and drafting tools (CAD), Project management, Regulatory knowledge, Problem-solving, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify as an Aerospace Engineer with the Government of Canada, you must hold a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or a closely related engineering discipline (such as mechanical, electrical, or aeronautical engineering) from a Canadian university accredited by Engineers and Geoscientists Canada (EGC), or equivalent international credentials.
Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) certification is not mandatory for entry-level positions but is highly valued and increasingly expected for career advancement. You can pursue P.Eng. certification through Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) or equivalent provincial bodies after gaining relevant work experience and passing the Professional Practice Examination (PPE).
Once hired, you will have access to continuous professional development through DND and the Public Service, including specialized training in defence systems, software tools (CATIA, ANSYS, MATLAB), systems engineering, and project management. DND also supports employees pursuing advanced certifications, technical specializations, and graduate studies relevant to aerospace engineering and defence technology. Internal mentorship programs and professional development plans help you stay current with evolving aerospace technologies and industry best practices.
Entry Plans
Entry into the Aerospace Engineer career stream at DND typically occurs through competitive public service staffing processes. The most common pathways include:
**Direct Competitions**: DND regularly posts Aerospace Engineer positions open to Canadian citizens. These competitions assess your technical qualifications, experience, and suitability for federal public service work.
**Recruitment Pools**: You may be placed in a DND or Government of Canada recruitment pool following a successful competition, allowing DND to fill multiple positions without re-running the competition process.
**Post-Secondary Recruitment**: DND participates in campus recruitment at Canadian universities with strong engineering programs. Recent graduates can apply directly to entry-level positions or participate in structured graduate hiring initiatives.
**Student Work Programs**: If you are currently enrolled in an aerospace engineering program, you may qualify for the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or Cooperative Education placements, which provide practical experience and can lead to permanent opportunities upon graduation.
**Lateral Moves**: If you are already employed in the federal public service in a related engineering role, you may be able to move into an Aerospace Engineer position through internal staffing processes.
**Security Clearance**: Most DND positions require a valid security clearance. Plan for a background investigation as part of the hiring process.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements for Aerospace Engineers at DND vary depending on the specific position and operational requirements. While many aerospace engineering roles are full-time positions, particularly those involving active design, testing, and project management, DND is increasingly accommodating flexible work options where operationally feasible.
Flexible arrangements may include compressed work weeks, flexible start and end times (within core hours), and telework options for tasks such as design analysis, report writing, and virtual collaboration. However, certain responsibilities—such as on-site testing, facility inspections, and in-person team coordination—may require regular office attendance.
Remote work capability has expanded post-COVID, and many analytical and design-focused tasks can be performed remotely using secure DND systems and software. Part-time or job-share arrangements may be available depending on position classification and operational needs. To explore specific flexible work options, discuss your needs during the recruitment process or consult with your manager once hired. DND is committed to supporting work-life balance while maintaining the operational readiness required for defence priorities.
