As an Aerospace Engineering Inspector, you play a vital role in ensuring the safety, airworthiness, and compliance of Canadian military and defence aerospace systems. You conduct detailed technical inspections, testing, and evaluations of aircraft, engines, avionics, and related components throughout their lifecycle—from design and manufacturing through operational service and maintenance. Your work directly supports the operational readiness of the Canadian Armed Forces while protecting the safety of personnel and the public.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include reviewing engineering documentation and design specifications, performing physical inspections and non-destructive testing, witnessing manufacturer and contractor testing activities, and preparing detailed inspection reports with findings and recommendations. You collaborate closely with engineers, maintainers, contractors, and regulatory authorities to identify deficiencies, verify corrective actions, and approve systems for operational use. You may also participate in incident investigations, provide technical advice on engineering problems, and contribute to the development of inspection standards and procedures.
You'll work in a dynamic environment that combines office-based technical analysis with hands-on inspection activities in hangars, maintenance facilities, and manufacturing plants. Depending on your assignment, you may travel to contractor facilities, forward operating locations, or test ranges. This role requires strong attention to detail, independent judgment, and the ability to balance thorough inspection protocols with operational timelines.
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
You will typically need a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline from an accredited Canadian university or equivalent. Professional engineering credentials are valuable; many successful candidates are Professional Engineers (P.Eng.) or are working toward this designation through Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) or equivalent provincial bodies.
Specialized training provided by the Department of National Defence includes aerospace-specific inspection techniques, military aircraft systems, quality assurance procedures, and relevant Defence standards and specifications. You may pursue certifications in non-destructive testing methods (such as ultrasonic or eddy current inspection), composite materials inspection, or avionics systems depending on your assignment. The Government of Canada supports ongoing professional development, including technical courses, conference attendance, and pursuit of advanced certifications to keep you current with evolving aerospace technologies and regulatory requirements.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways within the federal Public Service. The most common route is through a Public Service Commission (PSC) open competition advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions are typically open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents and may be advertised at different classification levels depending on your experience.
If you're already working in the Public Service, you may apply for internal competitions or use lateral movement processes to transition into this role from related engineering or technical positions. Some candidates enter through student or early-career development programs such as the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or the Post-Secondary Recruitment (PSR) program, which can lead to indeterminate positions after successful completion. Veterans with aerospace maintenance or technical backgrounds may have access to dedicated recruitment initiatives and bridging programs. We recommend regularly checking jobs.gc.ca and subscribing to job alerts for Aerospace Engineering Inspector positions within DND.
Part-Time Options
Most Aerospace Engineering Inspector positions are full-time roles, as the nature of inspection work—including site visits, contractor witnessing, and technical review—typically requires consistent full-time presence. However, the Public Service does offer flexible work arrangements on a case-by-case basis depending on operational requirements and management discretion.
Remote work options are limited for this role due to the hands-on inspection and facility-access requirements inherent to aerospace engineering work. However, some administrative and report-writing components may be performed off-site with appropriate security arrangements. Part-time or job-sharing arrangements are rarely available for inspection positions, as continuity and technical authority are critical. If flexible work is important to you, discuss possibilities with the hiring manager during the recruitment process, as accommodation may be possible for certain circumstances or life stages of your career.
