Program Director, Quantum Safe Technologies and Applied Quantum Computing Challenge Programs

Employment Equity

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.

Position Details

City: Ottawa; Fredericton; Montreal; Waterloo

Organizational Unit: Digital Technologies

Classification: MGT-2

Tenure: Continuing

Language Requirements: Bilingual Non‑imperative CBC/CBC

Work arrangements: The position will require full‑time physical presence at the NRC work location identified. Alternative work arrangements may be considered to accommodate candidates as required.

Program Overview

We are looking for a Program Director for the Quantum Safe Technologies (QST) and Applied Quantum Computing (AQC) Challenge Programs. The QST Program, launched in April 2026, focuses on quantum‑safe cybersecurity applications. The AQC Program advances research in quantum algorithms and software, building on recent progress to deliver public sector benefits and commercial opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the QST and AQC Challenge Programs, managing program strategy, deliverables and outcomes.
• Collaborate with the NRC’s National Program Office and an Innovation Investment Advisor to administer the programs and secure funding for external collaborators.
• Guide multidisciplinary teams across NRC research centres, IRAP and business units, ensuring effective programme execution.
• Engage stakeholders, develop business partnerships and oversee the commercialization potential of quantum‑safe technologies and quantum algorithms.
• Manage financial and human resources, ensuring project budgets and staffing are aligned with program goals.
• Communicate program progress and impact to senior leadership and external partners.

Qualifications

• Education: PhD in computer science, engineering, applied mathematics, physics, or a field relevant to the position.
• Experience:
  • Program Management: Experience developing strategic program plans and associated metrics for innovation; significant and recent administrative, financial, and human resource management experience; recent experience leading and monitoring studies or strategic initiatives in a complex environment; supervising and developing staff in multidisciplinary teams, ideally in a matrix environment.
  • Cryptography, Cybersecurity or Quantum Computing: In‑depth experience working in the Canadian and international context around cryptographic, cybersecurity, or quantum computing technologies; proven experience establishing and managing partnerships, defining contributions and reporting structures, and managing intellectual property; significant research and development experience in quantum‑safe technologies or quantum computing.
  • Communications: Significant experience providing strategic advice to senior executives; demonstrated experience designing and delivering impactful technical and programmatic presentations.
  • Business Experience: Significant business experience within relevant scientific and technological domains; experience in one or more targeted industry sectors—quantum‑safe technologies or quantum computing—would be an asset.
• Significant experience is defined as the depth and breadth of experience normally associated with the duties for a period of approximately three (3) years. Recent experience is defined as having performed the duties within the last five (5) years.

Conditions of Employment

• Secret clearance required. A thorough security clearance process will be applied, requiring verification of background information over a period of 10 years.
• Bilingual Non‑imperative CBC/CBC language proficiency. In the event that no qualified bilingual candidates are identified, NRC may consider unilingual candidates who will be required to commit to achieving these levels within two years.

Compensation & Benefits

From $153,444 to $184,059 per annum.

Benefits include 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 well‑being throughout your career.

Applicant Guidance

• Preference will be given to Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents of Canada.
• The incumbent must adhere to safe workplace practices at all times.
• Relocation assistance will be determined in accordance with NRC directives.
• Closing date: 6 August 2026 – 23:59 Eastern Time.

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