Job Description
Full job description
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.
City: Ottawa
Organizational Unit: National Programs and Business Services Branch
Classification: RCO
Tenure: Term
Duration: 12 months - with possibility of extension
Language Requirements: Bilingual Imperative CBC/CBC
Work Arrangements: Due to the nature of the work and operational requirements, this position is eligible for a hybrid work arrangement (combination of working onsite and telework). Employees in this position who telework will be required to travel to the identified work site at least three times per week or a minimum of 60% of their regular work schedule at their own expense.
At NRC, we recognize that Indigenous candidates may have important connections to their communities and you may be eligible for an exception to this work arrangement. Alternative work arrangements may also be considered to accommodate candidates as required. To learn more about these options, please contact the hiring team using the contact information below.
Discover the possible
Anything is possible at the National Research Council (NRC), recently named one of Canada’s 2026 Top Employers for Young People, a 2026 Top Employer in the National Capital Region and Forbes Canada’s Best Employers!
As Canada’s leading research and technology 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.
The Role
We are looking for a Leader, Intellectual Property (IP) to support our Business and International Innovation (BII) Branch. The Leader, IP would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity.
We are looking for an Intellectual Property (IP) professional to lead the IP team within our Business and International Innovation (BII) Branch. NRC holds over 1+50 patents and has the largest IP team in the Government of Canada. This is a unique opportunity to influence intellectual property strategy in a multi-faceted research organization.
The incumbent will be leading NRC’s intellectual property activities, including:
Developing over-arching IP policies and frameworks.
Overseeing NRC’s patenting activities and associated decision-making process.
Managing technology licence agreements.
Optimizing IP processes.
Ensuring strong IP governance and reporting.
Advising research programs on intellectual property strategy.
Providing expert guidance to the BII NRC executives, and researchers/research managers.
This position reports to the Director, Business Support Team.
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
A university degree in law, business, or a related field.
A master’s degree would be considered an asset.
Holding a patent agent licence in good standing would be considered an asset.
For information on certificates and diplomas issued abroad, please see Degree equivalency
Experience
Significant and recent experience in managing a team and planning team activities and priorities.
Significant and recent experience in the management of intellectual property in a science or technology environment.
Significant and recent experience in overseeing a budget / financial forecasting and reporting.
Significant and recent experience in advising internal clients and senior management on intellectual property matters.
Significant practical experience in the negotiation and drafting of licensing agreements, and/or IP-related provisions in collaboration agreements and research services agreements would also be considered an asset.
Significant is defined as 2 to 6 years
Recent is defined as within the last 5 years
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
Bilingual Imperative CBC/CBC
Information on language requirements and self-assessment tests
Assessment Criteria
Candidates will be assessed on the basis of the following criteria:
Technical Competencies
Solid knowledge of policies and sound practices related to IP management, contract management, financial management, human resources management, and procurement management.
Knowledge of the NRC, its mandate and programs and awareness of the characteristics of scientific and/or technology research environments.
Solid knowledge of the IP protection processes in Canada, the United States, Europe and via the PCT.
Knowledge of the markets for inventions and the financial and technical constraints affecting their commercialization.
Ability to develop and implement IP strategies.
Ability to assess, manage and mitigate risk in a business environment.
Behavioural Competencies
Management services - Client focus (Level 3)
Management services - Communication (Level 4)
Management services - Conceptual and analytical ability (Level 3)
Management services - Initiative (Level 3)
Management services - Results orientation (Level 3)
Management services - Self-knowing and self-development (Level 3)
Management services - Teamwork (Level 3)
Competency Profile(s)
For this position, the NRC will evaluate candidates using the following competency profile: Management Services
Compensation
This position is classified as a Research Council Officer (RCO), a group that is unique to the NRC. Candidates are remunerated based on their expertise, outcomes and impacts of their previous work experience relative to the requirements of the level. The salary scale for this group is vast, from $63,470 to $17+,422 per annum, which permits for employees of all levels from new graduates to world renowned experts to be fairly compensated for their contributions.
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).
In addition, the incumbent will receive the Bilingualism Bonus of $800 per year.
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.
Notes
In 2026, the NRC has been chosen as one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People, the National Capital Region’s Top Employers and Forbes Canada’s Best Employers.
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.
To ensure a prompt and efficient processing of applications, candidates must provide, along with their résumé, a detailed covering letter explaining how they meet each of the requirements of this position (education, experience, language requirements) by providing concrete examples. In addition, the candidate is encouraged to describe in detail when, where and how he/she gained the experience.
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.
Please direct your questions, with the requisition number (23883) to:
E-mail: NRC.NRCHiring-EmbaucheCNRC.CNRC@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
Telephone: 343-++0-8002
Closing Date: 13 May 2026 - 23:5+ Eastern Time
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.
City: Ottawa
Organizational Unit: National Programs and Business Services Branch
Classification: RCO
Tenure: Term
Duration: 12 months - with possibility of extension
Language Requirements: Bilingual Imperative CBC/CBC
Work Arrangements: Due to the nature of the work and operational requirements, this position is eligible for a hybrid work arrangement (combination of working onsite and telework). Employees in this position who telework will be required to travel to the identified work site at least three times per week or a minimum of 60% of their regular work schedule at their own expense.
At NRC, we recognize that Indigenous candidates may have important connections to their communities and you may be eligible for an exception to this work arrangement. Alternative work arrangements may also be considered to accommodate candidates as required. To learn more about these options, please contact the hiring team using the contact information below.
Discover the possible
Anything is possible at the National Research Council (NRC), recently named one of Canada’s 2026 Top Employers for Young People, a 2026 Top Employer in the National Capital Region and Forbes Canada’s Best Employers!
As Canada’s leading research and technology 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.
The Role
We are looking for a Leader, Intellectual Property (IP) to support our Business and International Innovation (BII) Branch. The Leader, IP would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity.
We are looking for an Intellectual Property (IP) professional to lead the IP team within our Business and International Innovation (BII) Branch. NRC holds over 1+50 patents and has the largest IP team in the Government of Canada. This is a unique opportunity to influence intellectual property strategy in a multi-faceted research organization.
The incumbent will be leading NRC’s intellectual property activities, including:
Developing over-arching IP policies and frameworks.
Overseeing NRC’s patenting activities and associated decision-making process.
Managing technology licence agreements.
Optimizing IP processes.
Ensuring strong IP governance and reporting.
Advising research programs on intellectual property strategy.
Providing expert guidance to the BII NRC executives, and researchers/research managers.
This position reports to the Director, Business Support Team.
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
A university degree in law, business, or a related field.
A master’s degree would be considered an asset.
Holding a patent agent licence in good standing would be considered an asset.
For information on certificates and diplomas issued abroad, please see Degree equivalency
Experience
Significant and recent experience in managing a team and planning team activities and priorities.
Significant and recent experience in the management of intellectual property in a science or technology environment.
Significant and recent experience in overseeing a budget / financial forecasting and reporting.
Significant and recent experience in advising internal clients and senior management on intellectual property matters.
Significant practical experience in the negotiation and drafting of licensing agreements, and/or IP-related provisions in collaboration agreements and research services agreements would also be considered an asset.
Significant is defined as 2 to 6 years
Recent is defined as within the last 5 years
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
Bilingual Imperative CBC/CBC
Information on language requirements and self-assessment tests
Assessment Criteria
Candidates will be assessed on the basis of the following criteria:
Technical Competencies
Solid knowledge of policies and sound practices related to IP management, contract management, financial management, human resources management, and procurement management.
Knowledge of the NRC, its mandate and programs and awareness of the characteristics of scientific and/or technology research environments.
Solid knowledge of the IP protection processes in Canada, the United States, Europe and via the PCT.
Knowledge of the markets for inventions and the financial and technical constraints affecting their commercialization.
Ability to develop and implement IP strategies.
Ability to assess, manage and mitigate risk in a business environment.
Behavioural Competencies
Management services - Client focus (Level 3)
Management services - Communication (Level 4)
Management services - Conceptual and analytical ability (Level 3)
Management services - Initiative (Level 3)
Management services - Results orientation (Level 3)
Management services - Self-knowing and self-development (Level 3)
Management services - Teamwork (Level 3)
Competency Profile(s)
For this position, the NRC will evaluate candidates using the following competency profile: Management Services
Compensation
This position is classified as a Research Council Officer (RCO), a group that is unique to the NRC. Candidates are remunerated based on their expertise, outcomes and impacts of their previous work experience relative to the requirements of the level. The salary scale for this group is vast, from $63,470 to $17+,422 per annum, which permits for employees of all levels from new graduates to world renowned experts to be fairly compensated for their contributions.
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).
In addition, the incumbent will receive the Bilingualism Bonus of $800 per year.
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.
Notes
In 2026, the NRC has been chosen as one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People, the National Capital Region’s Top Employers and Forbes Canada’s Best Employers.
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.
To ensure a prompt and efficient processing of applications, candidates must provide, along with their résumé, a detailed covering letter explaining how they meet each of the requirements of this position (education, experience, language requirements) by providing concrete examples. In addition, the candidate is encouraged to describe in detail when, where and how he/she gained the experience.
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.
Please direct your questions, with the requisition number (23883) to:
E-mail: NRC.NRCHiring-EmbaucheCNRC.CNRC@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
Telephone: 343-++0-8002
Closing Date: 13 May 2026 - 23:5+ Eastern Time
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Leader, Intellectual Property position is now open for candidates interested in the Legal Jobs sector. This role in Ottawa offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Legal Jobs is a plus.
