About AECL

Employment with AECL

AECL has a small and expert-based workforce focused on enabling nuclear science and technology and managing the Government of Canada’s radioactive waste and decommissioning responsibilities. Part of our work involves overseeing the activities of Canadian Nuclear Laboratories which manage and operate our sites on our behalf under a Government-owned, Contractor-operated model. Our values of teamwork, stewardship, integrity, respect, accountability and safety are what drive everything we do.

With a team of just under 50 individuals, our people are what makes AECL a success. We see our employees as our most valuable resource and as a result are committed to building a diverse work environment with meaningful career opportunities. We employ people in a wide range of roles from specialists in nuclear science and technology and decommissioning through to people in business functions such as HR, finance, contracts and administration.

Why Work at AECL?

As an inclusive organization, AECL offers equal access to employment, training and development, as well as meaningful work and career opportunities. We support and promote ongoing education and provide learning, training and mentorship opportunities.

For example every member of staff has a personal development plan which is discussed regularly with their manager, not just at review time! Professional development is encouraged, including on-the-job training and formal learning opportunities. As a small team, ensuring that we have the skills for the future is important to us. As such our succession plan helps identify training needs and mentorship opportunities for people to grow within our organization.

We have a collaborative culture and frequently work together to improve our workplace. Our weekly all staff meetings ensure that we are all up to date with the key issues and items that people are working on.

We also recognize the importance of a healthy workplace and promote wellness and work-life balance, and have options for people to work flexibly.

We aim to engage, attract and retain the best possible employees from Canada and across the world, and offer a comprehensive benefits package.

“One of the things I like the most about working for AECL is that the company has embraced technology in such a way that we can become portable and have the capability to work away from the office on occasion. This flexibility helps to foster a healthy work-life balance. I would like to mention that the use of technology has also resulted in a nearly paperless office which results in a smaller office footprint and is better for the environment.”

David Kryschuk,

Contract Analyst

“I’m a student on a work term placement in the Communications team at AECL. I’m starting my fourth year at the University of Ottawa as an English major, and this is my third COOP work term placement.

Coming here as a student with no knowledge of the atomic nuclear energy industry, I’ve already learned so much. The open environment and team meetings have given me the opportunity to observe the work going on around me, and ask questions when I’m confused.

With the friendly team and the constant learning opportunities I’m provided with on a daily basis, I’m certain that this work term will prove to be invaluable.”

Nicole Moyana,

Student

“Having worked in both the private and public sector, working at AECL is the best of both world. In a small, dynamic environment, the team works closely together and leverages each other’s unique expertise and background. Our organization structure allows for accessibility and equality among all levels. On an individual level, the organization has allowed me to optimize my performance through the tools it has implemented to share information, collaborate, and access the work environment.”

Karen Huynh,

Federal Science and Technology Manager

“As part of the nucleargraduate scheme in the UK, I was given the opportunity to go to Canada for a placement with AECL, in the Environmental Stewardship team. Everyone I met was welcoming and supportive. My team and colleagues regularly took the time to offer guidance and advice. My manager was fabulous at supporting my development by giving me the chance to learn about world leading decommissioning techniques and their implementation in Canada.

Working at AECL helped me understand how an enthusiastic team works together. The result is a highly experienced unit collaborating to achieve the best results possible for Canada.”

Evan Bolle-Jones

Employment opportunities

Director, Communications & Government Reporting

AECL is currently looking for a Director, Communications & Government Reporting (term position up to one (1) year) based out of our Ottawa or Chalk River, Ontario office location.

Reporting to the Vice-President, Communications and Public Affairs, the Director is responsible for managing AECL’s internal and external communications, including with media, communities, Indigenous communities and other stakeholders, and for providing contractual oversight of CNL’s communication activities.

Apply here.

Director, Safety Management & Performance Assurance Oversight

AECL is currently seeking to fill the role of Director, Safety Management & Performance Assurance Oversight.

Reporting to the Vice-President, Capital Program, Operations & Security Oversight, the Director will advise on Canadian Nuclear Laboratories’ (CNL’s) operational and engineering matters as well as overall safety and environmental protection management system. This role will also oversee the effective implementation associated with infrastructure to ensure technical, asset care and operational standards are being achieved.

For more information: Director, Safety Management & Performance Assurance Oversight