Jobs

Engineering activities in the atmospheric and hydrologic program focus on weather observation and prediction, ice movement and marine applications, hydrometry and hydrology.

Engineers are drawn from such diverse fields as civil engineering in water resources, hydrology and hydraulics; chemical engineering for air and water quality; and electrical and mechanical engineering for design of data acquisition systems.

Much of our work is based on the acquisition of environmental data. Observation of physical parameters has always been carried out by people, but this work is gradually being automated. Our engineers work with meteorologists, hydrologists, research scientists, computer specialists, technicians and manufacturers to design, build, install and troubleshoot these new systems.

We develop mathematical models of watershed systems and the way they respond to policy changes for control dam operations. We develop models of water supply variations arising from climate variability and hydrologic forecasts. We engage in flood forecasting and conduct studies of the dynamics and societal problems of the land-water interface.

Other engineering activities include the development of algorithms for measuring and processing meteorological and hydrologic data. This requires knowledge of hydrology, meteorology, physics and digital signal processing for the development and validation processes. Similarly, the configuration and implementation of Doppler weather radar systems requires knowledge of radar electronics and signal processing as well as atmospheric physics.

Engineers in the atmospheric sciences

We are the technology leaders in Canadian automated weather data acquisition systems and instrumentation. We are involved in the design or development of embedded microcontrollers and microprocessors for the Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS), gate array designs for downloadable hardware configurations, next generation AWOS architectures and algorithms, and satellite virtual channels for real-time data collection.

We own and operate Canada's national weather radar network. We have just embarked upon a major expansion and upgrade to the network that is being conducted largely by staff engineers and technicians. This approach uses existing specialized expertise and enhances our in-house capability to support the ongoing operation and development of the radar network.

Our engineers lead system design, procurement, and other activities related to implementing systems in our data acquisition networks and support their operation and development.

Engineers in hydrology

Hydrologic engineers specialize in the science of water properties, distribution, and circulation. They may be involved in assessing and interpreting the data collected from monitoring programs in order to plan networks; modelling to produce information at ungauged sites; detecting trends in the amount and general distribution of Canada's freshwater resources; developing tools and systems for data interpretation and prediction to support decision-making; or developing data products to meet client needs.

The hydrometric component (measurement of surface water and sediment quantity) is conducted under the auspices of the Water Survey of Canada (WSC). Hydrometric engineering involves the evaluation, planning and design of gauging networks; the design, evaluation, and testing of data acquisition and handling systems (i.e. environmental monitoring technology, data communication systems, computer software for data collection, processing, quality assurance and quality control, and data dissemination); the establishment of standard methodologies; and the operation and management of the hydrometric network.

The work of the hydrologic program requires engineers to work on multidisciplinary teams to meet task and program objectives. There is frequent contact with experts in other levels of government and in the private sector, both nationally and internationally. For example, they may be involved in studies with the United States in support of International Joint Commission (IJC) Control Boards regarding the apportionment of water between the two countries. They may be part of a study group or committee of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) to address a particular hydrometric or hydrological issue of international interest. They may provide leadership and guidance to private sector environmental technology companies to develop products and services that meet the needs of the hydrologic program.

Getting experience on the job

New engineers spend time initially in the operational components of the atmospheric or hydrologic programs to gain understanding of the purpose, role and issues. This may include operating a data monitoring network, designing quality assurance and quality control procedures, or troubleshooting of problem instrumentation. Once an experience base is established, engineers may then move into positions of either broader or more specialized focus, with increased responsibilities.

New engineers supporting the atmospheric program first spend time supporting the operational network to gain experience in the calibration, installation and usage of data relevant to specific instrumentation. Engineers then participate in procurement contracts to build a familiarity with current manufacturing and testing practices, or in development projects to assist in the design and specification of newer systems for the future.

New engineers in the hydrology program spend one to two years in the field to gain exposure to water monitoring operations, water planning and management, data interpretation, and special project design.

Some benefits engineering jobs offer

Whatever their specialization, our engineers are involved in technical and practical applications, and science and management. With large systems and networks to work on, much of the work is technically challenging and on the leading edge.

We offer empowerment, flexibility, and variety. There are opportunities for rotational assignments; participation in bilateral and international activities, committees and conferences; representation on water control boards; and partnerships with industry and international agencies.

Educational Qualifications

Engineering activities are multidisciplinary, and require graduation with a degree from a recognized university in engineering (mechanical, civil, electrical, systems, chemical, aeronautical, or another relevant engineering specialty, such as environmental or water resources).

Some of our employees have dual credentials in engineering, meteorology, or other atmospheric or environmental sciences. A background in areas such as climate, meteorology, hydrology, statistics, mapping (including geographical information systems - GIS), surveying, open channel hydraulics, numerical methods, computer modelling techniques, land use geography, geology and hydrogeology would be valuable. A management degree or training would also be an asset.

Occupational Certification

You must be eligible for certification as a professional engineer in Canada.

Other Career Options

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