Software Developer – Data Link Developer

NAV CANADA; Ottawa; Hybrid; CAD 111,000 - 141,000; Full time

Job summary

A national aviation authority in Canada is searching for a Software Developer specializing in Data Link to develop applications for digital communication in aviation. You will engineer critical software that facilitates safe and efficient navigation by supporting real-time message exchanges between aircraft and air traffic control. The ideal candidate will have experience in C++, a solid foundation in software development practices, and will thrive in a collaborative, hybrid work environment.

Benefits

Challenging, team-oriented work environment

Competitive compensation and flexible benefits

Defined benefit pension plan

Opportunities for growth and development

Diverse and inclusive workforce

Qualifications

• At least 3 years of experience in software development.
• Experience in a multidisciplinary team with detailed design and coding standards.
• Strong technical expertise in C++ and Qt.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain software applications for ATM systems.
• Implement and optimize software to improve communication protocols.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineers and aviation experts.

Skills

Object-oriented software design techniques

C++

Qt

Analytical skills

Team collaboration

Education

Degree in computer, electrical engineering, systems engineering, computer science, or equivalent

Job description

Job Posting Title

Software Developer – Data Link Developer

Job Category

Systems Engineering

Language Requirements

English / Anglais

Flexible Work Agreement Type

Hybrid / Hybride

Posting End Date

2026-01-02

Job Grade

PIPSC-3

Pay Range

$111,451 - $140,007

Job Summary

We're seeking a talented Software Developer to join our team building applications that enable digital communications between aircraft and air traffic controllers. In this role, you'll develop the critical software infrastructure that enables communications such as CPDLC (Controller Pilot Data Link Communication) that reduce workload and provide safe and efficient navigation across Canadian skies.

As a Data Link Software Developer, you'll help architect and implement applications that handle real‑time message exchange between aircraft and ground systems, ensuring reliable, secure communication in some of the world’s most demanding operational environments. Your code will support thousands of flights daily, contributing directly to aviation safety and efficiency.

Job Description

What NAV CANADA offers you:

• Challenging, team-oriented work environment
• Competitive compensation and flexible benefits
• Defined benefit pension plan
• Opportunities for growth and development
• Flexible work arrangements
• Diverse and inclusive workforce

Key Accountabilities:

• Design, develop, and maintain software applications for ATM (Air Traffic Management) and aviation communication systems
• Implement and optimize software to improve ATM (Air Traffic Management) system functionality or data link communication protocols and standards.
• Participate in the development of a centralized communication service to reduce pilot and controller workloads
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams including systems engineers, test engineers, and aviation subject matter experts
• Ensure compliance with aviation industry standards and regulations (ICAO, RTCA, EUROCAE)
• Participate in system integration testing and validation of software
• Troubleshoot and help resolve complex technical issues in operational environments

Job Requirements

Education:

• Degree from a recognized university or community college with an acceptable specialization in computer, electrical engineering, systems engineering, computer science or information systems, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience:

• At least 3 years of experience in software development
• Experience working in a multidisciplinary team of system development professionals with emphasis on detailed design, coding standards, unit & integration testing, implementation and software configuration
• Proficient in object‑oriented software design techniques and applications
• Experience working in a SAFe or Agile team

Knowledge:

• Knowledge of a range of technologies, programming languages, and tools, including hands‑on development, system architecture design, and troubleshooting
• Strong technical expertise in C++ and Qt
• Knowledge of systems development and life‑cycle principles (SDLC), including development, testing, implementation, and support of complex systems
• Working knowledge of debugging, configuration management, and test methodologies
• Understanding of network communications, digital specifications, and protocols such as pub/sub
• Knowledge of designing stateful and stateless applications for container environments

Abilities:

• Good assessment, analytical and testing skills
• Ability to understand customer requirements and feedback, and incorporate that input into software design and development to enhance user satisfaction
• Proven ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, from inception through deployment
• Demonstrated ability to present confidently and clearly to audiences, including stakeholders and senior management

Personal Suitability:

• Positively influence the thinking of others cross‑functionally to ensure goals are met, and conflicts are resolved in an effective manner
• Establish and maintain appropriate interpersonal relationship in dealings with team members, colleagues, and superiors
• Build and maintain relationships internally and externally to gain the support of those who have a significant impact on the success of the organization
• Verbal and written communication skills

Flexible work arrangements:

• This is a hybrid position with a minimum of 3 days per week on site required.

NAV CANADA is committed to building a skilled, diverse workforce reflective of Canadian society. If you do not believe that you match every job requirement listed on this job posting, we still encourage you to apply. NAV CANADA encourages a culture of learning and growth, and recognizes that although some technical skills are mandatory, many others can be taught.

Our Company strives to create an inclusive and barrier‑free selection process and work environment. If you require accommodations during this competition process, please ensure that you inform the interview coordinator or hiring manager of any accommodation measures you may require. NAV CANADA will provide accommodations throughout the recruitment and selection process to applicants with disabilities as required.

The successful candidate must meet the security requirement of the position and be legally able to work in Canada.

We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for next steps will be contacted.