Software Tests Specialist (CF-18 Fighter)

CAE; Mirabel; Hybrid; CAD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Pension plan

Employee stock purchase plan

Career development opportunities

Job summary

CAE in Mirabel, Canada, seeks a Test Project Engineer to support onboard software for the CF-18 fighter aircraft. You will collaborate with clients to develop technical requirements and run comprehensive test activities across benches, simulators, and aircraft.

The role involves identifying anomalies, supporting software qualification, and helping design improvements for mission, armament, and communication control units.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering.
• 0–2 years of professional experience.
• Programming in C and C++.
• Ability to communicate in English and French.
• Eligible for registration in the Controlled Goods Program.
• Able to obtain and maintain Government of Canada Reliability Status and Level 2 security clearance.
• Must be able to commute to Mirabel; a car is required.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a Test Project Engineer for onboard software for the CF-18.
• Develop technical requirements with the client.
• Develop test plans and write procedures.
• Execute tests on avionics benches, simulators, and aircraft.
• Identify anomalies and support software qualification.
• Support testing improvements for three onboard software apps: mission, armament, and COM control unit.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including CF-18 pilots.
• On-site presence in Mirabel 2–3 days/week during exercises.

Skills

C/C++ programming

Team collaboration

Bilingual English/French

Security clearance eligibility

CF-18 familiarity

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Job description

Our engineers are the technical visionaries behind our innovative solutions. Globally recognized for delivering cutting-edge systems, you’ll tackle complex challenges, collaborate across functions, and lead advancements that shape our industry. Supported by a culture of flexibility, growth, and innovation, join us to create a lasting legacy in safety and simulation.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Serve as a Test Project Engineer supporting onboard software applications for the CF-18 fighter aircraft.
• Develop technical requirements in collaboration with the client.
• Develop test plans and write/code test procedures.
• Execute tests on avionics benches, integrated benches, full simulators, and aircraft.
• Identify, document, and report anomalies and support software qualification prior to deployment to the CF-18 fleet.
• Support testing improvements and/or the design of new functionality for three onboard software applications: the mission computer, armament computer, and communication control unit.
• Contribute to projects aimed at improving the operational effectiveness of the CF-18, including:
  • Improving performance indicators for missiles and new GPS- and LASER-guided bombs.
  • Developing GPS navigation capabilities.
  • Integrating new infrared detection capabilities.
  • Integrating a new MIDS data transmission system.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and operational specialists, including CF-18 pilots.
• May support the Canadian Armed Forces on site during flight exercises, such as Bold Quest and Maple Flag.
• Work primarily in Mirabel (presence onsite required 2-3 times/week)

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering.
• 0–2 years of professional experience.
• Programming experience with C and C++.
• Ability to work effectively within a team and collaborate with multidisciplinary groups.
• Ability to communicate on technical subjects in both English and French, verbally and in writing.
• Must be eligible for registration in the Controlled Goods Program.
• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain Government of Canada Reliability Status and Level 2 (Secret) security clearance.
• Ability to commute to the primary work location in Mirabel, which is not accessible by public transportation. A car is required.

Preferred Qualifications

• C# programming experience.
• Knowledge of aeronautics, avionics, and/or testing.
• Experience developing, integrating, and/or performing real-time testing of embedded software.
• Knowledge of commercial or military aircraft system operations, avionics systems, testing procedures, Integrated Test Facilities, and/or simulators.

Benefits

• Company benefits plan
• Pension plan
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Career development opportunities within a global organization
• Hybrid work model
• Comprehensive health and wellness programs

About CAE

At CAE, our mission is clear: to help make the world a safer place. For nearly 80 years, we’ve driven innovation in simulation, training, and mission readiness to support critical operations worldwide. By leveraging advanced technologies, we empower our customers to operate smarter, faster, and more sustainably. Join a purpose-driven organization where bold ideas are encouraged, collaboration drives progress, and your growth fuels our shared success.

Position Type

Regular

Equal Opportunity & Accommodations

CAE is committed to providing equal opportunities to all applicants, regardless of race, nationality, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, neurodiversity, veteran status, age, or other characteristics protected by law. We encourage applicants who may not meet every qualification to apply. Reasonable accommodations are available—contact your recruiter or email [e-mail] if needed.

Data Privacy

Privacy Statement | CAE

As part of our process, we may use AI‑supported tools to help review applications, with human decision‑making at every step. CAE thanks all applicants for their interest. However, only those whose background and experience match the requirements of the role will be contacted.