Student Research Assistant

Employment and Social Development Canada; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 28,000 - 43,000; Part time

Job summary

The Canadian Space Agency offers a part-time student position under the RAP to work on emulator development for SMRT-based Earth observation studies. You will contribute to expanding the emulator for more frequency bands and cryosphere applications, with a focus on validation, documentation, and knowledge transfer.

The role emphasizes independent work, adherence to public sector values, and flexible hybrid work arrangements. Availability January 2027 through April 2027 is required.

Qualifications

• Experience using radiative transfer models to simulate Earth system processes.
• Experience modeling physical or biogeochemical processes of the cryosphere.
• Interest in and general knowledge of Earth science and Earth observation.
• Knowledge of remote sensing techniques.
• Ability to work independently (initiative, self-motivation, autonomy).

Responsibilities

• Support mission scientists in planning and development of satellite-based Earth observation initiatives.
• Contribute to research activities to expand emulator capabilities to additional frequency bands.
• Evaluate emulator performance and develop usage recommendations for future applications.
• Perform implementation activities, validation processes, and prepare technical documentation.
• Develop user guides to ensure knowledge retention and transfer within CSA.

Skills

Radiative transfer models

Cryosphere processes

Earth science knowledge

Remote sensing techniques

Self-motivation

Education

Full-time student in post-secondary institution

Tools

Snow Microwave Radiative Transfer (SMRT) model

Job description

Canadian Space Agency

Salary $25.17 to $38.38 per hour

Level ZZ-STU-00

Who can apply Persons residing in Canada, Canadian citizens, and Permanent residents abroad. To be eligible for this opportunity under the Research Affiliate Program (RAP), you must meet the following criteria:

• Be enrolled as a full-time student in a post-secondary institution;
• Be enrolled in an academic program that requires research as part of your curriculum;
• Meet the minimum age required in the province/territory of work.This includes students with physical or emotional disabilities deemed to have full-time status by their academic institution. Adult students registered in education and retraining programs at the secondary level may also be eligible for student employment programs.Note: Preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who meet the job requirements.

Duties The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) is seeking candidates to support mission scientists involved in the early planning and development of satellite-based Earth observation initiatives. These satellite missions focus on various aspects of the Earth as an interconnected system.The student will contribute to research activities aimed at optimizing and adapting an existing emulator based on the Snow Microwave Radiative Transfer (SMRT) model. The objective of the project is to expand the emulator’s capabilities so that it can be applied to additional frequency bands and a broader range of cryosphere-related applications (snow cover, ice, etc.), particularly in support of ongoing mission studies and mission concepts currently under consideration at the Canadian Space Agency.The student will also participate in evaluating the emulator’s performance, analyzing the results obtained, and developing recommendations for its use in future Earth observation applications. Tasks will include implementation activities, validation processes, preparation of technical documentation, and the development of user guides to ensure knowledge retention and effective knowledge transfer within the organization.

Work environment Depending on the nature of the work required by the position and operational needs, hybrid and flexible work arrangements—such as a combination of on-site work and telework, as well as compressed work schedules—may be offered.
In line with current direction from the Treasury Board Secretariat, the Canadian Space Agency is currently implementing a hybrid work model. Employees are required to work on-site at least four days per week, or the equivalent of 80% of their regular schedule, in accordance with the agreement to be discussed with their supervisor. Depending on the role, some positions could require full-time on-site presence. These arrangements are subject to change based on evolving government direction and organizational needs. Employees are required to comply with the Direction on prescribed presence in the workplace, as well as any subsequent updates.

Intent of the process We intend to offer a part time student work opportunity during the Winter 2027 semester.This process could serve to meet similar needs for opportunities during Summer 2027 (full time) and Fall 2027 (part time).

Positions to be filled 1

Important messages The student must be available to work part time from January 4 to April 23, 2027.The masculine gender is used in this posting solely to simplify the text and facilitate reading. This opportunity is offered to all individuals, regardless of gender identity.Values and Ethics | Conflicts of interest
Recognizing and adhering to the Values and Ethics Code for the Public Sector is a condition of employment for all federal public servants, including employees of the Canadian Space Agency. They are required to act impartially and to avoid any real, apparent, or potential conflicts of interest, particularly in relation to employment or external activities, gifts, preferential treatment, or post-employment situations.
Values and Ethics Code for the Public Sector- Canada.ca
Directive on Conflict of Interest- Canada.caEvery person has the right to participate in an appointment process in the official language(s) of their choice.As part of this selection process, you will be required to answer screening questions related to the essential qualifications and asset qualifications in terms of education and experience. For each question pertaining to experience, you must indicate when, where, and how you meet the criteria using concrete examples. Your responses to the screening questions will serve as the primary source of information for assessing your education and experience; your résumé will be used to validate the information provided in your responses. Any response such as “Please refer to my résumé” or lack of detail in your answers may result in the rejection of your application.A variety of assessment methods can be used, such as but not limited to an interview, exam, achievement record, performance appraisals or references.You will have to provide proof of education later during the process.

• Experience using radiative transfer models to simulate Earth system processes
• Experience modeling physical or biogeochemical processes of the cryosphere
• Interest in and general knowledge of Earth science and Earth observation
• Knowledge of remote sensing techniques
• Ability to work independently (initiative, self-motivation, autonomy)

Language requirements (essential for the job)

May be applied / assessed at a later date

• Experience using the Snow Microwave Radiative Transfer (SMRT) model
• Experience modeling snow or ice properties and processes

Our commitment

We're committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment, starting with the hiring process. If you need to be accommodated during any phase of the evaluation process, please contact the hiring organization below to request specialized accommodation. All information received in relation to accommodation will be kept confidential.

The Public Service of Canada is committed to building a skilled and diverse workforce that reflects the population it serves. We promote employment equity and encourage you to self-declare if you belong to one of the designated employment equity groups when you apply.

Preference will be given to veterans first, followed by Canadian citizens and permanent residents, with the exception of jobs located in Nunavut or Yukon. For positions located in Nunavut, qualified Inuit enrolled under the Nunavut Agreement will be appointed first. For positions located in Yukon, qualified Yukon First Nations will be appointed first, followed by qualified Indigenous persons.

• A cover letter-What skills, knowledge and general research orientation can you contribute to the development and application of the SMRT-based emulator?
• Contact information for 2 references
• A list of the courses you have taken as well as any courses that you are taking now, or that you will be taking this academic year

We'd like to thank all those who apply. However, only the people selected for further consideration will be contacted.