Section Manager, Software Design

Position: Section Manager, Software Design Engineering
Location: 393 University Ave, Toronto, ON
On-Site: Hybrid (2 - 3 days a week)
Job Type: Fulltime Permanent
Salary Range: 130,000 - 165,000 (+benefits, RRSP)
Department: Design & Engineering Services (DES)
Reports to: Director, Electrical, Control, Computer Engineering and Human Factors (EIC)
Number Required: 1

General Accountabilities

• Provide technical leadership and governance across:
• Software development for safety and non-safety systems
• Industrial control system architecture and integration (PLC, DCS, ICS)
• Digital I&C platforms and plant computer systems
• Human-machine interfaces (HMI)
• Software categorization, qualification, and lifecycle management
• Software verification and validation (V&V)
• Vendor integration, factory acceptance testing (FAT), commissioning, and lifecycle support
• Ensure seamless integration with existing plant systems and large-scale I/O environments
• Oversee the full engineering lifecycle, from conceptual and preliminary design through detailed design and implementation
• Establish and maintain cybersecurity controls for nuclear digital assets and OT environments
• Plan and manage resources, budgets, and schedules for software engineering projects
• Lead proposal development and preparation of client bids
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, fostering a client-focused delivery culture
• Ensure all engineering changes comply with client Engineering Change Control (ECC) processes (e.g., OPG, Bruce Power)
• Drive cross-disciplinary integration and collaboration across engineering teams
• Provide project oversight to ensure delivery on scope, schedule, cost, and quality objectives
• Lead team performance management, coaching, and professional development
• Support resource planning, prioritization, and execution strategies across programs
• Champion quality assurance and continuous improvement through Human Performance (HU) tools and best practices
• Working knowledge of CSA N286 management system requirements, CSA N290.14 software engineering for safety-related systems, CNSC REGDOC2.1.1 management systems and software QA expectations, NQA-1, IEC 62645 cybersecurity standard, and client-specific nuclear station procedures
• Identify opportunities to expand and integrate Kinectrics service offerings
• Ensure adherence to quality processes and consistent application of best practices

Specific Accountabilities

Deliver comprehensive engineering services, including design, technical problem-solving, and root cause analysis of plant operating issues. Apply a strong understanding of asset investment considerations to advise clients on engineering risks, trade-offs, and business impacts of alternative solutions.

Provide software engineering expertise for nuclear and industrial facilities across the following areas:

• Design, installation, and commissioning of digital control systems, including software categorization and qualification
• Execution of specialized analyses such as Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA)
• Management of reverse engineering and third-party dedication for obsolete digital equipment
• Development and implementation of engineering changes in accordance with established Engineering Change Control (ECC) processes
• Software design and analysis for nuclear and industrial plant systems
• Condition and performance assessments of digital systems and cybersecurity assets
• Technical assessments, troubleshooting, and engineering support for refurbishment and operating (capital) projects
• Collaboration with utilities, vendors, and construction/procurement partners across all project phases - from concept through implementation and close-out
• Effective participation in multidisciplinary project teams to deliver integrated engineering solutions
• Continuous advancement of technical knowledge in software engineering and digital control systems

Direct Outputs

• Lead staffing and resourcing decisions, including work planning, scheduling, and assignment of team members
• Execute core people management responsibilities, including hiring, performance management, compensation decisions, and staff development
• Build and sustain strong client relationships while supporting business development and service growth
• Develop and enhance service offerings through technical capability development and client engagement
• Recruit, mentor, and retain specialized software engineering expertise within the team
• Translate client needs into actionable programs, projects, and technical proposals
• Deliver projects and service contracts in line with scope, schedule, effort, and quality commitments
• Ensure consistent application of quality processes and engineering best practices
• Identify opportunities to integrate and expand Kinectrics’ service offerings across business lines

What You Need to Succeed

• Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Electrical, Computer, or related Engineering discipline
• 7–10+ years of experience in software design engineering in nuclear or other safety-critical, highly regulated industries
• 3+ years of leadership experience managing software and/or computer engineering teams
• Proven expertise in industrial control systems and plant networks (PLC, DCS, SCADA)
• Experience in preparing and reviewing design documentation across all stages of SDLC for CAT I-IV software in accordance with CSA N290.14
• Strong understanding of nuclear power plant design, operation, and modernization programs, including control system upgrades
• Thorough knowledge of Engineering Change Control (ECC) processes in nuclear environments
• Hands-on experience with software engineering lifecycle practices, including configuration management and verification & validation (V&V)
• Demonstrated experience delivering complex engineering projects and leading multidisciplinary teams
• Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) designation in Ontario