Build Extraordinary Test Facilities. Lead Incredible Installations. Join MDS.
For over three decades, MDS has maintained its unrivaled position as a global leader in Gas Turbine Engine Solutions, serving prestigious companies worldwide. At MDS, we design and build some of the world’s most advanced test facilities for gas turbine engines — from typical 30,000 lb gas turbine engine test facilities to highly specialized aero-acoustic products, test facility equipment, and other large-scale aviation installations. You can explore examples on the MDS website under our Aviation Project Portfolios.
We’re looking for a hands-on, solutions-driven Mechanical Test Systems Integrator / Site Manager who enjoys working with people just as much as they enjoy working with large mechanical systems. This is a full-time permanent role.
If you thrive in dynamic environments, love coordinating multiple moving parts, and take pride in watching a complex project come to life on site — this role is for you.
You don’t need to live in Ottawa to succeed in this role — your home base can be anywhere. You may only need to visit our Ottawa office occasionally. Because our projects span the globe, international travel (50–80%) will be required.
What You’ll Do
As our on-site installation lead, you’ll be at the heart of the action. Your work will include:
-
Guiding the day-to-day installation of major mechanical systems — from process piping and skids to specialty equipment requiring heavy lifts.
-
Coordinating several subtrades and ensuring everyone is aligned with drawings, codes, standards, and safety expectations.
-
Reviewing drawings, schematics, P&IDs, and resolving technical issues with confidence.
-
Keeping the project running smoothly by monitoring out-of-scope work, reviewing Change Orders, and supporting contract reviews.
-
Building and maintaining the site schedule so the entire team knows what’s happening next.
-
Leading health & safety practices on site, including JSAs, orientations, and toolbox talks.
-
Overseeing commissioning activities — from dry runs to client-witnessed ATPs.
-
Managing redline drawings, documentation, client signoffs, and daily site reports.
-
Collaborating closely with engineering teams and installation suppliers to make sure the final product meets MDS and client expectations.
Leadership on Site
You’ll be a key point of contact for MDS staff, subcontractors, and consultants. This includes:
-
Providing on-site supervision and guidance
-
Approving timesheets and supporting administrative needs
-
Coordinating both internal and third-party personnel
Who You Are
-
You have a degree or diploma in a technical field (engineering preferred, but equivalent experience works too).
-
You bring 10+ years of hands-on site management experience in industrial environments.
-
You know how to manage installation and commissioning activities and can confidently lead subcontractors and crews.
-
You’re comfortable preparing method statements, schedules, budgets, and risk assessments.
-
You’re organized, communicate well, and tackle problems with a calm, practical mindset.
-
You understand industrial health & safety rules and have experience with lifting operations.
-
You’re comfortable with project-management software and technology.
Additional Details
-
Flexibility with working hours is important — site demands can vary.
-
International travel (50–80%) may be required.
-
English fluency is essential; a second language is an asset.
-
You don’t need to live in Ottawa to succeed in this role — your home base can be anywhere. You may only need to visit our Ottawa office occasionally. Because our projects span the globe, international travel (50–80%) will be required.
What's in it for you?
We believe in and encourage open and transparent communication across the organization so every year we invite our people to a bi-annual Town Hall Meeting.
We are passionate about our people, business, customers and community so we demonstrate the utmost care, respect and accountability for everything we do.
No matter who you are or where you’re from, we welcome new ideas and fresh perspectives. We believe in teamwork. We’re better, together.
On top of that, MDS offers the following:
-
Canada’s Best Managed companies (Platinum member)
-
Employee bonus program
-
Defined Contribution Pension Plan
-
100% employer-paid annual sick leave, health and dental premiums, and life, accidental death, and short-term disability insurance.
-
Health Spending Account (for some medical expenses that aren’t covered under provincial plans or our standard insurance plan)
-
Lumino Virtual Health Care
-
Employee assistance program
-
Maternity and parental leave top-up
-
Fitness Membership Reimbursement
-
Positive and flexible work environment
-
Opportunity for career advancement
-
Strong focus on learning and development
-
Company events including family holiday party, employee events, executive - led coffee talks, team gatherings, and so much more
-
Inclusive workforce
The reference target total cash compensation range for this position, inclusive of annual base salary and target variable compensation, is between $85,000 and $130,000 CAD annually. The range displayed on this job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position across all Canada locations.Actual compensation within this range will be determined by job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. This role also includes additional comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, financial security, and work-life balance.
MDS is an equal opportunity employer. MDS does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of age, race, color, mental or physical disability, religion, sex or national origin or ethnic origin.
MDS Aero Support is committed to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Accommodations are available upon request at any stage of the hiring process.
We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those candidates who meet or exceed our requirements, are legally eligible to work in Canada, are eligible for Controlled Goods, and do not require sponsorship will be contacted.
Telephone calls not accepted from candidates or agencies.
