Unlocking Career Pathways at Carleton University
Carleton University, nestled in the heart of Ottawa, Canada's capital, stands as a beacon for ambitious professionals in higher education. Known for its innovative research and dynamic teaching environment, the university consistently ranks among top employers, earning a spot in Canada's Top 100 Employers for 2025 for the third straight year. With a vibrant community of over 31,000 students and a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), Carleton offers a range of Carleton University jobs that appeal to faculty, staff, researchers, and students alike. Whether you're eyeing tenure-track roles or administrative positions, opportunities here blend intellectual rigor with real-world impact, especially in fields like engineering, public policy, and computer science.
The job market at Carleton reflects broader Canadian higher education trends, where demand for specialized skills in STEM and sustainability drives hiring. Recent federal job cuts in Ottawa have tightened the student employment landscape, yet the university remains proactive with co-op programs and career fairs to bridge gaps. This creates a supportive ecosystem for career growth amid economic shifts.
Faculty and Tenure-Track Positions: Leading Research and Teaching
Faculty roles at Carleton University represent the core of its academic mission, with current openings emphasizing engineering, arts, and sciences. As of early 2026, there are approximately 12 active academic postings, including tenure-track Assistant or Associate Professor positions in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (Aerospace focus). These roles require a PhD and align with Canada's research chair initiatives, offering stability and funding for groundbreaking work.
Other highlights include a Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Geography and Environmental Studies (Physical Geography – Applied Atmospheric Sciences), with a deadline of November 17, 2025, and an Assistant Professor in Psychology (Developmental). Teaching stream positions, like Lecturer/Assistant Professor in Film Studies or History and Theory of Architecture, cater to educators passionate about pedagogy. Salaries for faculty members average around $141,000 to $177,000 annually, based on Ontario's Sunshine List disclosures, with top earners exceeding $220,000.
- PhD required; postdoctoral experience preferred for research chairs.
- Emphasis on EDI: Applications from underrepresented groups prioritized.
- Start dates flexible, often July 1, 2026.
Check the official academic postings page for updates.
Research and Postdoctoral Fellowships: Fueling Innovation
Carleton's research ecosystem thrives on postdoctoral fellows and specialized researchers. A prime example is the Post-Doctoral Fellow position in the Drake Stormwater Research Group, focusing on environmental engineering solutions, closing January 5, 2026. These roles often come with Canada Research Chairs (CRCs), like Tier 1 in Mechatronics and Robotics, providing up to $10 million over seven years for transformative projects.
Postdocs typically earn $50,000–$70,000 annually, with opportunities for grants and collaborations across Ottawa's innovation hub, including government labs. The university's focus on applied research in AI, sustainability, and health sciences positions these jobs as launchpads for academic careers.
Administrative and Staff Roles: Supporting the Mission
Staff positions at Carleton University span administration, IT, EDI, and operations, accessible via the NJOYN portal. Recent listings include Senior Academic Evaluation Officer, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Coordinator, and Academic Research Safety Manager. With around 23 open roles noted recently, these jobs offer stability in Canada's capital region.
Key categories: Administrative Management, IT Services, Library Support. Salaries vary; CUPE 2424 staff saw increases in 2025, with scales from entry-level ~$45,000 to senior ~$100,000+. EDI roles underscore Carleton's commitment to inclusive workplaces.
| Role Example | Department | Closing Date |
|---|---|---|
| Senior Academic Evaluation Officer | Administrative | Open |
| Equity Coordinator | EDI | Open |
| Research Safety Manager | Research | Open |
Visit NJOYN for staff jobs.
Student Employment and Co-op Programs: Building Experience
For students, Carleton University jobs include part-time, off-campus, and residence roles via MySuccess in Carleton360. Graduate co-op placements enhance career prospects, with fairs like the Winter Career & Networking Fair (Feb 4, 2026) connecting 50+ employers. Amid Ottawa's youth unemployment at 13.3%, these programs provide crucial pipelines.
- International Student Ambassadors: Paid roles for 2026-27.
- Residence jobs: Open summer 2026.
- Co-op: Boosts employability in competitive markets.
Navigating the Application Process Step-by-Step
Applying for Carleton University jobs is streamlined. For staff: Create NJOYN profile, upload resume, apply directly. Academics submit via Deputy Provost site with CV, cover letter, references. Students use MySuccess.
- Review postings on carleton.ca/hr/career-opportunities.
- Tailor application to EDI values.
- Prepare for interviews emphasizing research/teaching fit.
- Follow up; only shortlisted contacted.
Detailed guides at staff application page.
Competitive Benefits and Perks
Carleton's package includes health/dental, pension, EAP, travel assistance, mental health apps, and employee discounts (CAA, etc.). Family benefits extend to tuition remission for dependents. As a Top 100 Employer, it prioritizes wellness and work-life balance.
Career Development and Professional Growth
Invest in your future with co-op, workshops, and leadership programs. Recent graduate co-op success stories highlight transitions to full-time roles. EDI training and mentorship foster advancement.
Hiring Trends and Market Insights
Engineering dominates 2026 postings, reflecting national STEM needs. Faculty mean salary rose 12% to $177,120 in 2025. Youth market challenges persist, but Carleton's fairs mitigate.
Photo by Erik Mclean on Unsplash
Future Outlook: Growth in Canada's Capital
With CRCs and infrastructure investments, Carleton University jobs will expand in AI, sustainability. Ottawa's policy hub amplifies opportunities. Tailor your application today for a rewarding career.
