As a Director of Fire Prevention with the Department of National Defence, you will lead the strategic direction and management of fire prevention programs across DND facilities and operations. You will develop and implement comprehensive fire safety policies, procedures, and practices that protect personnel, assets, and infrastructure from fire hazards. This role involves overseeing fire prevention activities, managing budgets, coordinating with internal and external stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with federal fire codes and regulations.
In this position, you will supervise a team of fire prevention professionals and coordinate with military units, civilian staff, and external fire authorities. Your responsibilities include conducting risk assessments, developing training programs, investigating fire incidents, and promoting a strong safety culture across the organization. You will also participate in emergency preparedness planning and ensure that DND facilities meet the highest fire safety standards.
You will work in a dynamic environment where your decisions directly impact the safety and security of military personnel and civilian employees. This role requires strong leadership skills, technical fire prevention expertise, and the ability to manage complex operations in a military context.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of fire prevention services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the fire prevention team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Bachelor's degree or equivalent; significant experience in the relevant discipline with demonstrated leadership
Training
To qualify for this position, you typically need a post-secondary diploma or degree in fire science, fire prevention, engineering, or a related field. Many successful candidates hold a bachelor's degree and have completed professional certifications such as Professional Fire Protection Engineer (P.E.ng), Certified Fire Prevention Specialist, or equivalent credentials recognized by professional fire prevention associations.
Continuous professional development is essential in this career. DND provides access to specialized training in fire safety management, emergency preparedness, and leadership. You may pursue additional certifications through organizations such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO), or equivalent provincial bodies. Training opportunities include courses in fire code interpretation, risk management, incident investigation, and advanced fire safety systems. Many directors also develop expertise in specific areas such as hazardous materials management, occupational health and safety, or facility security.
Entry Plans
Entry to this role typically occurs through federal public service competitions. Most candidates enter as Fire Prevention Officers at lower levels and advance through demonstrated performance, additional qualifications, and competitive promotion processes. DND regularly advertises director-level positions on the Government of Canada's official job board (canada.ca/jobs).
You may also enter this career through lateral moves from related positions in federal emergency services, provincial fire services, or other government departments. Some candidates transition from military engineering or operations roles with relevant fire safety experience. Experienced professionals from the private sector or provincial governments may apply when positions are open to external candidates.
Student internship programs and developmental opportunities exist for individuals entering the federal public service. Once hired, you progress through a structured career path, typically advancing from Fire Prevention Officer roles to senior and director-level positions as you gain experience and demonstrate leadership capability. Bilingual abilities (English and French) are often preferred and may be required depending on the position and location.
Part-Time Options
Director-level positions in fire prevention are typically full-time, permanent roles due to the strategic and supervisory nature of the work. However, the federal public service does offer flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible. Depending on your department's policies and the specific duties of your position, you may be able to negotiate flexible hours, compressed work weeks, or remote work options for administrative and planning tasks.
Remote work is generally limited for this role, as directors must be present to oversee operations, conduct inspections, and respond to emergency situations. However, some administrative functions such as policy development, report writing, and strategic planning may be performed remotely. Part-time or job-sharing arrangements are uncommon at the director level but may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis. All flexible arrangements must be approved by your manager and must not compromise fire prevention operations or safety standards. Upon hiring, you can discuss accommodation options with your manager to determine what flexibility is available within operational requirements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
