As a Director General in Environmental Science, you will lead and shape the strategic direction of environmental science initiatives across the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces. In this senior executive role, you provide authoritative scientific advice on complex environmental challenges, manage large teams of scientists and technical specialists, and ensure that environmental science priorities align with national defence and security objectives. You will oversee the development and implementation of environmental policies, research programs, and operational standards that protect both military personnel and the broader environment.
Your responsibilities include directing multiple branches or divisions, managing substantial budgets, and representing the department at national and international forums on environmental science matters. You will work closely with other government departments, academic institutions, industry partners, and international organizations to advance environmental science knowledge and ensure Defence and the CAF meet their environmental commitments. This role requires you to balance scientific integrity with operational needs, advocate for evidence-based decision-making at the executive level, and mentor a diverse team of scientists and managers.
You will work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where your decisions influence both military operations and Defence's environmental footprint. The role offers exposure to cutting-edge research areas such as climate change impacts on operations, renewable energy integration, contaminated site remediation, and environmental compliance. You will operate at the intersection of science, policy, and military strategy, making this an ideal opportunity for a senior scientist seeking greater influence over organizational direction and national priorities.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct environmental science research and analysis, Design and execute experiments, studies, or analyses, Publish findings and contribute to scientific knowledge, Provide expert advice to support policy and decision-making
Required Skills
Research design, Statistical analysis, Laboratory techniques, Scientific writing, Data interpretation, Relevant technical skills, Communication, Teamwork, Problem-solving
Typical Education
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
To be competitive for this position, you should hold a university degree in an environmental science discipline (such as environmental science, environmental engineering, chemistry, biology, geology, or related field), typically at the master's level or higher. Many successful candidates hold a PhD in their field of specialization. You must demonstrate extensive experience in environmental science research, policy development, or management, with a minimum of 15 to 20 years of progressive experience in increasingly senior roles.
Professional certifications and memberships are valuable, such as registration as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) or Professional Geoscientist (P.Geo.) through Engineers and Geoscientists Canada, or membership in organizations like the Canadian Environmental Law Association or the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Canada. The Canadian Armed Forces and Department of National Defence also offer executive development programs and security clearance training relevant to this role. Candidates must obtain a Secret or Top Secret security clearance and may require enhanced reliability status.
Continuous professional development is expected at this level. You will engage in senior leadership courses, executive education programs through institutions like the Canadian Forces College or the National Defence College, and ongoing participation in professional conferences and research networks. Language training in English and French may be required or preferred, depending on posting location and organizational needs.
Entry Plans
Entry to this Director General position typically occurs through one of several pathways. The most common route is through a competitive executive staffing process open to Canadian citizens with substantial senior experience in environmental science and proven executive management capability. These competitions are advertised on the Government of Canada's jobs website (jobs.gc.ca) and DND's careers portal.
Candidates may enter through lateral movement from other federal departments, provincial governments, or the private sector, provided they meet Treasury Board classification standards for this executive level. Some candidates progress internally from lower-classified positions (such as Senior Scientist or Manager positions) through merit-based advancement and competitive promotion processes. The Public Service Commission oversees these staffing actions to ensure fairness and transparency.
The DND Civilian Workforce also considers candidates from academic institutions, research organizations, and non-governmental organizations with strong track records in environmental science leadership. Prior experience with the Canadian Armed Forces or Department of National Defence is advantageous but not mandatory. Candidates must be Canadian citizens and willing to relocate to National Defence Headquarters in the National Capital Region or other designated locations as organizational needs require. Security clearance processing is part of the hiring timeline and can take several months.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are typically full-time, permanent appointments reflecting the senior executive nature of the role and the requirement for continuity in strategic leadership and decision-making. However, the Public Service has increasingly flexible policies that may apply depending on organizational circumstances and individual negotiations with management.
Remote work arrangements have expanded across the federal government in recent years. Depending on the specific position and duties, some flexibility may be possible for work performed at National Defence Headquarters or approved alternative locations. However, the strategic and leadership nature of this role usually requires regular in-person presence for meetings, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership. Any remote work would be subject to departmental operational requirements and approval by senior management.
Flexible scheduling options such as adjusted work hours or compressed work weeks may be negotiable on a case-by-case basis. Part-time or job-sharing arrangements at the Director General level are extremely rare and would only be considered in exceptional circumstances with Treasury Board approval. We encourage interested candidates to discuss flexibility options during the recruitment process, as policies and accommodations evolve. The department is committed to supporting work-life balance while maintaining operational effectiveness.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
