As a Director General in Plumbing, you will provide strategic leadership and direction to plumbing operations and teams across Department of National Defence (DND) facilities and infrastructure. This senior executive role involves overseeing the planning, coordination, and delivery of plumbing services that support military operations, ensuring facilities remain operational and safe. You will manage large budgets, supervise multiple teams of skilled trades workers, and work with other departments to maintain the plumbing systems essential to Canada's defence infrastructure.
Your responsibilities include developing and implementing policies and procedures for plumbing operations, ensuring compliance with building codes and safety regulations, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. You will represent the plumbing function at senior management levels, providing expert advice on infrastructure challenges and emerging technologies. This role requires strong leadership skills, the ability to manage complex projects, and a commitment to supporting both military and civilian personnel who depend on reliable facility infrastructure.
You will work in a dynamic federal environment where your decisions directly impact operational readiness. This position offers the opportunity to lead large-scale infrastructure initiatives, mentor experienced trades professionals, and contribute to the modernization of DND facilities across Canada.
Key Responsibilities
Perform plumbing tasks maintaining government facilities and assets, Operate tools, equipment, and machinery safely, Follow technical specifications and safety procedures, Maintain records of work performed and materials used
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
To qualify for this position, you typically need a combination of education and professional experience. Most candidates hold a high school diploma or equivalent, with substantial hands-on experience as a certified plumber or in plumbing supervision. Many successful candidates have completed apprenticeships in plumbing trades through provincial programs and hold a journeyperson certification.
Professional certifications that strengthen your candidacy include credentials from recognized plumbing trade associations and provincial trade certification bodies. Experience with building codes (National Building Code of Canada and provincial equivalents), project management, and budget administration is highly valued. Some candidates pursue post-secondary education in construction management, facilities management, or related fields.
Once hired, you will have access to Government of Canada professional development programs including executive leadership training, management courses, and specialized instruction in federal procurement and policy frameworks. DND supports continuous learning through tuition assistance programs and access to learning platforms that help you stay current with industry standards and emerging technologies in building systems.
Entry Plans
Entry to the Director General level typically occurs through several pathways within the federal Public Service. Many candidates advance through internal competitions after gaining experience in lower-level plumbing management positions (such as Supervisor or Manager roles). The Public Service Commission regularly advertises competitions for senior positions, which are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
Experienced trades professionals from outside government can apply to open competitions. Some candidates enter the federal workforce through lateral moves from other departments or agencies, bringing their expertise to DND. The federal government also recognizes equivalent experience from provincial governments, municipalities, and private sector organizations, allowing skilled professionals to transition into equivalent federal roles.
The Treasury Board Secretariat maintains job pools for senior management positions that may allow you to apply once and be considered for similar vacancies across departments. Keep an eye on the DND Civilian Careers website and the Government of Canada Job Bank for posted competitions. Networking with current DND employees and staying informed about organizational priorities can provide valuable insight into upcoming opportunities.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are typically full-time permanent roles due to the strategic leadership and continuous oversight responsibilities required. However, the federal government is increasingly exploring flexible work arrangements for senior managers where operational requirements permit.
Flexible work options may include compressed work weeks or staggered schedules, though these arrangements are negotiated on a case-by-case basis and depend on DND's operational needs. Remote work options are limited at this level, as the role often requires on-site presence for facility inspections, team meetings, and coordination with other departments.
The federal government is committed to work-life balance and offers benefits such as generous vacation entitlements (typically 15 days annually, increasing with years of service), paid sick leave, and access to employee wellness programs. Many DND locations also offer flexible hours where possible, allowing you to manage personal commitments while meeting operational demands. We encourage you to discuss specific flexibility needs during the recruitment process, as accommodations may be available depending on your circumstances and role requirements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
