As a Manager - Environmental Science with the Department of National Defence, you will lead a team of environmental science professionals who conduct research, monitoring, and assessments to support military operations and installations. You will be responsible for managing scientific projects, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, and providing expert advice on environmental matters affecting Defence operations. Your work directly contributes to protecting Canada's environment while enabling the Canadian Armed Forces to conduct their missions effectively and sustainably.
In this role, you will oversee the planning, execution, and reporting of environmental science initiatives across Defence facilities and operations. Your responsibilities include supervising staff, allocating resources, managing budgets, coordinating with internal and external stakeholders, and ensuring adherence to federal environmental standards and DND policies. You will translate complex scientific findings into actionable recommendations for senior leaders and operational commanders.
You will work in a collaborative environment with scientists, engineers, and military personnel across multiple locations. The role may involve site visits to Defence installations, participation in interdepartmental working groups, and liaison with other government agencies, provincial governments, and Indigenous communities on environmental matters.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of environmental science services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the environmental science team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Research design, Statistical analysis, Laboratory techniques, Scientific writing, Data interpretation, People management, Operational oversight, Quality assurance, Resource coordination
Typical Education
Post-secondary education in the relevant field; supervisory and operational management experience
Training
To qualify for this position, you typically need a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry, Geology, or a related scientific discipline. Many successful candidates hold a Master's degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, or a specialized field such as environmental assessment or contaminated site remediation.
Professional certification or membership in relevant associations such as Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO), Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia (EGBC), or the Canadian Environmental Certification Approvals Board (CECAB) is often preferred. You should have knowledge of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, the Fisheries Act, and other applicable federal and provincial environmental legislation.
The Government of Canada provides ongoing professional development opportunities, including training in project management, financial administration, human resources management, and leadership. You will have access to courses through the Canada School of Public Service and may pursue additional certifications in environmental management, climate change adaptation, or specialized technical areas relevant to Defence priorities.
Entry Plans
Entry into this career with the Department of National Defence typically occurs through advertised competitions for the Manager - Environmental Science position. Competitions may be open to Canadian citizens or permanent residents, depending on the specific posting.
You may enter through several pathways: direct competition if you have relevant experience as a senior scientist or team lead in environmental fields; lateral movement if you are already employed in the federal Public Service in a related scientific or technical role; or promotion if you are currently working as an Environmental Scientist or in a junior environmental management position within DND. Some positions may be filled through pools of pre-screened candidates maintained by DND for recurring staffing needs.
The Government of Canada also offers post-secondary recruitment programs, including the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) and co-op placements, which can provide pathways into permanent positions for recent graduates. Interested candidates should monitor the Government of Canada's official job board (Jobs.gc.ca) for current and upcoming competition notices.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for Manager - Environmental Science positions, depending on operational requirements and team needs. Many DND offices support flexible schedules, compressed work weeks, and telework options where work can be performed outside the office.
Remote work is increasingly available for management and administrative duties, particularly for activities such as report writing, data analysis, budget management, and internal meetings. However, some aspects of the role—such as site inspections, field work coordination, and in-person stakeholder meetings—may require presence at Defence installations or other locations.
The specific availability of part-time and flexible arrangements will be outlined in individual job postings and can be discussed with the hiring manager during the recruitment process. DND is committed to supporting work-life balance and accommodating employee needs where operationally feasible.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
