As a Manager in Forestry with the Department of National Defence, you will lead and oversee forestry operations and environmental management initiatives on DND properties and installations across Canada. You will be responsible for developing forestry strategies, managing budgets, supervising technical staff, and ensuring compliance with federal environmental regulations and sustainable land management practices. Your work directly supports DND's commitment to environmental stewardship while maintaining the operational readiness of military installations.
In this role, you will manage forest health assessments, coordinate reforestation programs, oversee timber management activities, and implement pest and disease control measures on Defence properties. You will also liaise with external partners including provincial forestry agencies, environmental organizations, and Indigenous communities to ensure collaborative and culturally respectful land management. Your leadership will ensure that forestry operations balance military facility requirements with environmental protection and conservation goals.
You will work in a dynamic environment that combines field work with office-based management responsibilities. This may include time spent on DND installations, in natural settings conducting site assessments, and in office settings managing budgets, reports, and team coordination. The role requires strong problem-solving skills, environmental knowledge, and the ability to manage competing priorities in a federal government context.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of forestry services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the forestry team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Scientific methodology, Field research, Environmental assessment, Data interpretation, Regulatory compliance, 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 a Manager - Forestry position, you typically need a bachelor's degree in forestry, forest science, environmental management, or a closely related field from a recognized Canadian university. Some positions may accept candidates with a diploma in forestry technology combined with relevant work experience.
Professional certification as a Professional Forester (P.F. or R.P.F.) with your provincial forestry association is highly valued and may be required for certain positions. This certification demonstrates your commitment to professional standards and ongoing competency in forestry practices.
Once hired, you will have access to federal government learning and development programs, including courses in DND-specific environmental policies, federal procurement, human resources management, and Indigenous engagement practices. Opportunities exist for professional development through forestry conferences, workshops on emerging forest management practices, and advanced training in digital forestry tools and climate-adaptive management strategies. The federal government also supports employees pursuing further education and professional certifications throughout their careers.
Entry Plans
Entry to a Manager - Forestry position with DND typically occurs through competitive public service staffing processes. Positions are advertised on the Government of Canada's official job board (jobs.gc.ca) and are open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and protected persons.
You may enter this career through several pathways: direct competition for Manager - Forestry positions if you have the required education and experience; internal competitions if you are already a federal public servant; or lateral moves from related positions such as Forestry Technician, Environmental Officer, or other resource management roles within DND or other federal departments.
For those early in their careers, the federal government offers student work programs and co-op opportunities with DND that can provide valuable experience in forestry and environmental management. Some positions may be filled through staffing pools established by the Public Service Commission, which can expedite the hiring process.
The specific requirements, experience needed, and application process vary by position and region. It is recommended that you regularly check jobs.gc.ca for current opportunities and contact the DND Civilian Recruitment Centre for information about career pathways in forestry management.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements for Manager - Forestry positions are available on a case-by-case basis and depend on operational requirements and management approval. Many DND installations operate year-round, which may limit flexibility during certain seasons when forestry work is most active.
Remote work options are limited for this role due to the need for regular field assessments and on-site management of forestry operations. However, some administrative and planning components of the role may be performed remotely, and hybrid arrangements combining field days with office-based work are possible in some circumstances.
Work schedules may vary seasonally, with increased field activity during growing seasons and potentially more office-based work during winter months, depending on your location and specific responsibilities. DND is committed to supporting work-life balance and will discuss accommodation options during the hiring process. Employees are encouraged to discuss flexibility options with their manager within the constraints of operational requirements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
