As a Manager of Language Training, you will lead and oversee language training programs and services for the Department of National Defence. You are responsible for managing a team of language instructors, coordinators, and support staff while ensuring the delivery of high-quality French and English language instruction to military personnel and civilian employees. Your role involves strategic planning, budget management, curriculum development, and quality assurance across multiple training delivery methods including classroom instruction, online learning, and immersive programs.
In this position, you will work with various stakeholders across DND to identify language training needs, develop training strategies aligned with departmental priorities, and manage the allocation of resources. You will oversee instructor performance, implement best practices in language education, and ensure compliance with Treasury Board and Canadian Language Benchmarks standards. Your decisions directly impact the professional development of thousands of military members and civilians who rely on language training to advance their careers and serve Canadians effectively.
You will work in a dynamic, mission-focused environment where language capability is essential to operational readiness and organizational effectiveness. This role offers the opportunity to shape language training policy and practice while managing a dedicated team committed to educational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of language training services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the language training team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Post-secondary education in the relevant field; supervisory and operational management experience
Training
You will typically need a bachelor's degree in education, human resources, business administration, or a related field. Many successful candidates have teaching credentials or formal training in language instruction or adult education. Professional certifications in project management, human resources, or educational leadership are valued.
To succeed in this role, you should develop expertise in program management, budget administration, performance management, and educational assessment. Government of Canada learning opportunities include courses in conflict resolution, change management, financial management, and official languages policy. Professional development through organizations such as the Canadian Association of Teachers of English as a Second Language (CATESOL) or professional language training associations can enhance your credentials. Many managers in this field pursue certifications in adult learning, instructional design, or specialized language education methodologies.
Entry Plans
There are several pathways to become a Manager of Language Training in the Public Service. The most common route is through a public service staffing competition open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. You may enter as an external candidate or apply internally if you are already a federal public servant.
If you are new to the Public Service, you might start in an education or training coordination role and progress to management through demonstrated performance and additional qualifications. Some candidates transition from other HR management positions or from teaching and instructional design roles. The Public Service may also recruit through targeted campaigns or from pools of qualified candidates.
Internal candidates currently working in DND or other federal departments can apply to competitions advertised through the Public Service Commission's job board (jobs.gc.ca). Once hired, you will complete security screening and may need to obtain a Top Secret security clearance depending on the specific position. Language requirements typically include English and French at professional working level or higher.
Part-Time Options
While most Manager positions in the Public Service are full-time permanent roles, flexible work arrangements may be negotiated depending on operational requirements and departmental policy. Many DND civilian positions offer flexible hours, compressed work weeks, or telework options, particularly for administrative and planning aspects of the management role.
Full remote work may not be feasible for this position due to the need to directly supervise staff, conduct classroom observations, and engage in face-to-face meetings with stakeholders and instructors. However, hybrid arrangements combining office and remote days are increasingly common in federal management roles. Some administrative responsibilities such as budget reviews, report writing, and curriculum planning can be completed remotely.
To explore specific flexibility options, you would discuss arrangements with the hiring manager during the recruitment process and after appointment. The Public Service is committed to supporting work-life balance, and accommodations can often be made within operational constraints. Part-time or job-sharing opportunities may be available in some circumstances, though these are less common at the management level.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
