As a Manager in Oceanography, you will lead a team of oceanographers and scientific professionals working to advance Canada's marine research and ocean science capabilities. In this role, you provide strategic direction, manage resources, and oversee the planning and execution of oceanographic research projects that support National Defence and broader Canadian priorities. You work within Department of National Defence facilities and research institutions, collaborating with other government departments, academic institutions, and international partners to address critical ocean science challenges.
Your responsibilities include supervising scientific staff, managing project budgets and timelines, ensuring research quality and compliance with government standards, and communicating findings to senior leadership and stakeholders. You balance operational requirements with scientific integrity, making decisions that affect research direction, resource allocation, and team development. This is a role where scientific expertise combines with leadership skills to drive meaningful contributions to Canada's maritime security and environmental understanding.
You work in a professional environment that values evidence-based decision making and scientific excellence. The role typically involves regular meetings with colleagues, budget planning activities, performance management responsibilities, and coordination with external research partners. You may travel occasionally to attend conferences, visit field sites, or meet with stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of oceanography services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the oceanography 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 role, you typically need a university degree in oceanography, marine science, physics, chemistry, biology, or a related physical or life science discipline. A master's degree or PhD in oceanography or a specialized oceanographic discipline is often preferred, particularly for more senior positions within this career. Your education should provide strong foundational knowledge in oceanographic theory, research methodologies, and data analysis.
Beyond formal education, successful managers in this field develop expertise through several years of professional oceanographic research experience. Professional certifications in project management (such as PMP), professional designation through engineering or science associations, and training in relevant software or analytical tools strengthen your qualifications. The Government of Canada also offers ongoing professional development opportunities, including management training, leadership development programs, security clearance training, and specialized technical workshops related to emerging oceanographic research priorities. Continuous learning in areas such as climate science, marine conservation, and technological advances in ocean observation is encouraged throughout your career.
Entry Plans
Entry into this managerial position typically occurs through advertised public service competitions open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and other eligible groups. The Department of National Defence posts Manager - Oceanography positions on the Government of Canada Job Bank and the DND careers website. Candidates usually progress to this level after gaining several years of experience as oceanographers or scientists within the federal public service or other research organizations.
Common pathways include: (1) competing for the position after building oceanographic expertise in related scientific roles at the federal level; (2) lateral entry if you have equivalent oceanographic research and team leadership experience from academic institutions, provincial governments, or private research organizations; (3) participation in the Public Service Commission's pools or staffing initiatives when available; and (4) internal promotion within DND if you are already employed as a scientist and have demonstrated management capability.
The department also recruits through graduate-level recruitment programs and internships that can lead to permanent positions. Some candidates enter via secondment arrangements from universities or other government departments. Competition requirements will specify education, years of experience, and sometimes bilingual language requirements (English and French proficiency levels vary by position).
Part-Time Options
Part-time work arrangements for Manager - Oceanography positions are limited compared to some other roles, as managerial responsibilities typically require consistent full-time presence. However, the federal public service does offer flexible work options. Depending on operational needs and departmental policy, managers may be able to negotiate flexible hours, compressed work weeks, or part-time schedules on a case-by-case basis, subject to approval from senior management.
Remote work options have expanded across the Government of Canada. For this role, some duties may be performed remotely, particularly administrative tasks, report writing, email correspondence, and virtual meetings with team members and stakeholders. However, regular on-site presence is typically necessary for direct supervision, facility oversight, and access to specialized oceanographic equipment and laboratories. The extent of remote work flexibility will depend on your specific work location, team structure, and departmental requirements. Job postings will specify any remote work eligibility and expected work arrangements. Interested candidates should discuss flexible work possibilities with their hiring manager during the recruitment process.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
