As a Supervisor in Oceanography at Department of National Defence, you will lead a team of oceanography professionals while contributing to Canada's maritime security, environmental stewardship, and scientific advancement. You will oversee research projects, manage personnel, and ensure quality standards in oceanographic investigations that support naval operations, coastal defence, and climate monitoring initiatives. Your work directly contributes to understanding Canadian waters and maintaining maritime operational effectiveness.
In this role, you will balance hands-on scientific expertise with supervisory responsibilities. You'll conduct or oversee oceanographic surveys, analyze marine data, and interpret findings relevant to defence and security operations. You'll also mentor junior scientists and technicians, allocate resources, manage project timelines, and communicate complex scientific findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders within DND and partner organizations.
You will work in a collaborative environment that includes research laboratories, field operations on Canadian waters, and office settings. Travel may be required for fieldwork, conferences, and inter-departmental coordination. This position offers the opportunity to apply oceanographic science to meaningful national security and environmental objectives while leading a dedicated team.
Key Responsibilities
Coordinate and oversee daily oceanography operations, Assign work, monitor progress, and provide guidance to team members, Review work products for quality and compliance with standards, Contribute to operational planning and process improvement
Required Skills
Research design, Statistical analysis, Laboratory techniques, Scientific writing, Data interpretation, Team supervision, Work coordination, Quality control, Staff development
Typical Education
Post-secondary diploma or degree; experience in the relevant technical or functional area
Training
You will typically need a Bachelor's degree in Oceanography, Marine Science, Physics, Chemistry, Geology, or a related discipline. A Master's degree in Oceanography or a specialized marine science field is preferred and strengthens your candidacy. Many successful candidates hold or are working toward professional designations such as membership with professional engineering or geoscience associations.
Once hired, you will receive orientation in DND operations, maritime security frameworks, and internal systems. Ongoing professional development opportunities include advanced data analysis training, leadership and management courses through the Canadian Forces College, specialized oceanographic certifications, and attendance at scientific conferences. DND supports continuing education and encourages participation in professional geoscience and oceanography associations to maintain currency in your field.
Entry Plans
Entry to this supervisor-level position typically occurs through advertised competitions on the Government of Canada's job board (jobs.gc.ca). Candidates usually progress to this level after 3-5 years of experience as an oceanography specialist or scientist within DND or related federal departments. Some candidates transition from academic or private sector oceanography roles into DND competitions.
You may also enter through lateral moves if you hold equivalent supervisory experience in related scientific fields. DND occasionally recruits from departmental pools of qualified oceanography specialists seeking advancement. Recent graduates with strong credentials may enter at the specialist level first and advance to supervision through internal competitions and demonstrated performance. Military-connected hiring preferences may apply if you are a veteran or family member of Canadian Armed Forces personnel.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available depending on operational requirements and team needs. Many oceanography supervisor positions can accommodate flexible scheduling for administrative and analytical work, though fieldwork schedules may be less flexible due to maritime operation windows and seasonal conditions.
Remote work options exist for portions of your role, particularly for data analysis, reporting, literature review, and administrative supervision activities. However, expect to work on-site regularly for team meetings, laboratory oversight, equipment maintenance, and mission-critical oceanographic operations. The extent of remote and flexible arrangements will be discussed during the hiring process and may vary based on your specific work location and assigned projects. DND is increasingly supporting hybrid work models where operational requirements permit.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
