As a Supervisor in Physics, you lead a team of physicists and technical staff in conducting scientific research, analysis, and experimentation to support Defence and National Security objectives. You provide technical direction on physics-based projects while managing team performance, workload allocation, and professional development. Your work directly contributes to advancing Defence capabilities in areas such as materials science, quantum technologies, sensor systems, and other physics-related domains critical to Canadian defence and security. You work within research laboratories, testing facilities, or operational environments at Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC) locations or other DND establishments. Your role combines hands-on physics expertise with people management responsibilities, requiring you to stay current with scientific developments while effectively leading your team. You collaborate with other scientific disciplines, military personnel, and external research partners to translate physics research into practical defence applications.
Key Responsibilities
Coordinate and oversee daily physics 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
A bachelor's degree in physics or a closely related physical science discipline is the minimum requirement for this position. Most candidates hold a master's degree or PhD in physics, nuclear physics, astrophysics, or a specialized physics field relevant to defence applications. Professional certification through Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) or equivalent provincial bodies is common and valued. Ongoing professional development is expected, including participation in scientific conferences, seminars, and continuing education in emerging physics fields such as quantum mechanics applications, advanced materials, or photonics. DND and the Government of Canada support employees through professional development budgets, access to online learning platforms, and tuition assistance programs. Security clearance training and defence-specific technical certifications may be required depending on your research focus.
Entry Plans
Entry to this supervisor position typically follows one of several pathways: (1) Competitive advancement from a Physics Scientist or Research Scientist position within DND after demonstrating strong technical expertise and supervisory potential; (2) External recruitment through a public competition when candidates from outside the federal Public Service apply; (3) Lateral movement from other federal science and technology organizations, such as the National Research Council or other departments, leveraging existing physics expertise and federal service experience; (4) Appointment through a staffing pool of pre-qualified candidates established by Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC). Most candidates bring 7-10 years of physics research or technical experience before stepping into supervisory roles. The Government of Canada uses the Federal Competency Framework and Job Architecture to determine qualifications and merit-based selection criteria.
Part-Time Options
Full-time permanent employment is the standard for this supervisor role due to team management responsibilities and the need for consistent leadership presence. However, the Government of Canada increasingly offers flexible work arrangements. Depending on operational requirements and organizational approval, flexible scheduling, compressed work weeks, or hybrid remote-office arrangements may be negotiated. Scientific research and lab-based work may require on-site presence for equipment operation and team supervision, though administrative duties and report writing can often be performed remotely. Part-time positions at the supervisor level are uncommon but may be available during recruitment or as a transition arrangement. Employees are encouraged to discuss flexible work options with their manager and Human Resources Business Partner to find arrangements that support both personal needs and operational effectiveness.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
