As a Supervisor - Plumbing in the Department of National Defence, you will lead and manage a team of plumbing technicians and tradespeople. You are responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing plumbing maintenance, repair, and installation projects across DND facilities. Your role combines hands-on technical expertise with supervisory duties, ensuring that all plumbing systems operate safely and efficiently while maintaining compliance with building codes and safety standards.
Your daily responsibilities include assigning work tasks, monitoring project progress, conducting quality inspections, and ensuring your team follows all safety protocols and DND procedures. You will coordinate with other trades, facility managers, and contractors to complete projects on schedule and within budget. You also manage inventory, maintain records, and provide on-the-job training and mentoring to junior staff members.
You will work in a variety of DND locations including military bases, offices, training facilities, and residential quarters. The work environment can involve indoor and outdoor settings, and you may be exposed to various weather conditions. This is a union-represented position that offers the stability and benefits of federal public service employment.
Key Responsibilities
Coordinate and oversee daily plumbing 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
Trade-specific technical skills, Equipment operation, Safety procedures, Blueprint reading, Physical dexterity, Team supervision, Work coordination, Quality control, Staff development
Typical Education
Post-secondary diploma or degree; experience in the relevant technical or functional area
Training
To qualify for this supervisor position, you typically need a valid interprovincial Plumbing ticket (Red Seal certification) or provincial equivalent, usually obtained through an apprenticeship program and certification exams. Many candidates have 5+ years of hands-on plumbing experience before moving into a supervisory role.
Additional qualifications may include: a high school diploma or equivalent, first aid certification, knowledge of plumbing codes and standards, basic computer skills, and demonstrated supervisory or leadership experience. Some positions may require a valid driver's license and ability to obtain security clearance.
Once hired, DND provides ongoing professional development through supervisory training programs, safety courses, and opportunities to upgrade technical certifications. You may also participate in management development programs to enhance your leadership and administrative skills.
Entry Plans
Most candidates enter the Supervisor - Plumbing position in DND through one of these pathways: (1) External staffing competitions open to qualified Canadian citizens with the required Red Seal certification and experience; (2) Lateral movement from a Plumber position within DND or other federal departments; (3) Promotions from within, if you are already employed as a Plumber and demonstrate supervisory potential.
DND regularly advertises vacancies on the Government of Canada Job Bank and the DND Civilian Workforce careers website. Competitions typically assess your technical knowledge, supervisory capabilities, and ability to meet the position requirements. Appointment is subject to security clearance and any other eligibility requirements specific to the role and location.
Part-Time Options
Part-time work is typically limited for supervisor positions due to the continuous need for management oversight and team leadership. However, flexibility may be available depending on operational needs and specific DND location requirements. Some supervisory duties may offer scheduling flexibility, particularly for administrative tasks that can be performed outside standard operating hours.
Remote work is generally not available for this role, as supervisors must be physically present to oversee work teams, conduct safety inspections, and manage on-site operations. However, some administrative aspects of the position may be performed remotely in consultation with your manager.
Leave entitlements follow the Treasury Board guidelines for federal employees, including annual leave, sick leave, family-related leave, and other statutory holidays. DND also supports work-life balance initiatives and may accommodate requests for flexible scheduling where operationally feasible.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
