As an Assistant Deputy Minister (ADM) for General Labour and Trades within the Department of National Defence, you will provide strategic leadership and management oversight for all general labour and trades operations. This senior executive role involves directing the development and implementation of policies, procedures, and programs that support the department's infrastructure, maintenance, and operational requirements. You will work at the highest levels of DND, reporting directly to the Deputy Minister and collaborating with other senior leaders to ensure effective service delivery across the organization.
In this position, you will be responsible for managing large teams of skilled tradespeople, including carpenters, electricians, plumbers, welders, and equipment operators. Your duties include overseeing capital projects, maintenance programs, health and safety compliance, workforce planning, and budget management across multiple locations. You will ensure that all labour and trades operations meet federal standards, Treasury Board directives, and departmental objectives while promoting a safe, inclusive, and productive workplace.
You will work in a dynamic environment where strategic thinking, operational excellence, and people management are critical. This role requires regular interaction with senior government officials, military leadership, external contractors, and union representatives. You may travel to various DND installations and facilities across Canada to oversee operations and address organizational challenges.
Key Responsibilities
Provide strategic direction and leadership for general labour programs and initiatives, Advise senior management on policy and operational matters, Manage human and financial resources to achieve organizational objectives, Represent the organization in interdepartmental and external forums, Ensure compliance with Treasury Board policies and Government of Canada directives
Graduate degree preferred; significant experience at the executive level in the public service
Training
To qualify for this position, you typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering, business administration, construction management, or a related field, combined with significant professional experience in labour management, trades supervision, or construction operations. Many candidates have advanced certifications such as a Project Management Professional (PMP) credential, Certified Construction Manager (CCM), or similar designations.
You must demonstrate extensive experience managing large, complex labour operations, ideally within a government or military context. Professional certifications in occupational health and safety, and familiarity with federal procurement and Treasury Board policies are valuable assets. Ongoing professional development is expected, including participation in senior leadership programs offered through the Canada School of Public Service, executive coaching, and specialized training in government management practices, labour relations, and strategic planning.
Entry Plans
Entry to this Assistant Deputy Minister position occurs through formal Government of Canada competitions advertised on the Public Service Commission (PSC) website and DND's internal staffing channels. These competitions are typically open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents with appropriate security clearance eligibility.
Most candidates advance to ADM level after progressing through intermediate management positions within the Public Service, such as Manager, Senior Manager, or Director roles in labour and trades operations. Internal lateral moves from other federal departments are common for experienced senior managers seeking advancement. Some positions may be filled through bridging from the Canadian Armed Forces for military personnel transitioning to civilian leadership roles.
The selection process includes a formal application, evaluation of qualifications and experience, interviews with senior departmental officials, and security vetting. Candidates are expected to demonstrate strategic vision, executive presence, and a proven track record of successfully managing complex organizational change and large budgets. DND may also consider candidates from the broader federal Public Service who possess relevant senior management experience in comparable fields.
Part-Time Options
Assistant Deputy Minister positions are full-time, permanent roles that require significant commitment and availability. Part-time or job-sharing arrangements are not typically available at this senior executive level due to the strategic nature of the role and the need for consistent leadership presence.
However, flexible work arrangements may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis, particularly regarding remote work for administrative tasks and meetings. Many senior leaders in this role have the flexibility to work from different DND locations or occasionally from home for non-operational duties, though regular on-site presence at headquarters and facility inspections is required. The role demands responsiveness to urgent operational and strategic matters, which may require availability beyond standard business hours. Telework options are considered within the constraints of operational requirements and organizational needs.
