As a Director of Agriculture, you will provide strategic leadership and management of agricultural operations, programs, and initiatives within the Department of National Defence. You will be responsible for overseeing agricultural activities that support DND operations, sustainability goals, and environmental stewardship across military installations and facilities. This role involves developing policies, managing budgets, coordinating with internal and external stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with federal agricultural standards and regulations.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include supervising agricultural teams, implementing best practices in crop and livestock management, managing capital projects related to agricultural infrastructure, and reporting on program performance and outcomes. You will work collaboratively with other departments, provincial agriculture ministries, research institutions, and industry partners to advance agricultural excellence and innovation within DND. This position requires strong analytical skills, decision-making abilities, and the capacity to manage complex, multi-faceted agricultural portfolios.
You will work in a dynamic federal environment where your contributions directly support operational readiness and institutional sustainability. This role offers the opportunity to influence agricultural policy, lead transformation initiatives, and make meaningful decisions that benefit both the organization and Canadian agriculture.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of agriculture services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the agriculture team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Scientific methodology, Field research, Environmental assessment, Data interpretation, Regulatory compliance, Team leadership, Operational planning, Stakeholder engagement, Results management
Typical Education
Bachelor's degree or equivalent; significant experience in the relevant discipline with demonstrated leadership
Training
Typical qualifications for this Director-level position include a bachelor's degree in agriculture, agronomy, agricultural business, environmental science, or a related field. Many candidates hold graduate degrees such as a Master's in Agriculture, Business Administration (MBA), or Public Administration (MPA). Professional certifications in agricultural management, environmental compliance, or project management are valued assets.
Once hired, you will have access to federal professional development programs, including leadership and management training through the Canada School of Public Service. DND supports ongoing learning through online courses, conferences, and professional association memberships relevant to agriculture and environmental management. Candidates are encouraged to maintain or pursue certifications from professional bodies such as Professional Agrologists associations or agricultural management organizations. Many directors participate in executive coaching and advanced leadership development programs to enhance strategic capabilities.
Entry Plans
Entry to this Director-level position typically occurs through advertised public competitions open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and other eligible candidates. The Public Service Commission (PSC) conducts these competitions, which may be open or merit-based pools. Candidates are assessed on education, experience, technical knowledge, and demonstrated leadership competencies.
Lateral moves from other federal departments are common, particularly for those with relevant agricultural, environmental, or operational management experience. Some candidates progress internally within DND from lower-level positions such as Agricultural Officer or Senior Agricultural Specialist, developing expertise over time. The federal Student Work-Integrated Learning (SWIL) program and Co-op programs can provide entry points for recent graduates to build experience before applying for director-level roles.
To be competitive, candidates should demonstrate progressive responsibility in agricultural management, proven track records of leading teams, experience with federal budgets and governance, and strategic thinking. Bilingualism (English and French) is an asset for advancement to director positions and may be a requirement depending on the specific posting.
Part-Time Options
Part-time work at the Director level is limited due to the strategic and continuous nature of leadership responsibilities. However, DND Civilian Workforce offers flexible work arrangements that may include flexible hours, compressed work weeks, or modified schedules where operationally feasible. These arrangements are negotiated on a case-by-case basis with your manager and must ensure continuity of service and leadership presence.
Remote work options depend on DND's operational requirements and the nature of your responsibilities. Directors managing agricultural operations may require on-site presence at military installations for facility inspections, team supervision, and stakeholder engagement. However, portions of strategic planning, reporting, and administrative duties may be completed remotely. The federal government continues to modernize work arrangements; specific remote work eligibility should be discussed during the recruitment process and is subject to departmental policies and operational needs.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
