As a Director of Chemistry, you will lead scientific teams and manage chemistry-related research, development, and operational initiatives within the Department of National Defence. You will be responsible for setting strategic direction, overseeing project delivery, managing budgets and resources, and ensuring alignment with Defence priorities. This role combines scientific expertise with leadership and management responsibilities, requiring you to guide teams of scientists, technicians, and support staff while maintaining the highest standards of scientific integrity and security.
Your responsibilities will include developing chemistry research programs and strategies, evaluating scientific outcomes and performance, representing the organization at professional and government forums, and collaborating with other government departments, academic institutions, and industry partners. You will also be accountable for workplace management, staff development, and creating an environment that supports innovation and excellence in chemistry-related work.
Directors of Chemistry typically work in laboratory and office environments at Defence research facilities across Canada. You may be required to travel for meetings, conferences, or consultations with stakeholders. The position requires a high level of scientific knowledge, strong analytical skills, and the ability to manage complex, multi-disciplinary teams in a security-conscious environment.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of chemistry services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the chemistry team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Research design, Statistical analysis, Laboratory techniques, Scientific writing, Data interpretation, 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
Candidates for Director of Chemistry positions must hold a bachelor's degree in chemistry or a related scientific discipline from a recognized institution. A master's degree or PhD in chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field is highly preferred and often required for this senior level position. You should have extensive post-secondary education or equivalent professional experience demonstrating advanced knowledge in chemistry and its applications.
Additional qualifications include professional certification or membership with recognized bodies such as Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO), Engineers Canada, or the Chemical Institute of Canada (CIC). You will need to maintain and develop your scientific expertise throughout your career through participation in professional development, attending conferences, and staying current with advances in chemistry and related fields. Management and leadership training is also emphasized at the Director level, with opportunities to pursue executive education programs offered through the Public Service or external institutions. All candidates must be willing to obtain and maintain security clearance as required by Defence operations.
Entry Plans
Entry into a Director of Chemistry position typically occurs through open competition or targeted recruitment initiatives managed by the Public Service Commission. Candidates usually progress through a career pathway that may include roles such as Research Scientist, Senior Research Scientist, or Manager - Chemistry before reaching the Director level. These positions are advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank and internal DND recruitment channels.
Lateral moves from other federal science-based organizations or from the private sector are also considered, provided candidates meet the educational and experience requirements. Experienced scientists from academia, industry, or other government departments with strong records of accomplishment and demonstrated leadership capability may be eligible. Some candidates may enter through targeted recruitment for specialized expertise or through the DND Civilian Recruitment Campaign. Internal advancement from scientific or management positions within DND is a common pathway. All appointments are made through competitive processes that evaluate technical qualifications, management capability, and alignment with Defence values and priorities.
Part-Time Options
Director-level positions are typically full-time roles due to the strategic and leadership responsibilities involved. However, arrangements for compressed work weeks or flexible scheduling may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis, subject to operational requirements and approval by senior management.
Remote or hybrid work options may be available for portions of the role that involve administrative work, strategic planning, or liaison activities, depending on organizational needs and the nature of laboratory work required. Scientists in Director roles sometimes have the flexibility to work from home for desk-based activities while maintaining a regular presence at Defence facilities for hands-on research oversight and team leadership.
The feasibility of part-time or flexible arrangements will be determined during the recruitment process and throughout employment based on the specific requirements of the position, team structure, and Defence operational priorities. Interested candidates are encouraged to discuss scheduling flexibility options with hiring managers during the application process.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
