As a Director of Dentistry, you will lead and manage dental health services within Department of National Defence (DND) facilities, ensuring accessible, high-quality oral healthcare to military personnel and their families. You will oversee clinical operations, budget management, staff supervision, and strategic planning for dental programs across one or more locations. This leadership role requires you to balance operational excellence with fiscal responsibility while maintaining compliance with health care standards and regulations.
In this position, you will be responsible for directing a team of dental professionals, including dentists, hygienists, and support staff. Your duties include developing clinical protocols, managing equipment and facilities, coordinating with other health care departments, and ensuring patient safety and satisfaction. You will also contribute to workforce planning, performance management, and the professional development of your team members.
You will work in a structured military health care environment with access to modern dental facilities. The role offers the opportunity to serve Canada's military community while working within a supportive organizational structure. Your work will directly impact the operational readiness and well-being of service members by maintaining their oral health.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of dentistry services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the dentistry team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Clinical skills, Patient/client assessment, Empathy and communication, Record-keeping, Interdisciplinary collaboration, 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
To qualify for this position, you must hold a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from a recognized institution, along with a valid dental license in the province or territory where you will work. Many candidates also hold a Master's degree in Health Administration, Business Administration, or a related field, which strengthens leadership and management credentials.
Professional certifications are essential, including current membership in your provincial dental regulatory body and, where required, certification in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) or similar emergency protocols. You should demonstrate knowledge of dental practice management, health care legislation, and military organizational structures.
Continuous professional development is encouraged and supported throughout your career. The Public Service offers access to leadership development programs, management training, and specialized courses in health care administration. DND also supports ongoing clinical education and professional certifications to keep your dental knowledge current.
Entry Plans
Entry to this director-level position typically occurs through competitive selection processes advertised on the Public Service Commission (PSC) website and the DND Civilian Careers portal. These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who meet the qualifications.
You may enter at this level if you have demonstrated experience in dental management, clinical leadership, or health care administration—often gained in private practice, provincial health systems, or other federal departments. Some candidates progress to this role after working in senior dental positions within DND or other health organizations.
The Government of Canada uses various recruitment methods, including open competitions, targeted recruitment, and priority hiring from the Public Service labor pool. Lateral moves from comparable positions in other federal departments or health authorities are also possible. Networking with DND Human Resources and staying informed about job postings will help you identify opportunities aligned with your career goals.
Part-Time Options
Director-level positions in DND dental services are typically full-time, permanent roles. However, flexible work arrangements may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis depending on operational requirements and departmental policy.
Remote work options are generally limited due to the clinical and supervisory nature of dental operations, which require your presence at the facility. However, some administrative and planning duties may be performed off-site when operationally feasible.
The Public Service is committed to work-life balance and supports employees through flexible scheduling, telework options for administrative tasks, and family-friendly policies. During recruitment, you can discuss specific flexibility needs with the hiring manager to explore what accommodations may be available within operational constraints. Benefits such as leave entitlements and wellness programs support a sustainable work environment.
