Director - Electrical

NOC 70010 Electrical Director or equivalent Non-Digital

Overview

As a Director - Electrical at National Defence, you will lead electrical engineering and trades teams responsible for the design, installation, maintenance, and management of electrical systems across Defence infrastructure and facilities. You will oversee complex electrical projects, manage budgets, coordinate with stakeholders, and ensure compliance with national electrical codes and safety regulations. This is a leadership role where you combine technical expertise with management skills to deliver critical electrical services that support military operations and Defence personnel. Your responsibilities include supervising electrical technicians and engineers, planning and executing electrical maintenance and construction projects, managing project timelines and resources, and ensuring all work meets rigorous Defence standards and safety protocols. You will also liaise with external contractors, manage procurement of electrical equipment and materials, and contribute to continuous improvement of electrical systems and processes across Defence facilities. You will work in a dynamic environment that includes military bases, National Defence Headquarters, and various Defence infrastructure locations across Canada. The role requires strong technical knowledge of electrical systems, proven leadership experience, and the ability to work collaboratively within the Defence organization.

Key Responsibilities

Plan and manage the delivery of electrical services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the electrical team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality

Required Skills

Trade-specific technical skills, Equipment operation, Safety procedures, Blueprint reading, Physical dexterity, 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

You should hold a diploma or degree in electrical engineering, electrical technology, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience in electrical work. Many candidates bring Red Seal certification as a Journeyman Electrician or equivalent provincial/territorial credentials. Professional designations such as Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) or membership in professional electrical associations are valued. Ongoing professional development is supported through Defence training programs, technical workshops on emerging electrical technologies, leadership and management courses, and certifications related to project management, safety, and Defence-specific systems. You will have access to courses through the Canadian Armed Forces learning systems and may pursue continuing education to maintain professional credentials.

Entry Plans

You can enter this career through various pathways within the federal Public Service. Many candidates are recruited through advertised competitions for Director - Electrical or senior electrical positions, which may be posted on the Government of Canada's job board (Jobs.gc.ca) and the DND careers website. If you have experience as an electrical technician, engineer, or trades professional in the private sector, you can apply directly to posted competitions. Lateral moves are common for individuals already working in Defence as electricians, electrical technicians, or engineers who are promoted into management roles. Some candidates transition from other government departments or agencies with relevant electrical or construction management experience. Defence also considers candidates from the private sector, particularly those with experience managing electrical teams or large projects. Student programs and apprenticeships in electrical trades can provide pathways to entry-level positions that lead to supervisory and director roles over time.

Part-Time Options

Director - Electrical positions are typically full-time, as the role involves ongoing operational responsibilities, team leadership, and project management that require consistent presence and availability. However, the Government of Canada supports flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible. Depending on the specific Defence location and organizational needs, some flexibility in work scheduling or compressed work weeks may be available. Remote work options are limited due to the hands-on nature of facility and infrastructure management, though some administrative or planning tasks may be completed off-site. Eligibility for flexible work arrangements should be discussed with the hiring manager and will depend on operational requirements at your assigned Defence location.