As a Director of Engineering and Architecture, you lead the planning, design, and implementation of complex engineering solutions and architectural strategies across Department of National Defence operations and infrastructure. You provide strategic direction to engineering teams, oversee major projects, and ensure alignment with departmental objectives and federal engineering standards. This role combines technical expertise with people management and strategic planning responsibilities.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include directing engineering projects from conception through delivery, managing budgets and resources, mentoring professional engineers, and representing the department in technical and strategic discussions. You make decisions on engineering approaches, oversee quality assurance, and ensure compliance with safety regulations, industry standards, and government directives. You work with stakeholders across military and civilian branches to translate operational needs into viable engineering solutions.
You work in a dynamic environment that values innovation, technical excellence, and continuous improvement. Your office is typically located at a DND headquarters facility, major base, or regional centre, though the role may require travel to project sites, other government departments, or industry partners. You collaborate with military personnel, civilian colleagues, contractors, and external partners in engineering disciplines.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of general engineering and architecture services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the general engineering and architecture team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Technical analysis, Design and drafting tools (CAD), Project management, Regulatory knowledge, Problem-solving, 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 must hold a Bachelor's degree in engineering or architecture from a Canadian engineering program accredited by Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) or equivalent provincial accreditation bodies. A Master's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field is highly valued and may be required for some positions.
Professional Engineering (P.Eng.) certification or equivalency is required or must be obtainable within a specified timeframe after appointment. You should maintain current knowledge of engineering practices, emerging technologies, and management methodologies relevant to defence and security contexts.
The Government of Canada supports continuous professional development through training programs, conference attendance, and professional association memberships. Many directors pursue certifications in project management (PMP, PRINCE2), specialized engineering disciplines, or advanced leadership programs. DND provides security clearance training and orientation to defence-specific policies and procedures.
Entry Plans
Entry to Director-level positions typically occurs through advertised competitions open to qualified Canadian citizens. You may enter through:
• Open competitions for Director roles, which may require demonstrating prior experience in senior engineering or technical management positions
• Internal advancement from Senior Engineer or Manager positions within DND or other federal departments, where you have demonstrated leadership capability and technical expertise
• Lateral moves from other federal departments or Crown corporations where you hold equivalent director-level positions
• Returnship or bridge programs for individuals re-entering the public service with relevant experience
Most positions require a minimum of 5-10 years of professional engineering experience and 3-5 years in a management or leadership capacity. You must pass a security clearance process and meet residency requirements. The Public Service Commission oversees competitive hiring and can provide information on upcoming opportunities through the Government of Canada job portal (jobs.gc.ca).
Part-Time Options
Full-time permanent employment is the standard for Director-level positions due to the strategic nature of responsibilities and the need for consistent organizational presence. However, flexible work arrangements may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis, subject to operational requirements and approval from senior management.
Remote work options have expanded across DND and are evaluated based on the specific role and project needs. Some administrative and strategic planning work may be performed from home, though in-person attendance is typically required for leadership meetings, stakeholder engagement, and project oversight activities.
Part-time or job-share arrangements at the Director level are rare but not prohibited. Any such arrangement would require special approval and would depend on finding a suitable co-director or restructuring responsibilities. DND remains committed to work-life balance and supports employees in accessing flexible work options within operational and service delivery constraints.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
