As a Director of Environmental Services in the Department of National Defence, you will lead and manage environmental programs, policies, and operations across military installations and defence operations. You will be responsible for developing environmental strategies, ensuring compliance with federal and provincial environmental regulations, and overseeing teams of environmental professionals and support staff. This role is critical to DND's commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainability, and operational excellence.
In this position, you will direct environmental assessments, manage contamination remediation projects, oversee waste management and pollution prevention programs, and ensure that defence activities meet or exceed environmental standards. You will work at the strategic level, collaborating with senior leadership, other government departments, provincial and territorial governments, and external stakeholders to address complex environmental challenges.
You will operate in a dynamic and mission-focused environment where environmental responsibility supports operational readiness. Your work directly impacts the sustainability of defence infrastructure, the health of surrounding communities, and Canada's environmental commitments. This role offers the opportunity to influence national defence operations while advancing environmental protection.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of general environmental services services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the general environmental services 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
To succeed in this role, you typically need a university degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, environmental management, or a related field such as biology, chemistry, or geology. Many successful candidates hold a Master's degree or have completed professional certifications such as Professional Engineer (P.Eng.), Certified Environmental Professional (CEP), or Certified Environmental Manager (CEM).
The Government of Canada provides extensive professional development opportunities, including executive leadership training, environmental management courses, and specialized certifications in areas such as environmental compliance, contamination assessment, and sustainable operations. You may also pursue advanced credentials through professional associations like Engineers and Geoscientists Canada or the Canadian Environmental Law Association. DND supports ongoing learning through tuition assistance, conference attendance, and in-house training programs to keep you current with evolving environmental regulations and best practices.
Entry Plans
Entry into this Director-level position typically occurs through one of several pathways. Most candidates advance through the Public Service after gaining experience in progressively senior environmental roles, such as Environmental Officer or Senior Environmental Officer positions within DND or other federal departments. You may enter through a competitive external appointment process if you bring equivalent private sector or academic experience in environmental management and demonstrated leadership capabilities.
The Government of Canada uses merit-based competitions to fill Director positions. These competitions are posted on the Government of Canada job board (jobs.gc.ca) and are open to both internal Public Service employees and external candidates. Some candidates transition laterally from related fields such as occupational health and safety, engineering services, or corporate services where they have developed relevant management and regulatory compliance experience. If you are currently a student or recent graduate, you may enter the Public Service through programs like the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or the Public Service Resourcing Group (PSRG) as a stepping stone to build your career toward this level.
Part-Time Options
Director-level positions in DND are typically full-time permanent roles due to the strategic and operational responsibilities involved. However, the Government of Canada recognizes the importance of work-life balance and flexibility. Depending on operational requirements and individual circumstances, some flexible work arrangements may be negotiated, such as compressed work weeks or flexible start and end times.
Remote work options may be available for portions of your work, particularly for planning, analysis, and coordination tasks, though the role will require regular on-site presence at Defence installations and in meetings with senior stakeholders. Part-time conversion from full-time status is generally not available at the Director level due to the continuity and decision-making authority required. If you require accommodation or have specific flexibility needs, these should be discussed during the recruitment process and may be considered on a case-by-case basis in accordance with Treasury Board policies and collective agreement provisions.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
