As a Director of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering in the Department of National Defence, you will lead strategic engineering initiatives that support the design, optimization, and delivery of military equipment and facilities. You will oversee complex engineering projects, manage teams of professional engineers and technicians, and ensure that industrial and manufacturing processes meet rigorous defence standards while maintaining cost-effectiveness and timelines. This role bridges the gap between strategic defence objectives and operational engineering excellence, making it essential to DND's mission. Your responsibilities will include directing the planning and execution of manufacturing engineering projects, establishing engineering standards and best practices, managing budgets and resources, and liaising with senior leadership, external partners, and industry stakeholders. You will work in a dynamic environment where your decisions directly impact the capability and readiness of Canadian Armed Forces equipment and infrastructure. The position requires strong technical expertise combined with proven leadership and project management skills.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of industrial and manufacturing engineering services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the industrial and manufacturing engineering 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
To qualify for this position, you typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering (industrial, manufacturing, mechanical, or related discipline) from a recognized Canadian university or equivalent qualification. Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) certification through Engineers and Geoscientists Canada is highly valued and often required or preferred. Candidates should have extensive experience in industrial or manufacturing engineering roles, progressing through intermediate and senior positions before reaching the director level. Continuous professional development is encouraged and supported through Government of Canada training programs, industry certifications, and participation in professional engineering associations such as PEO (Professional Engineers Ontario) or equivalent provincial bodies. DND provides specialized training in defence procurement, military standards, and government operations to support your transition into the federal public service.
Entry Plans
Entry into this director-level position typically occurs through competitive staffing processes advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank. Most candidates at this level transition from senior engineering roles within DND or other federal departments, or come from private sector engineering leadership positions. The Public Service Commission conducts merit-based competitions to ensure qualified candidates are selected. Lateral moves from related engineering disciplines or from other defence organizations are common pathways. Previous experience in federal public service is advantageous but not always required. External candidates from industry must demonstrate equivalent experience and the ability to meet federal security clearance requirements, typically a Top Secret or Secret clearance depending on the posting. Some positions may be filled through executive recruitment processes for highly specialized expertise.
Part-Time Options
Director-level positions in the federal public service are generally full-time permanent roles due to the strategic and managerial responsibilities involved. However, the Government of Canada is committed to providing flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible. Options such as telework or hybrid work schedules may be available depending on project requirements and management approval. Compressed work weeks or flexible start times may also be negotiated to support work-life balance. Part-time or job-sharing arrangements at the director level are uncommon but may be considered in exceptional circumstances. Employees enjoy standard federal benefits including paid leave, health and wellness programs, and professional development support. Specific flexibility options should be discussed during the staffing process or with your manager once in the role, as they depend on operational needs and the nature of your portfolio.
