As a Director of Mining Engineering with the Department of National Defence, you will lead engineering teams responsible for mining-related projects, operations, and strategic initiatives that support defence capabilities and infrastructure. You will provide expert technical direction, manage complex engineering programs, and ensure alignment with departmental objectives and government priorities. This role combines hands-on engineering expertise with people management and strategic planning.
Your responsibilities will include overseeing the planning, design, and execution of mining engineering projects; managing budgets and resources; mentoring and developing engineering staff; liaising with external stakeholders including other government departments, industry partners, and international organizations; and ensuring compliance with environmental, safety, and regulatory standards. You will make recommendations on technical matters, contribute to policy development, and represent the department in professional and technical forums.
You will work in a professional environment that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. The role offers opportunities to apply your engineering knowledge to meaningful defence and national security objectives while contributing to a team committed to excellence and public service.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of mining engineering services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the mining 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 succeed as a Director of Mining Engineering, you will typically hold a bachelor's degree in mining engineering, geological engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline from a recognized institution. Professional Engineering (PE) or Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) designation is highly desirable and may be required depending on the specific position and jurisdiction.
You should have substantial experience in mining engineering practice, project management, and progressively responsible roles demonstrating leadership capability. Relevant certifications in occupational health and safety, environmental management, or project management (such as PMP) are advantageous.
Once hired, the Government of Canada supports your ongoing professional development through training programs, conferences, workshops, and tuition support for additional qualifications. You are encouraged to maintain your professional engineering credentials and pursue continuing education in emerging mining technologies, sustainable practices, and leadership development.
Entry Plans
Entry to this director-level position typically occurs through one of several pathways within the federal Public Service:
**External Competitions**: DND posts open competitions for Director positions advertised on the Government of Canada's official job board (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents and follow Treasury Board Secretariat staffing guidelines.
**Internal Advancement**: Current DND employees working in mining engineering or related roles at the senior level may apply for promotion competitions when positions become available. Your progression typically moves from engineer roles through senior engineer and manager positions to director level.
**Lateral Moves**: Professionals from other government departments with equivalent mining engineering management experience and demonstrated leadership may transfer laterally into this role through internal government processes.
**Pools and Registers**: Successful candidates from previous competitions may be placed on staffing pools or registers for future placements as vacancies arise.
All candidates must obtain or maintain a Government of Canada security clearance appropriate to the role and pass a thorough background check. Most DND positions require at least a Secret clearance.
Part-Time Options
Part-time arrangements for a Director-level position are limited but may be available on a case-by-case basis depending on operational requirements and departmental needs. Any part-time arrangement would require approval from senior management and would typically involve modified responsibilities while maintaining core leadership and strategic functions.
Flexible work options, including flexible hours and remote work, have become more common across the federal Public Service, including DND. Many director-level roles now support hybrid work arrangements that balance in-person collaboration and strategic presence with remote work flexibility. The specific arrangement depends on the nature of your project portfolio, team location, stakeholder engagement requirements, and management approval.
Telework and flexible schedules are subject to departmental policy, operational necessity, and agreement with your manager. DND encourages work-life balance while ensuring continuity of service delivery and team effectiveness. Discuss specific flexibility options during your recruitment process and once hired, as arrangements can be negotiated based on role requirements and performance.
