As a Director of Non-Academic Teaching and Training, you will lead and manage training and educational programs across the Department of National Defence. You will be responsible for developing curriculum, overseeing instructional delivery, managing training budgets, and ensuring programs meet organizational and operational needs. This role combines strategic planning with hands-on involvement in educational excellence. You will work with subject matter experts, instructors, and stakeholders to design and implement effective training solutions that support military readiness and personnel development.
In this position, you will manage teams of instructors, course developers, and support staff. Your responsibilities include program evaluation, quality assurance, compliance with training standards, and continuous improvement of educational delivery methods. You may oversee multiple training facilities or programs, each serving different audiences from junior personnel to senior military members. You will also collaborate with other government departments and external educational institutions to leverage expertise and best practices.
You will work in a dynamic environment where training needs evolve with operational requirements and technological advances. Your position requires strong leadership skills, strategic thinking, and a commitment to developing Canada's military personnel. The work is both challenging and rewarding, contributing directly to the effectiveness and professionalism of the Canadian Armed Forces.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of non-academic teaching and training services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the non-academic teaching and training team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
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 from a recognized university. Many successful candidates hold degrees in education, instructional design, military science, business administration, or related disciplines. Some positions may accept equivalent work experience in lieu of formal education.
Professional certifications can enhance your qualifications. Consider obtaining credentials in instructional design, adult education, project management (such as PMP), or training program evaluation. Many Directors pursue graduate studies in education, organizational development, or public administration.
The Government of Canada supports ongoing professional development. Once hired, you may access training in leadership, change management, government processes, and emerging educational technologies. Internal DND programs and external partnerships provide opportunities to develop expertise in military training and doctrine. Mentorship from senior leaders and participation in professional associations in education and training are also valuable for career growth.
Entry Plans
Entry to this career in the federal Public Service typically occurs through advertised competitions. The DND Human Resources team posts positions on the Government of Canada Job Bank and the DND careers website. Candidates apply directly and compete through a selection process that includes written assessments, interviews, and reference checks.
If you are already a member of the federal Public Service in another department or classification, you may apply as an internal candidate. Internal competitions often have more favourable timelines and may include priority consideration. Some positions are filled through lateral moves where candidates transfer from similar roles in other departments or from other positions within DND.
The Public Service may also use inventory systems or talent pools to identify qualified candidates for future vacancies. Registering in relevant pools when they are open increases your visibility to hiring managers. Contract or term positions occasionally serve as entry points, potentially leading to permanent roles if your performance is strong and a permanent vacancy arises.
Students and recent graduates may find opportunities through the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or the Post-Secondary Recruitment Program (PSRP). These programs allow you to gain federal government experience and demonstrate your capabilities, which can lead to permanent positions once you complete your education.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements vary by position and operational requirements. Many Director-level roles are full-time positions due to the management and strategic responsibilities involved. However, some training facilities or program areas may offer part-time opportunities on a case-by-case basis.
Remote work is increasingly available in the federal Public Service, depending on the nature of your duties. If your role involves curriculum development, strategic planning, or administrative management, you may have the flexibility to work remotely for portions of your week. However, instructional oversight and team management typically require on-site presence at training facilities.
Flex time options may be negotiated with your manager within operational constraints. Given that military training often operates on regular schedules and may include evening or weekend sessions, your work hours may not follow a standard Monday-to-Friday routine. Discuss specific flexibility options with your hiring manager and the DND Human Resources office when you receive a job offer. The federal Public Service is committed to supporting work-life balance while meeting operational needs.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
