As a Director - Science and Math, you provide strategic leadership and direction to science and mathematics programs and initiatives across the Department of National Defence. You oversee the development, implementation, and evaluation of policies, strategies, and operations related to scientific research, mathematical analysis, and technical expertise that support defence capabilities and organizational objectives. This senior management role requires you to translate complex scientific concepts into actionable defence strategies while fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
Your responsibilities include managing teams of scientists, mathematicians, and technical specialists; allocating resources and budgets to research and development projects; ensuring compliance with federal and departmental standards; and collaborating with internal stakeholders, other government departments, and external research institutions. You serve as a subject matter expert and advisor on science and mathematics matters, contributing to high-level decision-making processes that impact national defence and security.
You work in a dynamic environment where scientific rigor meets operational necessity. Your position typically involves a mix of office-based work, attending meetings and briefings, and engaging with research teams. You may oversee multiple locations or virtual teams, and you'll regularly communicate findings and recommendations to senior leadership and external partners.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of general science and math services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the general science and math team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Research design, Statistical analysis, Laboratory techniques, Scientific writing, Data interpretation, 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 university degree in a science or mathematics discipline (such as physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, engineering, or computer science) from an accredited institution. Many successful candidates hold advanced degrees (Master's or PhD) in their field of expertise.
Beyond formal education, you should have a strong foundation in scientific methodology, research design, and data analysis. Professional certifications relevant to your scientific discipline are valued. Ongoing professional development is essential in this role—you're expected to maintain currency in your field through conferences, workshops, and continuing education programs. The Public Service also offers leadership development programs, project management training, and courses on federal policy and governance to support your growth as a director. DND provides access to professional associations and scientific publications to help you stay informed of advances in your area of expertise.
Entry Plans
Most directors in the Public Service enter through formal, competitive recruitment processes. Typically, you would apply for advertised Director-level positions through the Government of Canada Jobs website. Selection processes usually include a detailed application, technical assessments, and interviews that evaluate your scientific expertise, leadership experience, and strategic thinking.
Many candidates progress into director roles through lateral moves after working in senior scientist or manager positions (such as Senior Scientist, Manager - Science and Math, or equivalent roles) within DND or other federal departments. This internal pathway allows you to develop departmental knowledge and demonstrate your leadership capabilities before advancing to director level.
The Public Service may also use talent pools or inventory systems to identify qualified candidates for future director opportunities, particularly those with specialized scientific backgrounds or proven management track records. Networking within DND and attending career development sessions can help you understand upcoming opportunities and prepare for advancement. External recruitment is also conducted when specialized expertise or fresh perspectives are needed.
Part-Time Options
Director-level positions are typically full-time due to the strategic and supervisory nature of the role. However, the Public Service has implemented flexible work arrangements that may apply in specific circumstances.
Remote work options have expanded across DND, and depending on your directorate's mandate and operational requirements, you may have opportunities to work remotely for portions of your week, particularly for administrative tasks, analysis, and virtual meetings. This flexibility must be balanced with your need to be present for team leadership, in-person collaboration with stakeholders, and operational requirements.
If you require part-time arrangements due to personal circumstances, you would need to discuss this with your manager and departmental Human Resources. Such arrangements are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and depend on operational needs and the ability to fulfill all director-level responsibilities. Most directors maintain a standard full-time schedule to effectively lead their teams and contribute to strategic planning and decision-making processes.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
