As a Director General - Chemical Engineering, you will lead a dynamic team of chemical engineering professionals within the Department of National Defence (DND). In this senior executive role, you are responsible for developing and implementing strategic engineering solutions that support Canada's defence and security objectives. You will oversee complex projects involving chemical processes, materials science, hazardous materials management, and industrial applications that are critical to military operations and infrastructure.
Your responsibilities include directing engineering teams, managing substantial budgets, establishing technical standards and best practices, and ensuring compliance with federal regulations and DND policies. You will collaborate with senior leadership across the department, other government agencies, and external partners to align chemical engineering initiatives with broader defence priorities. This role requires you to make strategic decisions that balance technical excellence, operational requirements, cost-effectiveness, and safety considerations.
You will work in a professional environment that values innovation, rigorous analysis, and evidence-based decision-making. This position offers the opportunity to influence defence policy and strategy while managing teams of highly skilled professionals. The work environment combines office-based strategic planning with site visits to research facilities, operational locations, and industrial partners.
Key Responsibilities
Perform chemical engineering analysis, design, and review, Prepare technical specifications and engineering documents, Conduct inspections, assessments, and quality reviews, Ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
To qualify for this position, you typically need a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or a closely related discipline from a recognized institution. Many successful candidates hold a professional engineer (P.Eng.) designation or are working toward it. Advanced qualifications such as a master's degree or PhD in chemical engineering, materials science, or a related field are advantageous and often expected at this senior level.
Certifications in project management (such as PMP or equivalent), professional engineering credentials, and specialized certifications in areas like process safety management or hazardous materials handling strengthen your candidacy. Once appointed, you will participate in ongoing professional development through DND-sponsored leadership training, executive education programs, and specialized technical courses. The Public Service provides access to learning opportunities in strategic management, financial administration, and public sector governance. Maintaining current knowledge of engineering practices, emerging technologies, and defence sector developments is essential throughout your career.
Entry Plans
Entry into this senior role typically occurs through competitive public service staffing processes. Most candidates progress through several years of increasingly senior chemical engineering and management positions within DND or other federal departments. The typical pathway begins with entry-level or intermediate chemical engineer positions, advancing through senior engineer roles, and progressing to management positions such as Chief or Head of a chemical engineering section or branch before reaching the Director General level.
Positions at this level are usually filled through closed competitions limited to current federal public service employees or through executive search processes. Lateral moves from other federal departments, provincial governments, or the private sector are possible, particularly if you have demonstrated senior leadership experience and relevant expertise. Some candidates may enter DND as chemical engineers through post-secondary recruitment or student programs (such as the Career Assignment Program or Graduate Recruitment Program) and advance over time. Professional networks, publications, and recognition within the engineering community can enhance your competitiveness for these senior appointments.
Part-Time Options
The Director General - Chemical Engineering position is typically a full-time, permanent role. However, the federal Public Service does offer flexible work arrangements on a case-by-case basis, subject to operational requirements and managerial approval. Given the strategic and supervisory nature of this executive position, part-time work is rarely available.
Remote work options may be negotiated for specific tasks such as strategic planning, report writing, and virtual meetings, though regular on-site presence is expected to support team leadership, facility oversight, and stakeholder engagement. DND supports work-life balance initiatives for all employees, including access to leave programs, employee assistance services, and wellness resources. Compressed work weeks or flexible scheduling may be available within limits that do not compromise operational effectiveness and team management responsibilities. Details regarding flexible arrangements should be discussed directly with DND Human Resources during the recruitment and onboarding process.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
