As a Director General - Infrastructure Operations, you lead a large team responsible for planning, delivering, and maintaining the technology infrastructure that supports Department of National Defence operations across Canada and beyond. This is a senior executive role where you set strategic direction for IT infrastructure, manage complex budgets, and ensure systems are reliable, secure, and aligned with departmental priorities.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include overseeing infrastructure planning and modernization initiatives, managing relationships with internal stakeholders and external technology partners, directing incident response and system resilience efforts, and ensuring compliance with government security and accessibility standards. You'll make decisions that affect thousands of users and mission-critical systems.
You work in a dynamic environment where technology constantly evolves and security threats require immediate attention. Your work has real impact on DND's ability to protect Canada and support its personnel worldwide. You'll collaborate with other senior leaders across defence, Treasury Board, and other government departments on shared technology challenges.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver infrastructure operations services supporting GC digital operations, Develop, configure, and maintain IT systems and infrastructure, Troubleshoot technical issues and provide user support, Document technical solutions and maintain system records
Required Skills
Systems administration, Programming/scripting, Network and security, Cloud technologies, ITIL/ITSM practices, Relevant technical skills, Communication, Teamwork, Problem-solving
Typical Education
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
To be competitive for this role, you typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, engineering, business administration, or a related field. Many candidates have completed graduate studies in business administration (MBA), public administration, or technology leadership.
Professional certifications strengthen your candidacy. Relevant credentials include PMP (Project Management Professional), ITIL Foundation or higher, CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), or vendor certifications from major cloud and infrastructure providers.
Government of Canada positions require an understanding of Treasury Board policies, federal security requirements, and public service values. Professional development in government management, financial stewardship, and federal procurement is valuable. Many successful candidates participate in executive leadership programs through the Public Service Commission or university-based executive education. Continuous learning in emerging technologies like cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data management is essential.
Entry Plans
Most Director General positions are filled through public competitions open to Canadian citizens. These competitions are posted on the Public Service Commission's job board and departmental websites. You typically need substantial experience in progressively senior IT and infrastructure roles before being competitive for a Director General position.
Common pathways include: starting as an IT professional (such as a Systems Administrator or Network Administrator), advancing to management roles (IT Manager, Senior IT Manager), then moving into director-level positions (Director of IT Operations, Executive Director) before competing for Director General roles. Some candidates transition laterally from other federal departments or private sector organizations with equivalent experience.
The federal government also uses closed competitions and staffing pools for senior positions, particularly for candidates already working in the Public Service. If you're currently a federal employee, you may be eligible to apply to internal competitions that aren't open to the public.
Military background isn't required, but many successful candidates have worked with DND previously or have experience supporting defence or security-focused organizations. Student recruitment programs and co-op positions provide entry points if you're early in your career.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are typically full-time, permanent roles due to the strategic and executive nature of the work. However, the federal government is increasingly flexible about how work is delivered.
Remote and hybrid work arrangements are common for this role, particularly for non-classified duties. Many DND infrastructure teams operate hybrid models where staff spend some days in the office for collaboration and critical work, and other days working from approved locations. The extent of remote work may depend on security clearance requirements and the sensitivity of your specific duties.
The Government of Canada offers flexible work options including compressed work weeks and flexible hours for management-level positions, subject to operational requirements. As a senior leader, you'd be expected to maintain availability for emergencies and critical incidents, which may occasionally require extended hours.
Leave entitlements for federal employees are generous, including vacation days, sick leave, and family-related leave. The federal government also supports work-life balance through programs like wellness initiatives and employee assistance services. Specific arrangements would be discussed with your hiring manager and aligned with departmental operational needs.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
