As a Director General in Mining Engineering, you will provide strategic leadership and executive direction to mining engineering programs, projects, and teams within the Department of National Defence. In this senior management role, you are responsible for setting the vision and priorities for mining engineering initiatives that support Canada's defence and security objectives. You will oversee large-scale engineering projects, manage substantial budgets, and ensure that mining engineering operations meet the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and innovation.
Your responsibilities include developing and implementing mining engineering policies and strategies, leading cross-functional teams, managing stakeholder relationships with internal and external partners, and ensuring compliance with federal regulations and professional standards. You will be expected to make critical decisions that impact organizational direction, resource allocation, and project outcomes. This role requires you to stay current with emerging technologies and industry best practices while maintaining operational excellence across all mining engineering activities.
You will work in a dynamic federal environment where your technical expertise and leadership capabilities directly contribute to Canada's operational readiness and strategic priorities. This position offers the opportunity to influence policy at the executive level, mentor senior engineering professionals, and shape the future of mining engineering within the Department of National Defence.
Key Responsibilities
Perform mining 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 mining engineering or a closely related engineering discipline from a Canadian university or equivalent credential. Professional certification as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) or a commitment to obtaining it is usually required. Many candidates hold a master's degree or professional designation in a specialized area of mining engineering.
Once appointed, you will have access to ongoing professional development opportunities including executive leadership programs, specialized technical training, and professional conference attendance. The Government of Canada supports continuous learning through tuition assistance programs and professional membership fees for relevant engineering associations. You may also pursue additional certifications in areas such as project management (PMP), occupational health and safety, or environmental management to enhance your executive capabilities.
Entry Plans
Entry to this senior executive position typically occurs through competitive selection processes managed by the Public Service Commission. Most candidates reach this level after progressing through intermediate and senior engineering positions within the federal government or the private sector. You may enter through:
• Executive recruitment competitions specific to this Director General level
• Lateral transfers from other federal departments or agencies where you have demonstrated executive-level experience
• External recruitment when specialized expertise is required
• Merit-based advancement from lower-classified engineering management positions within DND
Candidates are expected to have substantial experience in mining engineering management, a track record of successful project delivery, demonstrated leadership capabilities, and a deep understanding of federal government operations. Competition results are valid for one year and may be used to fill multiple positions across the Public Service.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are typically full-time roles due to the strategic and executive nature of the responsibilities. However, the Government of Canada recognizes the importance of work-life balance for all employees. Depending on operational requirements and management agreement, flexible work arrangements such as flexible hours or hybrid remote work may be negotiable. Part-time or job-sharing options are uncommon at the executive level but may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Remote work options may be available for specific duties or meetings, particularly as government technology infrastructure continues to evolve. Any flexible arrangements would be discussed during the hiring process and formalized in your employment agreement. The Department of National Defence prioritizes employee wellness and may offer additional supports such as access to Employee Assistance Programs and wellness initiatives to help maintain work-life balance at the executive level.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
