Government of Canada / Gouvernement du Canada

Director General - Oil and Gas

NOC 15 Oil and Gas Director General, Executive Director or equivalent Non-Digital
Apply

Overview

As a Director General in Oil and Gas, you provide strategic leadership and executive direction for major oil and gas initiatives within the Department of National Defence. You oversee complex projects, manage substantial budgets, and lead teams of professionals across multiple disciplines. Your role bridges defence capabilities with energy sector expertise, ensuring DND's oil and gas operations align with federal environmental standards and national security objectives. Your responsibilities include developing and implementing strategic plans, managing stakeholder relationships with industry partners and government agencies, ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving organizational performance. You make key decisions on resource allocation, project priorities, and operational policies. You also represent the department in high-level discussions with external partners, including provincial governments, industry leaders, and international counterparts. You work in a dynamic federal environment where you collaborate with other government departments, military leadership, and private sector experts. The role requires strong analytical skills, business acumen, and the ability to navigate complex policy landscapes. You contribute to Canada's defence readiness while managing environmental responsibilities and advancing departmental objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct oil and gas research, monitoring, and analysis, Collect and interpret environmental or scientific data, Prepare technical reports and recommendations, Support regulatory compliance and stewardship programs

Required Skills

Scientific methodology, Field research, Environmental assessment, Data interpretation, Regulatory compliance, Relevant technical skills, Communication, Teamwork, Problem-solving

Typical Education

Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements

Training

To succeed in this role, you typically need a university degree in engineering, environmental science, business administration, or a related field. Many candidates have advanced credentials such as a Master's degree or MBA. Professional certifications relevant to oil and gas operations, environmental management, or project management are valuable. Throughout your career, you will participate in ongoing professional development including executive leadership training, strategic management programs, and specialized courses in energy policy and environmental regulation. The Public Service offers development opportunities through the Canada School of Public Service and departmental learning initiatives. You are expected to maintain current knowledge of industry standards, federal legislation, and emerging technologies in the oil and gas sector.

Entry Plans

Entry to this Director General level position typically occurs through federal public service competitions open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and those with protected status. Most candidates have progressed through senior management roles within DND or other government departments, building expertise in operations, project management, and leadership. You may enter this career stream through several pathways: lateral moves from comparable executive positions in other departments, internal advancement from senior manager roles, or external recruitment of candidates with significant private sector experience in oil and gas or related industries. Some candidates participate in executive development programs designed to prepare high-potential managers for senior leadership roles. Competitions are advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website. Successful candidates must pass security clearances and demonstrate executive competencies required for senior government positions.

Part-Time Options

Director General positions are typically full-time, permanent roles due to the strategic nature of the work and the need for consistent executive leadership. However, the Public Service recognizes flexibility in how work is organized. Depending on departmental needs and individual circumstances, some flexible arrangements may be negotiated, such as modified work schedules or hybrid work options combining office and remote work. Remote work capabilities have expanded across the Public Service, and you may have opportunities to work from home on certain days while maintaining your executive presence at key meetings and departmental events. Any part-time or flexible arrangements would be determined through discussion with your manager and senior leadership, taking into account operational requirements, team dynamics, and the strategic nature of your responsibilities. The emphasis remains on meeting departmental objectives and maintaining effective leadership presence.