As a Farmer Manager within the Department of National Defence, you oversee agricultural operations that support the environmental sustainability and self-sufficiency goals of DND facilities across Canada. You are responsible for planning, organizing, and directing all aspects of farm operations, including crop production, livestock management, equipment maintenance, and staff supervision. Your work directly contributes to the department's commitment to environmental stewardship and efficient resource management.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include developing and implementing agricultural plans, managing budgets and equipment, supervising and training farm staff, monitoring crop and livestock health, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, and maintaining detailed operational records. You work closely with other departments and external agricultural partners to optimize production efficiency and implement best practices in sustainable farming.
You work in outdoor and indoor environments, managing seasonal operations and adapting to weather conditions. This role requires hands-on involvement in farm operations while maintaining managerial oversight. You may work extended hours during peak agricultural seasons and are expected to be available for emergency situations affecting farm operations.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of agriculture services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the agriculture team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Scientific methodology, Field research, Environmental assessment, Data interpretation, Regulatory compliance, People management, Operational oversight, Quality assurance, Resource coordination
Typical Education
Post-secondary education in the relevant field; supervisory and operational management experience
Training
To qualify for a Farmer Manager position with DND, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with agricultural experience in farm management or related roles. Many successful candidates hold a diploma or degree in agriculture, agribusiness, or farm management from a recognized agricultural college or university.
Key certifications and skills that strengthen your candidacy include a valid driver's license, proficiency with agricultural equipment operation and maintenance, knowledge of crop and livestock management, pesticide applicator certification where applicable, and familiarity with environmental compliance standards. First Aid certification is an asset.
Once hired, you will participate in DND-specific orientation and training covering military culture, security protocols, and facility-specific agricultural operations. The department supports ongoing professional development through workshops, conferences, and certifications related to sustainable agriculture, farm management software, and environmental best practices. You are encouraged to maintain memberships in professional agricultural associations and pursue advanced certifications throughout your career.
Entry Plans
Entry into the Farmer Manager position within DND typically occurs through advertised competitions on the Government of Canada's official jobs website (Canada.ca/jobs). Positions are posted when vacancies arise at DND facilities across the country.
Candidates with relevant agricultural management experience may enter through lateral moves from other federal departments or the private sector. The department also considers candidates from talent pools established following national recruitment campaigns.
Students and recent graduates with agricultural backgrounds should monitor the Public Service Commission's website for student employment programs and entry-level agricultural positions that can lead to management roles. Networking with DND's Human Resources team and staying informed about facility-specific recruitment initiatives can improve your chances of learning about opportunities early.
All candidates must pass a security clearance process and meet the residency requirements for federal employment in Canada.
Part-Time Options
Part-time opportunities for Farmer Manager positions are limited due to the operational demands of farm management, which requires consistent daily oversight of livestock and crop activities. However, the department works with managers to accommodate flexible scheduling where operationally feasible, particularly during off-season periods.
Remote work is not typical for this role, as your presence on-site is essential for managing daily agricultural operations, equipment, and staff supervision. However, administrative and planning components of the role may be conducted from an office setting.
If you require flexibility due to personal circumstances, discuss accommodation options with your DND Human Resources advisor during the hiring process or after employment. The department is committed to supporting work-life balance within operational constraints and may offer arrangements such as flexible start times or compressed work weeks depending on facility needs and collective agreement provisions.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
