Glass-forming Machine Operators in the Department of National Defence operate and maintain specialized machinery used in glass forming and finishing processes. These skilled trades professionals are essential to production operations, ensuring glass products meet quality standards while maintaining safe working conditions. As a Glass-forming Machine Operator, you'll be responsible for setting up machines, monitoring production runs, making adjustments to equipment, and performing quality control checks on finished products.
Your day-to-day work involves tasks such as loading raw materials, operating control panels, adjusting machine parameters, and troubleshooting equipment issues. You'll work closely with supervisors, quality control specialists, and other trades personnel to meet production schedules and maintain workplace safety standards. This role requires attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work in a structured production environment.
Glass-forming Machine Operators typically work in manufacturing facilities or specialized production environments within DND. The work may involve shifts, including early mornings, evenings, or weekend work depending on production demands. You'll need to be comfortable with repetitive tasks, machinery operation, and maintaining focus on safety and quality throughout your shift.
Key Responsibilities
Perform machining and shaping tasks maintaining government facilities and assets, Operate tools, equipment, and machinery safely, Follow technical specifications and safety procedures, Maintain records of work performed and materials used
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify as a Glass-forming Machine Operator with the Government of Canada, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Previous experience operating industrial machinery or completing formal trades training in glass manufacturing is highly valued. Many successful candidates have completed apprenticeships or technical training programs in machining, manufacturing, or related trades.
Once hired, you'll receive on-the-job training specific to DND equipment and processes, including machinery operation, safety protocols, quality control procedures, and maintenance basics. The department supports continuing professional development through access to technical certifications, equipment-specific training, and advancement opportunities into supervisory or specialized technical roles. Some positions may require or lead to certification through provincial trades organizations or industry bodies related to glass manufacturing and machine operation.
Entry Plans
You can pursue a Glass-forming Machine Operator position in the Department of National Defence through several pathways. The primary route is through open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank and the DND Civilian Careers portal. These competitions typically welcome both Canadian citizens and permanent residents with relevant experience or training.
Lateral moves from other trades or labour positions within the federal public service are also possible if you have transferable machinery operation skills. If you're currently employed in another Government of Canada department, you may apply through internal mobility processes. Students and recent graduates can explore opportunities through DND's student employment programs and apprenticeship initiatives, which provide pathways to permanent positions. Priority may be given to Canadian Armed Forces veterans and members of designated employment equity groups as per Treasury Board policies.
Part-Time Options
Glass-forming Machine Operator positions in DND are typically full-time, permanent roles given the production-focused nature of the work and the need for consistent staffing. However, the federal public service does offer flexible work arrangements in some circumstances. Depending on operational requirements and management approval, part-time or job-sharing options may be available, though these are less common in production environments where continuous machine operation is needed.
Remote work is not applicable to this role due to the requirement to physically operate machinery and be present in the production facility. The position may offer shift flexibility in terms of scheduling (day shifts, evening shifts, or rotating schedules), which can accommodate different personal preferences. When considering this career, it's best to discuss specific scheduling and flexibility options with the hiring manager or human resources representative during your application process, as arrangements vary by location and operational needs.
