Managers - Administration provide leadership and direction to administration teams within Department of National Defence (DND) units and organizations. They oversee the day-to-day administrative operations that support military and civilian personnel, ensuring efficient delivery of services such as human resources support, financial administration, records management, and general office operations. These managers play a critical role in maintaining the administrative backbone that enables DND to function effectively.
Responsibilities include managing staff, planning and organizing administrative workflows, monitoring performance against established standards, and implementing process improvements. Managers - Administration also serve as a liaison between their teams and senior leadership, communicating priorities and escalating issues as needed. They ensure compliance with Treasury Board policies, DND directives, and federal legislation while maintaining professional standards and supporting a positive workplace culture.
These roles are found across DND locations, from major bases and headquarters to smaller field units. The work environment is typically office-based, though some positions may require occasional travel or shift-based scheduling depending on the operational needs of the unit.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of general administration services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the general administration team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Organizational skills, Written and oral communication, MS Office proficiency, Time management, Attention to detail, People management, Operational oversight, Quality assurance, Resource coordination
Typical Education
Post-secondary education in the relevant field; supervisory and operational management experience
Training
Candidates typically have a high school diploma or equivalent, with many holding college or university credentials in business administration, public administration, or related fields. Government of Canada experience is valued, as familiarity with federal policies and systems accelerates productivity.
Once hired, new Managers - Administration receive training on DND-specific systems, policies, and procedures relevant to their posting. Professional development opportunities include Treasury Board management training, leadership development programs, and certifications in areas such as project management or financial administration. The Public Service Learning Portal and departmental training programs provide ongoing access to courses supporting career growth and skill development in areas like human resources management, process improvement, and digital tools.
Entry Plans
Entry into a Manager - Administration position typically occurs through federal government job competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank. Candidates may apply directly to advertised positions or join recruitment pools created for multiple vacancies. Previous experience in federal administration or related private sector roles is usually required.
Lateral movement from other administrative positions within the Public Service is common, allowing experienced administrative professionals to transition into management roles. Some candidates progress through administrative support positions (such as Administrative Assistant or Administrative Officer roles) and apply for manager positions as they gain experience. Student or early-career programs may also provide pathways into the federal Public Service, though entry to management positions generally requires several years of administrative background. Bridging from contract or term positions to permanent appointments is another route some candidates follow.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements may be available depending on operational requirements and the specific unit's needs. Many administrative positions within DND support hybrid or flexible schedules, allowing managers and their teams to balance office-based work with remote work where duties permit. However, the availability of flexible arrangements varies by location and organizational priorities.
Managers should discuss flexible work options with their hiring manager and Human Resources advisor during the recruitment process or after appointment. DND follows Treasury Board guidelines on flexible work, which emphasize maintaining service delivery while supporting employee wellbeing. Some positions may require core hours on-site due to the nature of administrative support for operational units, particularly those supporting 24/7 military operations.
