As a Manager in Agriculture, you lead and oversee agricultural operations, research initiatives, or program delivery within Department of National Defence civilian operations. You are responsible for planning, organizing, and directing agricultural activities that support DND operations, sustainability goals, and food security mandates. Your work ensures compliance with federal environmental standards, agricultural best practices, and operational efficiency across farm operations, research facilities, or agricultural resource management programs.
In this role, you manage teams of agricultural specialists, technicians, and support staff. You develop budgets, implement strategic plans, monitor performance metrics, and make decisions that balance operational needs with environmental stewardship. You may oversee crop production, livestock management, soil conservation, pest management, or research projects depending on your posting location and departmental priorities.
You work in diverse environments ranging from office settings where you handle administrative and planning duties, to field locations where you oversee active agricultural operations. The role requires strong problem-solving skills, leadership capabilities, and a commitment to sustainable agricultural practices within federal 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
Minimum requirements typically include a bachelor's degree in agriculture, agricultural science, environmental science, or a related field. Some positions may accept equivalent work experience in agricultural management or operations. Professional certification as an agronomist (P.Ag.) from a provincial or national agricultural association is highly valued and may be required depending on the specific position and province.
Ongoing professional development is encouraged through workshops on agricultural innovation, environmental compliance, leadership skills, and emerging agricultural technologies. DND provides access to training programs on federal procurement, project management, and civilian workforce policies. You may pursue additional certifications in organic farming practices, sustainable agriculture, or specialized areas such as precision agriculture or agroforestry. Membership in professional associations like the Canadian Society of Agronomy or provincial agricultural institutes is recommended to maintain current knowledge and industry connections.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways within the federal Public Service. The primary route is through a public competition advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website, where candidates with relevant agricultural education and management experience can apply. These competitions are typically open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
Lateral moves from other agricultural roles within DND or other federal departments (such as Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) are common for individuals with established management experience. Some positions may be filled through internal Public Service competitions restricted to current federal employees. Recent graduates with agricultural degrees may enter through student recruitment programs or start in junior agricultural specialist positions with pathways to management roles as they gain experience and complete management training.
If you are already a DND civilian employee, you can apply for posted vacancies through internal competitions or expression of interest processes. External candidates should monitor the Government of Canada Jobs website for postings and ensure their application materials clearly demonstrate agricultural expertise, supervisory experience, and alignment with DND's operational needs.
Part-Time Options
Part-time opportunities in Manager - Agriculture positions are limited due to the supervisory and operational nature of the role. However, some administrative or planning-focused aspects of the position may be eligible for part-time arrangements depending on departmental needs and union agreements.
Flexible work arrangements such as flexible hours or compressed work weeks may be available in certain circumstances, particularly for duties involving planning, budgeting, or reporting. Remote work is generally not suitable for this role given the requirement to oversee field operations and manage on-site agricultural activities, though some administrative work may be completed remotely.
Employees are encouraged to discuss flexible work options with their manager and Human Resources representative. Availability of part-time or flexible arrangements depends on operational requirements, team structure, and the specific location of the position. DND remains committed to work-life balance and supporting employees where operationally feasible.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
