As a Manager of Artificial Intelligence Research & Modeling at the Department of National Defence, you will lead a team of AI specialists, data scientists, and researchers in developing and implementing cutting-edge AI solutions to support defence and security objectives. You will be responsible for setting research direction, managing project portfolios, and ensuring that AI initiatives align with departmental strategy and government priorities. This role bridges technical expertise with strategic leadership, requiring you to communicate complex AI concepts to senior leadership while maintaining hands-on understanding of emerging technologies and methodologies.
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include overseeing the design and development of AI models and research initiatives, managing team performance and professional development, allocating resources effectively, and collaborating with other government departments, academic institutions, and industry partners. You will ensure that all AI projects meet rigorous standards for accuracy, ethics, security, and operational effectiveness. Your team will work on diverse challenges ranging from predictive analytics and machine learning applications to natural language processing and autonomous systems research.
You will work in a dynamic, collaborative environment within the Defence research community. This role offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to national security while working with some of Canada's brightest technical minds. You may work in Ottawa or at one of DND's research establishments across Canada, with potential for hybrid work arrangements depending on operational requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of artificial intelligence (ai) strategy & integration services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the artificial intelligence (ai) strategy & integration team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Python/R programming, Machine learning frameworks, Data analysis, Statistical modelling, Critical thinking, People management, Operational oversight, Quality assurance, Resource coordination
Typical Education
Post-secondary education in the relevant field; supervisory and operational management experience
Training
To be successful in this role, you should have a strong educational foundation in computer science, mathematics, statistics, engineering, or a related field, typically at the bachelor's level or higher. Many successful candidates hold master's degrees in AI, Machine Learning, Data Science, or Computer Science. A PhD in a relevant discipline is valued but not always required, particularly if you have substantial industry experience.
Professional certifications in AI, machine learning, cloud platforms, or project management can strengthen your candidacy. Relevant certifications might include those offered by major technology providers (AWS, Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure) or professional organizations focused on AI and data science. You should maintain current knowledge of AI frameworks, programming languages (Python, R, C++), and development tools commonly used in research environments.
DND and the Government of Canada provide ongoing professional development opportunities including access to training programs, conferences, and formal education leave. You will have opportunities to enhance your management skills, stay current with AI advancements, and develop expertise in defence-specific applications of AI. Participation in government-wide learning initiatives and collaboration with academic partners supports continuous professional growth.
Entry Plans
Entry into this managerial role typically occurs through federal public service competitions open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. You may enter as a Manager through several pathways: directly from outside government if you meet the qualifications, through promotion from a senior technical AI specialist or researcher role within DND, or through lateral moves from other government departments with relevant AI or research management experience.
DND regularly posts competitions for management positions on the Government of Canada's official job board (Jobs.gc.ca). These competitions assess your technical knowledge, management capability, leadership experience, and ability to work within the public service context. If you are not currently a federal public servant, you will need to go through the standard hiring process, which includes application review, testing, and interviews.
Students and recent graduates can enter the federal public service through student employment programs or entry-level positions (such as Research Officer or AI Analyst roles), gaining experience and security clearance before applying for management positions. The Public Service Commission oversees these competitions to ensure fairness and merit-based selection. Once hired, you will complete security vetting appropriate to your role's access requirements.
Part-Time Options
Part-time work in this managerial role is limited due to the leadership and coordination responsibilities inherent to the position. However, DND supports flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible. Many management positions offer flexibility in scheduling or compressed work weeks, allowing you to balance work commitments with personal needs.
Remote and hybrid work options are increasingly available for AI Research & Modeling managers, particularly given the nature of research work and the ability to conduct many management functions virtually. The extent of remote work flexibility may depend on your team's location, project requirements, and current departmental policies. You may be required to work on-site for team meetings, collaboration sessions, and specific operational needs while having flexibility for focused research and administrative work from home.
Work-life balance initiatives within the federal public service include access to leave (vacation, sick leave, compassionate leave), parental leave benefits exceeding statutory minimums, and employee assistance programs. DND is committed to supporting employees' wellbeing and accommodating individual circumstances where possible, consistent with operational requirements and collective agreement provisions.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
