As a Manager - Arts and Social Sciences, you will lead teams responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing programs and initiatives in cultural institutions, archives, libraries, museums, or similar environments within the Department of National Defence. You will provide strategic direction, manage budgets, supervise staff, and ensure alignment with organizational objectives while maintaining the highest standards of professional practice in your field.
Your responsibilities will include planning and executing arts and social sciences programs, managing collections or resources, developing policies and procedures, and fostering collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders. You will be accountable for team performance, staff development, and the delivery of services that support the broader mission of DND and the Canadian Armed Forces.
This role operates within a diverse, dynamic work environment where you will apply your expertise in the arts, social sciences, or cultural sector to contribute meaningfully to institutional goals. You may work across multiple locations or manage remote team members, and you will engage with colleagues at all organizational levels to advance departmental priorities.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of general arts and social sciences services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the general arts and social sciences team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Research methodology, Analytical thinking, Written communication, Policy analysis, Critical reasoning, 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 this position, you typically need a university degree in a relevant field such as library science, archival studies, museum studies, history, fine arts, sociology, or a related discipline. Many candidates hold a Master's degree in library and information science, museum studies, or a specialized arts and social sciences discipline.
Professional certifications relevant to your specialty are valued, such as certification from the Canadian Library Association, the Association of Canadian Archivists, or the Canadian Museums Association. The Government of Canada provides ongoing professional development opportunities, including training in public service management, leadership, financial administration, and sector-specific knowledge. You will be expected to maintain currency in your professional field and may pursue additional credentials throughout your career with DND.
Entry Plans
Entry into this position typically occurs through a competitive job competition advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website. Candidates may apply directly to open competitions at the Manager level, or transition from related positions within the Public Service through internal competitions or lateral moves.
If you are early in your career, you may enter through student programs such as the Federal Student Work Experience Program or post-secondary recruitment initiatives, which can lead to permanent positions. Alternatively, you can work your way up from specialist or coordinator roles in arts and social sciences fields and apply for management competitions as you gain experience.
The Public Service Commission manages all competitions and ensures fair, merit-based selection. Preference may be given to current Public Service employees, Canadian Armed Forces members, veterans, and other designated groups as outlined in each competition notice.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for this position depending on operational requirements and departmental needs. Many managers in arts and social sciences roles at DND have negotiated flexible schedules, including compressed work weeks or part-time hours, though the availability of these options may vary by location and team.
Remote work is increasingly common in this field, particularly for roles focused on policy development, collections management, or program coordination. However, some responsibilities—such as team supervision, stakeholder meetings, or on-site program delivery—may require regular workplace presence. The specific flexibility available will be discussed during the hiring process and may be adjusted based on business needs and individual circumstances. We encourage candidates to discuss work arrangement preferences with their hiring manager.
