As a Manager - Astronomy within the Department of National Defence, you will lead and oversee astronomy research, operations, and teams that contribute to Canada's scientific capabilities and defence objectives. Your role involves managing professional astronomers, technicians, and support staff while ensuring the delivery of high-quality research outcomes and maintaining alignment with departmental priorities. You will be responsible for strategic planning, budget management, personnel development, and fostering a collaborative environment that encourages scientific excellence and innovation.
In this position, you will supervise the daily operations of astronomy units, laboratories, or observatories, ensuring compliance with federal standards and best practices in scientific research. Your responsibilities include evaluating team performance, identifying training and development needs, and mentoring staff to advance their careers. You will also represent your team in interdepartmental meetings, coordinate with external research institutions and international partners, and contribute to long-term strategic initiatives that support Canada's defence and security interests through space-based and astronomical science.
You will work in a dynamic, intellectually stimulating environment where precision, analytical thinking, and leadership are essential. Your work may involve travel to research facilities, conferences, and collaborative meetings across Canada and internationally. This position requires the ability to balance scientific integrity with operational efficiency, manage competing priorities, and communicate complex astronomical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of astronomy services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the astronomy 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 design, Statistical analysis, Laboratory techniques, Scientific writing, Data interpretation, 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 bachelor's degree in astronomy, physics, astrophysics, or a closely related scientific discipline. Many successful candidates hold a master's degree or PhD in astronomy or a related field, which provides advanced technical expertise and research experience. You should have demonstrated experience in research, data analysis, and scientific project management, along with a track record of leadership in technical or scientific environments.
Professional certifications are not typically required for this role, but membership in professional organizations such as the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada or the International Astronomical Union is valued. Once hired, you will have access to ongoing professional development opportunities through the Public Service Learning Program, including courses in people management, federal budgeting, project management, and scientific leadership. DND also supports attendance at international conferences, workshops, and collaborative research initiatives to keep you current with advances in astronomy and related fields. Continuous learning in emerging technologies, data science applications, and space domain awareness is encouraged throughout your career.
Entry Plans
Entry into the Manager - Astronomy position in the DND Civilian Workforce typically occurs through federal Public Service staffing competitions. These competitions are advertised on the Government of Canada's official job board (jobs.gc.ca) and are open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and members of the Canadian Armed Forces.
If you are already working in the federal Public Service, you may be eligible to apply as an internal candidate, which can streamline the application process. External candidates with strong credentials in astronomy and management experience are encouraged to apply when competitions are posted. Some positions may be filled through lateral moves if you are currently employed in a scientific or technical role elsewhere in government and possess management capabilities.
DND may also recruit through targeted outreach to universities, research institutions, and professional networks to identify highly qualified astronomers ready for management roles. If you are a recent graduate or early-career scientist, entry-level astronomy positions may be available that can lead to management track opportunities as you gain experience and demonstrate leadership potential. Applicants should be prepared to undergo security screening and meet DND-specific requirements, which may include a reliability clearance or higher depending on the work environment.
Part-Time Options
Part-time employment opportunities for Manager - Astronomy positions are limited, as managerial roles typically require full-time commitment to supervisory responsibilities, budget oversight, and strategic planning. However, the DND Civilian Workforce does support flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible.
Remote and hybrid work options may be available for portions of your week, particularly for administrative tasks, report writing, and virtual meetings with team members or external partners. The extent of remote work eligibility depends on your specific duties, security requirements, and operational needs of your unit. During field work at observatories or research facilities, on-site presence is generally required.
If you require part-time work arrangements due to personal circumstances, you are encouraged to discuss options with the hiring manager or HR representative during the recruitment process or after being hired. Compressed work weeks, job sharing, or phased retirement arrangements may be considered on a case-by-case basis. All flexible work arrangements must maintain service delivery standards and comply with DND policies. For the most current information on part-time and flexible work eligibility, consult the relevant DND civilian HR office or visit the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat's policies on flexible work in the federal Public Service.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
