As a Manager in Atmospheric Science, you lead teams of scientific professionals conducting research, analysis, and operations in meteorology, atmospheric physics, and related disciplines. You are responsible for directing scientific projects, managing budgets and resources, and ensuring your team delivers high-quality atmospheric science services that support DND operations, public safety, and Canadian defence priorities. Your work environment includes both office-based management and engagement with field operations, research facilities, and partner organizations across Canada and internationally.
You combine scientific expertise with people leadership, making decisions about research direction, resource allocation, and personnel development. You mentor atmospheric scientists and technicians, oversee quality assurance of scientific outputs, and represent your team's work to senior leadership and stakeholders. This role requires strong communication skills to translate complex scientific findings into actionable intelligence for defence and security decision-makers.
DND's atmospheric science teams work on weather prediction, climate analysis, air quality monitoring, and environmental intelligence that directly impact military operations and strategic planning. As a manager, you ensure these critical functions operate effectively while fostering innovation and maintaining the highest scientific standards.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of atmospheric science services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the atmospheric science 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
You typically hold a bachelor's degree in atmospheric science, meteorology, physics, mathematics, or a closely related discipline. Many managers progress to this level with a master's degree in atmospheric science or a specialized field like atmospheric dynamics, weather prediction, or climate science. Professional certifications such as membership in professional meteorological or atmospheric associations (like the Canadian Meteorological and Oceanographic Society) are valued.
Continuing professional development is essential in this role. DND supports training in scientific leadership, project management, and emerging atmospheric science technologies. You may pursue advanced certifications in specialized areas such as numerical weather prediction, remote sensing, or air quality modeling. Federal public service management training, including courses on Government of Canada HR policies and Treasury Board directives, is typically completed upon appointment to a management position.
Entry Plans
Entry to a Manager position in Atmospheric Science typically requires previous experience as an Atmospheric Scientist or in a related scientific role within the federal public service. DND posts Manager positions through public competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's Job Bank (jobs.gc.ca) and internally through the Public Service Commission.
You may enter this career path through several routes: completing a science degree and joining DND as an Atmospheric Scientist, then advancing to a manager role after demonstrating leadership capability and scientific expertise; lateral transfer from another federal science department (such as Environment and Climate Change Canada or National Research Council); or external recruitment directly to the Manager level if you bring equivalent management experience from the private sector or academia.
The Canadian Armed Forces also offers student programs and internships in atmospheric science that can lead to permanent employment and career progression. Networking with DND's atmospheric science teams and professional participation in meteorological organizations can increase visibility for advancement opportunities.
Part-Time Options
Manager positions in Atmospheric Science are typically full-time roles due to the supervisory and operational responsibilities involved. However, DND is increasingly flexible with alternative work arrangements.
Remote and hybrid work options are available for portions of your management duties, particularly administrative tasks, planning, and internal meetings. Some manager responsibilities—such as team supervision, facility oversight, and field engagement—may require on-site presence. Flexible hours may be negotiated within operational requirements, allowing you to balance work schedules around core business hours.
Job sharing and compressed work weeks are occasionally available depending on operational needs and the availability of qualified personnel to share the role. Discussions about flexible arrangements typically occur during the hiring process or shortly after appointment. DND's commitment to work-life balance means these options are considered where they do not compromise scientific operations, team management, or service delivery to the Canadian Armed Forces.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
