As a Manager - Chemical Engineering, you will lead and direct chemical engineering projects and teams within the Department of National Defence. You will be responsible for managing engineering resources, supervising professional engineering staff, and ensuring that chemical engineering solutions meet operational requirements and safety standards. This role involves overseeing the design, development, and implementation of chemical processes and systems critical to defence operations.
Your responsibilities will include strategic planning of engineering initiatives, budget management, performance evaluation of team members, and liaison with other departments and stakeholders. You will ensure compliance with federal engineering standards, environmental regulations, and Defence policies. Your work will directly support the operational effectiveness and safety of Canadian Armed Forces personnel and equipment.
You will work in a dynamic federal environment where your technical expertise and leadership skills are essential. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to national defence while managing complex engineering challenges and developing the next generation of engineering professionals within the Department.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of chemical engineering services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the chemical engineering team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Technical analysis, Design and drafting tools (CAD), Project management, Regulatory knowledge, Problem-solving, 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 must hold a degree in chemical engineering or a closely related discipline from a recognized institution. Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) designation from Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) or equivalent provincial/territorial engineering association is required or expected.
Managerial competencies are essential, including experience in team leadership, project management, and budget administration. Many successful candidates complete formal management training through the Canadian Forces College, Treasury Board learning programs, or equivalent professional development. Advanced certifications in specialized areas such as hazardous materials management, industrial safety, or defence-specific engineering standards are valued.
Continuing professional development is encouraged throughout your career, including participation in engineering conferences, technical seminars, and federal leadership development programs. The Department supports ongoing education to maintain your professional engineering credentials and expand your management capabilities.
Entry Plans
Entry into this Manager - Chemical Engineering position typically occurs through competitive staffing processes advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website. Most candidates progress to this level after gaining experience as Professional Engineers or Senior Engineers within DND or other federal departments.
You may enter this career through several pathways: direct competition for manager-level positions if you have the required managerial experience; promotion from within DND after serving as a Senior Chemical Engineer; or lateral transfer from other federal departments with recognized engineering management experience. Some candidates come from the Canadian Armed Forces as officers with engineering backgrounds transitioning to civilian roles.
The Department also considers candidates from the private sector and academia who possess both the technical chemical engineering expertise and demonstrated management experience. Student work-learn programs and co-op placements can provide initial entry into the DND engineering workforce, creating pathways to future manager positions. Interested candidates should monitor Government of Canada Jobs and the DND Civilian Workforce careers website for available competitions.
Part-Time Options
Manager - Chemical Engineering positions are typically full-time permanent or term positions given the leadership and supervisory responsibilities involved. However, the Government of Canada recognizes the importance of work-life balance, and flexible arrangements may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis depending on operational requirements and management approval.
Remote work options have expanded across the federal public service. Depending on your specific duties and team location, you may have opportunities for hybrid work arrangements combining office time for team leadership and meetings with remote work for planning, analysis, and report preparation. The extent of remote eligibility will depend on your branch's operational needs and the nature of your project work.
Part-time or job-share arrangements for manager-level positions are uncommon but may be possible in limited circumstances. We encourage candidates to discuss flexible work options during the recruitment process and after appointment with their hiring manager and Human Resources advisor. All arrangements must maintain operational effectiveness and proper supervision of your engineering team.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
