As a Manager - Chemistry in the Department of National Defence, you will lead and oversee chemistry-related research, testing, and analysis activities that support defence and security operations. You will manage a team of scientists and technicians, set strategic direction for chemistry projects, and ensure the delivery of high-quality scientific results that meet operational requirements. This role combines scientific expertise with people management and strategic planning, making it ideal for experienced chemists who want to advance their careers in a leadership capacity.
Your responsibilities will include directing laboratory operations, managing budgets and resources, supervising staff development and performance, and collaborating with other departments and defence partners. You will oversee quality assurance processes, ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and communicate complex scientific findings to senior leadership and non-technical stakeholders. You may also contribute to policy development related to chemistry standards and practices across the defence organization.
You will work in a dynamic, secure environment where your scientific judgement directly impacts national defence priorities. The role offers opportunities to influence how chemistry supports Canada's military capabilities, defence research initiatives, and operational effectiveness across multiple defence establishments.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of chemistry services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the chemistry 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 must have a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or a related science discipline from a recognized Canadian or equivalent international institution. Many successful candidates hold a Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a specialized chemistry field, which provides competitive advantage and deeper expertise.
Professional certification or membership in a recognized chemistry association (such as Professional Engineers Ontario or Chemical Institute of Canada) is valued and demonstrates commitment to professional standards. You should have at least 5-7 years of progressive chemistry experience, with a minimum of 2-3 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
Ongoing professional development is strongly supported within DND. You will have access to federal leadership training programs, project management certification courses, and opportunities to attend scientific conferences and workshops. Many managers pursue additional qualifications in management, security clearance training, and specialized defence-related chemistry certifications. The department encourages continuous learning through tuition reimbursement programs and professional development leave.
Entry Plans
Entry into a Manager - Chemistry position typically occurs through competitive staffing processes advertised on the Public Service Commission website and DND's careers portal. Most candidates transition into this role after working as a Senior Chemist or Chemistry Specialist within the federal government, though external candidates with equivalent private sector experience may also compete.
If you are new to the federal Public Service, you can enter at the Chemist or Senior Chemist level through advertised competitions, then advance to management after gaining federal experience and demonstrating leadership capability. Some positions may be filled through departmental promotion processes or internal talent pools for high-potential employees.
The federal government also offers several pathways for recent graduates, including the Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC) and the Students in Federal Workplaces Program, which can lead to permanent positions at the Chemist level. Contract and term positions are sometimes available as entry points. Lateral moves from other government departments with transferable chemistry expertise are also considered. All positions require successful security clearance processes, which can take several months.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for Manager - Chemistry positions, though availability may vary depending on operational requirements and team structure. Some managers work compressed work weeks or flexible start and end times to accommodate work-life balance while maintaining leadership responsibilities.
Remote and hybrid work options have expanded across DND and are increasingly available for this role, particularly for administrative and planning aspects of the position. However, managers typically need to spend time on-site at their assigned laboratory or defence establishment to oversee operations, conduct safety inspections, and meet face-to-face with their teams and partners.
Specific arrangements are negotiated with your manager and depend on the position's location, team needs, and the nature of your responsibilities. Some managers may work full-time on-site while others arrange 2-3 days per week in the office with additional remote work days. The department is committed to supporting employee wellness and may offer leave programs, telework agreements, and flexible scheduling where operationally feasible.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
