As a Manager - Cleaning Services with the Department of National Defence, you will oversee the planning, coordination, and delivery of cleaning and custodial services across DND facilities. You will lead a team of cleaning staff, manage budgets and resources, and ensure that all facilities meet established cleanliness, health, and safety standards. Your work directly supports the operational readiness of DND by maintaining safe, hygienic work environments for military personnel and civilians.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include scheduling staff, monitoring service quality, implementing cleaning protocols, coordinating with other departments, and addressing facility maintenance concerns. You will also be responsible for staff supervision, performance management, training, and ensuring compliance with federal workplace standards, environmental regulations, and DND policies. You may work in various settings, including military bases, offices, laboratories, or specialized facilities that require specific cleaning standards.
This role requires strong organizational skills, leadership ability, and attention to detail. You will work with diverse teams in a structured environment where safety and operational excellence are priorities. Your contributions ensure that DND facilities remain clean, secure, and ready to support Canada's defence operations.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of cleaning services services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the cleaning services team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Client service, Business acumen, Negotiation, Process management, Communication, 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 high school diploma or equivalent. Many successful candidates have completed post-secondary training in facilities management, business administration, or a related field. Some positions may require previous supervisory or management experience in cleaning services or a related custodial field.
Professional development opportunities include DND and Public Service training programs in management, leadership, and occupational health and safety. You may also pursue certifications in facilities management, environmental compliance, or supervisory practices through professional associations. The Government of Canada supports ongoing learning through access to online courses, workshops, and mentorship programs that help you develop your management skills and stay current with industry best practices.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career path through several routes within the federal Public Service. The most common entry method is through a Public Service Commission (PSC) staffing competition for the Manager - Cleaning Services position. These competitions are advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website and are open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and other eligible candidates.
You may also transition into this role laterally if you already work in the federal Public Service in a related cleaning services or supervisory position. Some candidates begin their DND career in front-line custodial roles and advance to management through internal development and promotion competitions. Student programs and internship opportunities may also provide pathways to explore this career field. We recommend regularly checking the Government of Canada Jobs website and DND recruitment pages for current opportunities that match your qualifications and interests.
Part-Time Options
Manager - Cleaning Services positions are typically full-time, permanent roles due to the supervisory and operational responsibilities involved. However, the federal Public Service does offer flexible work arrangements in many cases. Depending on operational requirements and facility needs, part-time or job-share options may be available, though most of these positions require consistent, full-time presence to effectively manage staff and coordinate daily cleaning operations.
Remote work is generally limited for this role, as managers must be on-site to oversee teams, inspect facilities, and respond to operational issues. However, some administrative and planning tasks may be performed flexibly. DND is committed to supporting work-life balance, and you are encouraged to discuss specific flexibility needs during the hiring process or once employed. Benefits such as telework for certain duties, flexible hours within operational constraints, and leave options are available to eligible employees under federal Public Service policies.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
