As a Manager - Costing, you will lead a team responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining costing methodologies and financial analysis systems across the Department of National Defence. You will manage the production of accurate cost estimates, variance analyses, and financial reports that support decision-making at all levels of the organization. This role bridges financial management and operational planning, ensuring that DND leadership has reliable cost information for strategic initiatives, program management, and resource allocation.
Your responsibilities will include overseeing costing projects, mentoring team members, ensuring compliance with Treasury Board policies and DND financial directives, and collaborating with finance, operations, and program teams. You will analyse complex financial data, develop cost models, and present findings to senior management. In this position, you will contribute directly to the Department's ability to manage defence spending effectively and demonstrate value for money to Canadian taxpayers.
You will work in a dynamic environment within DND's financial management structure, potentially across multiple locations or in a hybrid capacity. This role requires strong analytical skills, financial acumen, and the ability to communicate technical costing information to diverse audiences. You will be part of a professional finance community committed to excellence and continuous improvement in financial stewardship.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of costing services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the costing team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Financial analysis, Accounting principles (PSAS/IFRS), SAP/financial systems, Budgeting, Attention to detail, People management, Operational oversight, Quality assurance, Resource coordination
Typical Education
Post-secondary education in the relevant field; supervisory and operational management experience
Training
To succeed as a Manager - Costing, you should have a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related discipline. Many successful candidates hold professional accounting designations such as CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant), CMA (Certified Management Accountant), or CA (Chartered Accountant). Experience with government accounting standards, activity-based costing, and financial management systems is highly valued.
The Government of Canada supports continuous professional development for finance professionals. You may pursue or maintain professional accounting certifications through employer-sponsored support. DND provides access to training in government financial policies, Treasury Board directives, and specialized costing software platforms. Leadership development programs are available to support your growth as a manager. Many employees take advantage of courses in advanced financial analysis, project management, and strategic planning to enhance their expertise and career progression.
Entry Plans
Entry into a Manager - Costing position typically occurs through several pathways within the federal Public Service. The most common route is through open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website, where candidates with relevant financial management experience and demonstrated leadership capability can apply. These competitions may be open to Canadian citizens or current public servants depending on departmental needs.
Current DND employees in financial or costing roles may advance to this manager level through internal selection processes or promotion competitions. The Public Service also uses staffing pools of pre-screened candidates for management positions, which can accelerate placement when positions become available. Some candidates enter at this level through lateral moves from other government departments or agencies with equivalent financial management experience.
Students and early-career professionals may enter the costing field through DND's student employment programs or entry-level positions (such as Financial Analyst or Costing Specialist roles), building experience and credentials before applying for management positions. Candidates with strong accounting backgrounds may also be recruited directly for management roles if they meet the Department's requirements and successfully complete the security clearance process.
Part-Time Options
Manager - Costing positions are typically full-time permanent roles; however, the federal Public Service offers flexibility options for qualified candidates. Depending on operational needs and departmental approval, flexible work arrangements such as compressed work weeks, telework, or hybrid schedules may be available. Remote work options have expanded across DND's financial management teams, particularly for analytical and reporting tasks that don't require daily on-site presence.
Part-time or job-sharing arrangements for management positions are less common due to the supervisory and decision-making responsibilities involved, but requests may be considered on a case-by-case basis. The Department recognizes the importance of work-life balance and supports employees in accessing leave programs, flexible scheduling within operational constraints, and employee wellness initiatives. Specific availability of flexible arrangements depends on your team's operational requirements and should be discussed with your manager or HR advisor during the recruitment or onboarding process.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
