As a Manager - Elections, you will lead and oversee the administration of federal election operations and processes. You will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and managing election-related activities, including the recruitment and training of election staff, logistics management, and ensuring compliance with the Canada Elections Act and related legislation. Your role is critical to supporting Elections Canada in delivering fair, accessible, and efficient elections across the country.
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include supervising election teams, managing budgets and resources, coordinating with stakeholders at federal, provincial, and municipal levels, and ensuring that election operations meet strict timelines and quality standards. You will work with diverse groups including election officers, poll workers, and the public to ensure that voting processes run smoothly. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
You will work in a professional office environment, with increased activity during election periods. Your work environment may include travel to different regions to oversee election preparations and operations. The role offers opportunities to contribute directly to democratic processes and to work with dedicated professionals committed to electoral integrity.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of elections services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the elections team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Organizational skills, Written and oral communication, MS Office proficiency, Time management, 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 qualify for this position, you typically need a post-secondary education in public administration, business management, or a related field. Some positions may accept equivalent work experience in lieu of formal education. Professional certifications in project management (such as PMP) or public sector administration are beneficial but not always required.
Once hired, you will receive comprehensive training on Elections Canada legislation, policies, and procedures specific to election administration. Training includes the Canada Elections Act, accessibility requirements, cybersecurity protocols, and emergency management procedures. You may pursue professional development in areas such as project management, human resources management, and leadership through Elections Canada's internal programs and through partnerships with other federal departments.
Continuing education is encouraged, with opportunities to attend workshops, seminars, and conferences related to electoral administration, public management, and professional development. Elections Canada supports employees in obtaining relevant certifications and upgrading their skills throughout their careers.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways within the federal Public Service. The most common route is through a competitive staffing process (competition) advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank or through internal Elections Canada recruitment. These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who meet the essential qualifications.
If you are already a federal public servant, you may apply for lateral moves or internal competitions, which may provide advantages such as priority consideration. Some positions may be filled through the Public Service Resourcing Program or through pools of pre-qualified candidates maintained by Elections Canada.
Student programs, including the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) and the Post-Secondary Recruitment Initiative (PSRI), offer pathways to gain experience in election administration. These programs can lead to permanent or indeterminate positions upon successful completion. Experience in related administrative, supervisory, or project management roles in other federal departments can strengthen your candidacy for this position.
Part-Time Options
Manager - Elections positions are typically offered on a full-time, indeterminate or term basis. However, Elections Canada recognizes the need for flexible work arrangements and may accommodate part-time work on a case-by-case basis, particularly outside of active election periods.
During non-election periods, some flexibility may be available for remote work or adjusted schedules, subject to operational requirements and manager approval. During election periods—which can be intense and time-sensitive—full-time availability is generally expected to ensure smooth operations and timely delivery of election services.
If you require flexible work arrangements, accommodation requests are considered during the recruitment process and ongoing employment. Elections Canada is committed to supporting work-life balance while maintaining the operational readiness necessary for conducting federal elections. Discuss specific flexibility needs with your manager or the Elections Canada Human Resources team during the hiring process.
