As a Manager - Electrical Engineering with the Department of National Defence, you will lead teams of electrical engineers in delivering critical infrastructure, systems, and solutions that support Canada's defence capabilities. You will oversee the planning, design, and implementation of complex electrical engineering projects while managing budgets, timelines, and personnel. Your leadership will ensure that engineering standards are met, innovation is fostered, and organizational objectives are achieved across a range of defence-related initiatives.
In this role, you will be responsible for strategic planning and technical direction within your team, mentoring junior engineers, and representing your department in collaborative projects with other government institutions, industry partners, and international allies. You will manage resources effectively, conduct performance evaluations, and contribute to the continuous improvement of engineering practices and processes. Your work environment will be professional and collaborative, often involving secure facilities, multi-disciplinary teams, and projects of national importance.
DND electrical engineering managers work in various settings including headquarters offices, operational facilities, research establishments, and field locations across Canada. You may be required to travel for project oversight, stakeholder engagement, and professional development. This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on Canada's defence readiness and technological advancement.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of electrical engineering services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the electrical 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
A bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related engineering discipline from an accredited Canadian university is required. Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) certification or eligibility through Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) or your provincial engineering association is highly valued and may be required depending on the specific position.
Managerial competencies are essential, including experience in team leadership, project management, budget administration, and human resources management. Government of Canada offers comprehensive management training programs for newly appointed managers, covering topics such as financial management, personnel administration, conflict resolution, and strategic planning.
Professional development opportunities include participation in industry conferences, advanced technical training in emerging technologies such as renewable energy systems and power electronics, and specialized certifications in project management (PMP) or advanced leadership programs. DND supports ongoing professional development to keep your technical expertise current and enhance your management capabilities throughout your career.
Entry Plans
Entry to the Manager - Electrical Engineering position in DND typically occurs through one of several pathways:
**Staffing Competitions**: The primary method is through open or internal merit-based competitions. These are advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website and require candidates to demonstrate the required education, experience, and management competencies through an application and interview process.
**Internal Advancement**: Current DND electrical engineers and technical specialists can advance to management positions through promotion competitions. This pathway rewards those who have developed both technical expertise and demonstrated leadership potential within the department.
**Lateral Moves**: Experienced managers from other federal departments or the private sector with strong electrical engineering backgrounds may compete for positions or transfer internally within the Public Service through lateral appointment processes.
**Student and Graduate Programs**: DND participates in federal student recruitment initiatives. Graduates with engineering degrees can enter at entry-level engineering positions and progress toward management roles over their careers.
All candidates must obtain security clearance appropriate to the position, which may range from Secret to Top Secret depending on the role's responsibilities and access to classified information.
Part-Time Options
Full-time employment is the standard for Manager - Electrical Engineering positions in DND due to the leadership and strategic responsibilities inherent in the role. However, the Government of Canada does support workplace flexibility where operationally feasible.
Remote and hybrid work arrangements may be available for certain aspects of the role, particularly administrative duties, planning meetings, and collaborative work with geographically dispersed teams. Specific flexibility options depend on the position's location, security requirements, and operational needs. Managers are encouraged to discuss accommodation options with their supervisors and Human Resources representatives.
Compressed work weeks or flexible schedules may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis, though the management nature of the position typically requires regular on-site presence for team leadership, facility access, and operational coordination. Work-life balance initiatives, employee assistance programs, and wellness resources are available to all DND employees to support your overall wellbeing.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
