As a Manager of Employee Assistance Program (EAP) within the Department of National Defence, you will lead and oversee the delivery of comprehensive mental health and wellness services to military personnel and civilian employees. You will be responsible for developing, implementing, and managing EAP initiatives that support employee wellbeing, reduce workplace stress, and promote a healthy organizational culture. This role involves strategic planning, program evaluation, and collaboration with internal stakeholders and external service providers to ensure accessible, confidential, and effective support services. You will manage a team of professionals including counsellors, coordinators, and support staff, ensuring they deliver quality services that meet the diverse needs of the DND workforce. Your work directly contributes to improving employee retention, reducing absenteeism, and enhancing overall organizational effectiveness. The EAP Manager operates in a dynamic, caring environment where you will advocate for mental health awareness and help create a supportive workplace culture across military and civilian populations.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of employee assistance program services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the employee assistance program team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
HR policy interpretation, Interpersonal skills, Staffing and classification, Conflict resolution, Labour relations knowledge, 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 Bachelor's degree in Human Resources Management, Psychology, Social Work, Counselling, or a related field. Many successful candidates hold a Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA), Human Resources Management, or Clinical/Counselling Psychology. Professional certifications such as Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP), Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP), or relevant credentials from provincial psychology or social work associations are advantageous. Ongoing professional development is expected and supported, including training in trauma-informed care, mental health first aid, workplace conflict resolution, and HR management practices. DND provides access to professional development opportunities, conference attendance, and specialized training related to military culture, Veterans' affairs, and the unique mental health challenges facing Defence personnel.
Entry Plans
Entry into this Manager-level position typically occurs through competitive staffing processes advertised on the Government of Canada's internal job board (GCJobs) and externally. Candidates may enter through several pathways: direct competition from outside the Public Service with relevant experience and qualifications; internal competition from within DND or other federal departments as a lateral move; advancement from a coordinator or specialist role within EAP; or through a priority hiring mechanism if you are a former Public Service employee. Some candidates transition from related HR management positions across the federal government. To be considered, you must meet the educational and experience requirements outlined in the job poster, demonstrate proven leadership experience, and show a commitment to employee wellbeing and mental health advocacy. Bilingualism (English and French) may be required depending on the posting and the location of the position.
Part-Time Options
This Manager-level position is primarily offered on a full-time basis due to the strategic planning, team leadership, and continuous program oversight responsibilities required. However, the Department of National Defence supports flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible. Remote work options may be available for certain aspects of the role, particularly administrative and planning functions, with the expectation that you will maintain regular on-site presence for team management, stakeholder meetings, and direct program oversight. Part-time arrangements are uncommon at the Manager level but may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis depending on business needs and collective agreement provisions. DND encourages work-life balance and may offer flexible scheduling, compressed work weeks, or telework options to support employee wellbeing, consistent with the values the EAP itself promotes. Discussion regarding specific flexible work arrangements should occur during the hiring process and with your direct supervisor.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
