As a Manager of Geological Engineering within the Department of National Defence, you will lead teams of geological engineers and technicians who provide critical expertise in ground conditions, geotechnical analysis, and subsurface investigations. Your role combines technical leadership with people management, ensuring that geological engineering services support DND's infrastructure, defence operations, and strategic objectives. You will be responsible for planning, organizing, and directing geological engineering projects while mentoring your team and ensuring compliance with professional standards and safety protocols.
In this position, you will oversee the delivery of geological engineering services across multiple projects or facilities, which may include site assessments, foundation design support, environmental investigations, and risk evaluations. Your responsibilities will include budget management, resource allocation, performance evaluation of staff, and liaison with other engineering disciplines, project managers, and external stakeholders. You will ensure that all work meets National Defence standards and contributes to the operational effectiveness and sustainability of DND facilities.
You will work in a collaborative environment with other professionals including civil engineers, environmental specialists, and military personnel. Depending on your assignment, you may work in offices, laboratories, or field settings across Canada or internationally. This role offers the opportunity to apply specialized geological expertise to meaningful defence and security missions while developing strong leadership capabilities.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of geological engineering services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the geological 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
To qualify for this position, you must hold a Bachelor's degree in Geology, Geological Engineering, or a closely related discipline from a recognized institution. Many candidates also pursue a Master's degree in Geological Engineering, Engineering Geology, or Geotechnical Engineering to advance their technical expertise.
Professional certification as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) in the engineering discipline is typically required or expected at the Manager level. This requires completing the Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) process or equivalent provincial engineering association requirements, which includes the Fundamentals of Professional Practice (FPP) examination.
Ongoing professional development is encouraged and may include specialized training in geotechnical analysis software, project management, leadership development, and emerging technologies in geological assessment. DND supports participation in professional associations such as Engineers and Geoscientists BC, Professional Engineers Ontario, and the Canadian Geotechnical Society to maintain current knowledge and expand professional networks.
Entry Plans
Entry to this manager-level position typically occurs through one of several pathways within the federal Public Service:
Competitive Selection: The primary method is through open competition or limited competitions advertised by DND. These competitions assess your geological engineering expertise, management experience, and leadership capabilities. You may apply directly if you meet the published qualifications.
Internal Advancement: Many managers advance from senior geological engineering positions (such as Senior Geological Engineer or Principal Geological Engineer) after demonstrating strong technical performance and leadership potential. Internal candidates may be considered through priority consideration in competitions.
Lateral Moves: If you hold a managerial or senior technical position in another federal department or agency, you may be considered for lateral transfer to DND if your background aligns with the geological engineering function.
Student and Early Career Programs: DND offers programs such as the Post-Secondary Recruitment Program and the Professional Development Program that can help early-career geological engineers enter the public service and progress toward management roles.
All positions require security clearance and citizenship or permanent resident status. Candidates should monitor the Government of Canada Job Bank and DND's careers website for current opportunities.
Part-Time Options
Full-time permanent positions are the standard offering for Manager-level roles in Geological Engineering at DND. However, depending on operational needs and individual circumstances, some flexibility may be available.
Remote and Flexible Work: Given the nature of geological engineering, which often requires field work and site visits, fully remote arrangements are limited. However, administrative and planning aspects of the role may be performed remotely, and many DND offices support hybrid work arrangements for portions of the week. Specific remote work eligibility depends on your assignment and supervisor approval.
Part-Time Options: Part-time work at the manager level is uncommon in the federal public service due to the continuous leadership and decision-making responsibilities. However, you should discuss any flexibility needs directly with DND Human Resources or your hiring manager, as accommodations may be possible under specific circumstances.
Leave and Work-Life Balance: The federal public service offers comprehensive leave provisions, including vacation leave, sick leave, family-related leave, and unpaid leave options. DND is committed to supporting work-life balance and employee wellness through flexible scheduling where operationally feasible.
