As a Manager - Geology/Research with the Department of National Defence, you'll provide scientific leadership and oversight to geological research programs and initiatives that support military operations, infrastructure development, and environmental stewardship. You'll manage a team of geoscientists, technicians, and support staff while directing research activities, budget management, and project delivery in areas such as geotechnical engineering, hydrogeology, mineralogy, and terrain analysis. Your work directly contributes to decision-making on defence infrastructure, operational planning, and natural resource management across Canadian Armed Forces installations and operations worldwide.
In this role, you'll combine your expertise in geology with management responsibilities including staff development, performance evaluation, resource allocation, and strategic planning. You'll collaborate with military personnel, other government departments, academic institutions, and private sector partners to advance geological science capabilities. Your work environment may include office-based research coordination, field investigations at various Canadian and international locations, and participation in interdisciplinary project teams that support national defence objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of geology services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the geology team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Research design, Statistical analysis, Laboratory techniques, Scientific writing, Data interpretation, People management, Operational oversight, Quality assurance, Resource coordination
Typical Education
Post-secondary education in the relevant field; supervisory and operational management experience
Training
You'll typically need a university degree in geology, geoscience, or a closely related earth science discipline. Many successful candidates hold a Master's degree in geology, geotechnical engineering, hydrogeology, or a specialized field relevant to defence applications. Professional designations such as Professional Geoscientist (P.Geo.) or Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) are valued and may be required depending on the specific position and provinces of operation.
Government of Canada management training is provided to support your transition into and advancement within a managerial role. Professional development opportunities include participation in advanced research projects, specialized geological surveys, leadership development programs, and continued education in emerging geoscience technologies. You're encouraged to maintain professional certifications and memberships in organizations such as the Association of Professional Geoscientists of Canada (APGC) and the Geological Association of Canada (GAC).
Entry Plans
Entry into Manager - Geology/Research positions typically occurs through competitive staffing processes advertised on the Government of Canada's official job board (jobs.gc.ca). Candidates may enter at this level with significant geological expertise and demonstrated management or leadership experience, or may be promoted from senior geology positions within DND after showing readiness for management responsibilities.
Lateral moves from other government departments or private sector organizations are possible when candidates possess the required geology credentials and management experience. Some positions may be filled through internal promotion streams within DND's Science and Technology ranks. Candidates should monitor the Public Service Commission website and departmental career pages for current competition announcements. Relevant graduate degree holders may also be considered for entry-level management positions as part of succession planning initiatives. Security clearance eligibility is typically required for positions supporting defence operations.
Part-Time Options
Full-time permanent and term positions are the standard for Manager - Geology/Research roles. However, flexible work arrangements including modified work schedules and telework options are increasingly available for administrative and research coordination duties, subject to operational requirements and supervisory approval. Some field-based research activities may require full-time presence during field seasons or specific project phases. Part-time options are limited but may be available in certain circumstances; interested candidates should inquire during the recruitment process. Remote work possibilities exist for certain research, analysis, and project management functions, though positions requiring regular field investigations or on-site team supervision typically maintain a hybrid or on-site requirement.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
