As a Manager - Geomatics, you will lead teams that develop and maintain geographic information systems and spatial data critical to defence and security operations. You will oversee the planning, coordination, and delivery of geomatics projects that support decision-making across Department of National Defence activities. This role combines technical expertise with people management, requiring you to guide your team through complex spatial data initiatives while ensuring alignment with organizational objectives.
Your responsibilities include managing team performance, budgets, and project timelines; providing technical direction on geomatics standards and best practices; and collaborating with stakeholders across the Department and other government agencies. You will work with advanced mapping technologies, geographic databases, and geospatial analysis tools to solve operational challenges. Your work directly impacts the accuracy and reliability of information used by military personnel and defence planners.
You will work in a professional environment that values innovation and precision. The role offers opportunities to work on nationally significant projects, lead talented technical professionals, and contribute to Canada's defence capabilities. You may split your time between office-based management activities and site visits to operational locations.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of geomatics services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the geomatics team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Scientific methodology, Field research, Environmental assessment, Data interpretation, Regulatory compliance, 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 role, you typically need a bachelor's degree in geomatics, geography, surveying, geology, or a related scientific discipline. Many candidates hold additional qualifications such as a Professional Geoscientist (PGeo) designation or Professional Surveyor credentials through provincial regulatory bodies.
As a manager, you will be expected to complete Government of Canada core management training within your first year, including courses on leadership, financial management, and human resources. The Department supports ongoing professional development through workshops on emerging geomatics technologies, geographic information systems (GIS) software certifications, and advanced spatial analysis methods. You may also pursue Project Management Professional (PMP) or similar credentials to strengthen your management capabilities.
Continuing education in areas like remote sensing, geospatial data standards, and database management is encouraged. The Department provides access to specialized training resources and may support attendance at professional conferences and technical seminars relevant to geomatics innovation.
Entry Plans
Entry to this role typically occurs through one of several pathways within the federal Public Service. Most candidates progress from a specialist or senior specialist position in geomatics or a related field, bringing both technical expertise and demonstrated leadership capability. You may enter through a public competition for manager-level positions, either within the Department of National Defence or across the broader Public Service.
If you are already a federal public servant in a technical geomatics role, you can apply for internal competitions or be nominated through your department's succession planning process. External candidates with significant geomatics experience and management background can enter through open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada job board (jobs.gc.ca). Some candidates transition into this role from other government departments or agencies with geomatics responsibilities, such as Natural Resources Canada or Statistics Canada.
The Department also offers the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) and post-secondary recruitment initiatives that can lead to permanent positions. These programs allow you to develop geomatics expertise while working for DND, creating a pathway to management roles as you gain experience.
Part-Time Options
The Manager - Geomatics role is typically offered as a full-time permanent position. However, the Department of National Defence recognizes the importance of work-life balance and supports flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible.
Many aspects of this role can be performed remotely, particularly management activities such as team meetings, reporting, strategic planning, and administrative tasks. However, on-site presence is required for certain responsibilities including in-person team leadership, stakeholder meetings, and access to specialized geomatics equipment and databases. Most managers in this role work a hybrid arrangement, with a combination of remote and office-based days.
Part-time positions at the manager level are less common but may be available in specific circumstances. If you require flexible arrangements, you should discuss options with your manager and Human Resources during the recruitment or onboarding process. The Department is committed to accommodating diverse work situations within operational requirements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
