As a Manager - Ground Transport, you will lead and oversee ground transportation operations for the Department of National Defence. You are responsible for managing transportation fleets, coordinating logistics, ensuring vehicle maintenance standards, and supervising transportation personnel. Your work directly supports military readiness by ensuring reliable and efficient movement of personnel, equipment, and supplies across Canada and internationally.
In this role, you will manage budgets, develop operational plans, monitor performance metrics, and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations. You will work with other departments, military units, and external contractors to optimize transportation networks and resolve operational challenges. Your decisions impact mission success and the safety of personnel and equipment.
You will work in a dynamic environment where priorities can shift based on operational needs. This may include managing emergency responses, coordinating transportation during training exercises, or supporting domestic and international deployments. The role requires strong problem-solving skills, leadership capability, and the ability to work effectively in a structured military environment.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of road services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the road team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
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 transportation management, business administration, supply chain management, or a related field. Equivalent work experience in transportation operations or logistics management may be considered.
Desirable certifications include professional designations such as Certified Professional Logistician (CPL), Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), or equivalent credentials from recognized transportation and logistics associations. A valid driver's license is required; a commercial driver's license (Class A or B) is an asset.
Once hired, you will participate in mandatory orientation training specific to DND operations, including security clearance protocols and military transportation procedures. Professional development opportunities include management courses through the Canadian Armed Forces Learning System, specialized transportation management certifications, and leadership development programs. DND encourages ongoing education to maintain professional competency in logistics, fleet management, and operational planning.
Entry Plans
Entry into this Manager - Ground Transport position typically occurs through advertised Government of Canada job competitions open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. These competitions may be advertised on the DND civilian careers portal and the Public Service Commission (PSC) website.
You may enter this career through several pathways: direct external competition if you have relevant private sector transportation or logistics management experience; internal competition if you are already a DND civilian employee; or lateral movement from another government department. Some candidates progress into management roles after working in related civilian positions such as Transportation Coordinator or Logistics Officer.
Student and early-career programs may also lead to this role. Graduates of transportation management or logistics programs can apply through competitions targeted at recent graduates, and develop into management positions through career progression. DND occasionally operates recruitment pools for transportation professionals that feed into various management and specialist roles.
Part-Time Options
Manager - Ground Transport positions are typically full-time, given the operational and supervisory responsibilities required. However, flexible work arrangements may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis depending on operational needs and management approval.
Remote work options are limited due to the nature of ground transportation management, which requires on-site presence to oversee operations, conduct inspections, and respond to operational issues. However, administrative and planning duties may be performed remotely when operationally feasible.
Part-time or job-sharing arrangements are not standard for management-level positions in this career field, as continuity of leadership and decision-making authority are essential for safe and effective transportation operations. Employees should discuss specific scheduling needs with their hiring manager during the recruitment process.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
