As a Manager in Health Care Administration within the Department of National Defence, you provide strategic leadership and operational oversight of health care services and administrative functions. You direct and coordinate health care delivery, manage budgets and resources, oversee staff performance, and ensure compliance with health care regulations and DND policies. Your work directly supports the health and wellbeing of Canadian Armed Forces members, Veterans, and eligible civilian employees.
In this role, you manage teams of health care professionals and administrative staff, develop work plans and performance metrics, and liaise with senior leadership, other government departments, and external health care providers. You work in military medical facilities, clinics, hospitals, or administrative offices located across Canada and internationally. You balance operational demands with fiscal responsibility while maintaining high standards of health care delivery and patient safety.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of health care administration services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the health care administration team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Organizational skills, Written and oral communication, MS Office proficiency, Time management, Attention to detail, People management, Operational oversight, Quality assurance, Resource coordination
Typical Education
Post-secondary education in the relevant field; supervisory and operational management experience
Training
You typically hold a Bachelor's degree in Health Administration, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field. Many managers in health care administration have a background in nursing, medicine, or other health professions combined with formal management training. Professional certifications such as Certified Health Executive (CHE) through the Canadian College of Health Leaders, or equivalent credentials, are valued.
The Government of Canada provides ongoing professional development opportunities including management training programs, health care administration courses, financial management workshops, and leadership development initiatives. You may pursue advanced credentials such as a Master's degree in Health Administration, MBA, or specialized certifications to advance your career. DND also supports participation in federal and provincial health care forums and professional associations.
Entry Plans
Entry to this position typically occurs through competitive staffing processes advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website. You may enter as a Manager through:
• Direct competitions for the Manager level if you have relevant education and experience in health care administration or a related field
• Lateral moves from other Government of Canada departments or agencies with equivalent management experience
• Promotion from the Health Care Administration Technical Officer or Professional level positions within DND
• The Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or Post-Secondary Recruitment Initiative (PSRI) if you are a recent graduate, which may lead to permanent appointment
Most positions require Canadian citizenship, a valid security clearance (Secret or Top Secret depending on posting), and a satisfactory medical evaluation. Bilingualism (English and French) is often an asset for advancement to senior management roles.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements may be available depending on operational requirements and the specific position. Many health care administration roles in DND operate during standard business hours, which can facilitate flexible scheduling compared to clinical positions. Remote work options have expanded within the Government of Canada and may apply to certain administrative and planning functions, though positions requiring on-site facility management or direct team supervision typically require regular workplace presence.
To discuss specific flexibility options, you should inquire during the recruitment process or contact the DND Civilian HR office managing the competition. Accommodations for family responsibilities, education, or other needs are considered on a case-by-case basis in accordance with the Treasury Board Directive on Telework and DND policies.
