As a Manager - Mechanical Services in the Department of National Defence, you will oversee the planning, coordination, and delivery of mechanical services and maintenance operations. You'll lead a team of technicians and trades workers responsible for maintaining, repairing, and servicing mechanical equipment and systems across DND facilities and operations. Your role bridges technical expertise with management responsibility, ensuring mechanical systems operate safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all applicable regulations and standards.
Your daily responsibilities will include supervising maintenance teams, developing and monitoring work schedules, managing budgets and resources, ensuring workplace safety and health standards, and maintaining detailed records of maintenance activities and equipment performance. You'll coordinate with other departments, contractors, and equipment vendors to resolve complex mechanical issues and plan preventative maintenance programs. You'll also be responsible for identifying training needs for your team and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives that enhance service delivery and operational efficiency.
You'll work in a dynamic environment that may include workshops, mechanical rooms, industrial facilities, and military installations. The work can be physically demanding and may occasionally require on-call availability or shift work depending on operational needs. You'll need strong problem-solving abilities, technical knowledge of mechanical systems, and the interpersonal skills necessary to lead and motivate a diverse team.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of mechanical services services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the mechanical services 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 high school diploma or equivalent, combined with substantial experience in mechanical trades or facility maintenance. Many candidates hold a trades certification or apprenticeship in areas such as plumbing, HVAC, equipment maintenance, or industrial mechanics. Some positions may require or prefer a journeyperson certification in a relevant trade.
Management-level experience is essential. You should have demonstrated experience supervising or leading technical teams, managing budgets, and coordinating maintenance operations. Professional development in areas such as project management, health and safety compliance, and leadership is highly valued. The Public Service offers opportunities to upgrade your skills through internal training programs, professional development courses, and pursuit of additional certifications in specialized mechanical systems or management practices. Many successful candidates in this role pursue credentials in facilities management or occupational health and safety to enhance their career prospects.
Entry Plans
Entry to this position typically occurs through federal public service job competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website. Competitions are usually open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents and may be open to external candidates or internal DND/Public Service employees depending on staffing needs.
If you're already employed in the Public Service, you may be able to apply as an internal candidate, which can provide advantages in the selection process. Some positions are filled through internal appointment or promotion of qualified employees already working in related mechanical or trades positions within DND. Lateral moves from other federal departments with similar mechanical services roles are also possible.
Student or apprenticeship pathways may be available for those early in their careers. The Canadian Armed Forces and DND occasionally offer co-op placements, apprenticeships, or training programs that can lead to permanent positions. We recommend regularly checking the Government of Canada Jobs website and signing up for job alerts matching your qualifications and interests. Networking with current DND employees and staying informed about departmental hiring initiatives can also provide valuable insights into upcoming opportunities.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements for Manager - Mechanical Services positions are typically limited due to the supervisory and operational nature of the role. However, the Public Service is committed to supporting work-life balance where operationally feasible.
Depending on the specific position and facility needs, some flexibility may be available in scheduling management tasks or administrative responsibilities. Job-sharing arrangements may be possible in certain circumstances, though the supervisory component usually requires a consistent management presence. Remote work opportunities are generally minimal for this role, as hands-on oversight of mechanical operations and team supervision typically require on-site presence. However, some administrative and planning tasks may be performed remotely when circumstances permit.
We encourage you to discuss flexible work options during the recruitment process. HR representatives and hiring managers can outline what flexibility might be available for specific positions. The Public Service values employee well-being and will work with you to explore options that meet both operational requirements and your personal needs.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
