As a Manager of Real Property Asset Management with the Department of National Defence, you will oversee the strategic planning, maintenance, and optimization of real property assets across military installations and facilities. You will be responsible for managing teams of technicians and specialists who maintain the physical infrastructure that supports Canadian Armed Forces operations, from barracks and administrative buildings to specialized military facilities. Your work ensures that DND properties are safe, functional, and cost-effective while meeting operational requirements and regulatory standards.
In this role, you will develop and implement asset management strategies, oversee capital planning and lifecycle maintenance programs, and manage budgets for property operations and repairs. You will work with multiple stakeholders including facility staff, military commanders, contractors, and other government departments to coordinate maintenance schedules, emergency repairs, and facility upgrades. You will also ensure compliance with Treasury Board policies, environmental regulations, and occupational health and safety standards.
You will work in a dynamic environment where priorities can shift based on operational needs and emergency situations. Your position may be located at a major DND facility or regional office, and you may be required to conduct site inspections and coordinate work across multiple locations. This role offers the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the effectiveness and readiness of Canadian Armed Forces operations by maintaining the facilities and infrastructure upon which they depend.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of real property asset management services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the real property asset management team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Property management, Building systems knowledge, Contract administration, Project coordination, 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 succeed in this role, you will typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field such as facility management, real estate, civil engineering, business administration, or property management. Some positions may accept candidates with a diploma in facility management or a related technical field combined with significant relevant work experience.
Professional certifications that strengthen your candidacy include the Certified Property Manager (CPM) designation, Facility Management Professional (FMP) certification, or credentials from the International Facility Management Association (IFMA). Knowledge of real property management software, project management methodologies, and building information systems is advantageous.
Once hired, you will have access to Government of Canada professional development programs, DND-specific training in military facility standards and operations, and opportunities to pursue additional certifications. Ongoing training includes courses in asset management systems, budget management, leadership development, and compliance with federal real property regulations. DND encourages continuous learning through mentorship programs and access to professional associations in facility management.
Entry Plans
Positions for Managers in Real Property Asset Management are typically filled through advertised competitions on the Government of Canada's Job Bank website (jobs.gc.ca) and internal DND posting systems. You may enter this career through several pathways:
Public Service Competitions: Most manager-level positions are open to both external candidates and current federal public servants. These competitions assess your management experience, technical knowledge of real property operations, and leadership capabilities through written exams, interviews, and scenario-based assessments.
Lateral Moves: If you are already employed in the federal public service in a related field such as facilities management, engineering, or project management, you may be able to transition into a DND real property management role. Your existing public service status and relevant experience can accelerate the hiring process.
Students and Early-Career Professionals: DND offers internship and student employment programs that can lead to permanent positions. These programs provide practical experience in facility management and infrastructure operations, helping you build the experience required for manager-level roles.
Experience Recognition: The Government of Canada recognizes equivalent work experience outside the public service. If you have worked in private sector facility management, property operations, or related fields, this experience will be evaluated alongside formal qualifications during the selection process.
Part-Time Options
Manager-level positions in Real Property Asset Management are typically full-time roles due to the supervisory responsibilities, budget oversight, and need to respond to facility emergencies and operational priorities. However, the Government of Canada is committed to work-life balance and flexible arrangements where operationally feasible.
Flexible work arrangements may be available depending on your specific position and facility location. Some managers have the option to adjust their work schedules or work compressed work weeks if this aligns with facility operational needs. Remote work may be possible for certain administrative and planning duties, though your role will require regular on-site presence to conduct inspections, oversee maintenance operations, and respond to emergencies.
If you require part-time work or significant flexibility, you should discuss accommodation options with the hiring manager during the recruitment process. DND recognizes the importance of accommodating employees with caregiving responsibilities, disabilities, or other needs, and will work with you to find arrangements that support both your circumstances and operational requirements. Leave benefits, including parental leave and other federal entitlements, are available to all employees regardless of work schedule.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
