As a Manager in Social Services at the Department of National Defence, you will lead and oversee social services programs and teams that support the health and well-being of Canadian Armed Forces members and their families. This role involves managing program delivery, staff supervision, budget oversight, and policy implementation across various social support initiatives. You will be responsible for ensuring that services meet the diverse needs of our military community while maintaining alignment with departmental priorities and Treasury Board standards.
In this position, you will develop strategic plans for service improvement, monitor program performance, and ensure compliance with government regulations and best practices in social services delivery. Your day-to-day responsibilities will include supervising social workers and support staff, coordinating with other government departments and community partners, and addressing complex cases that require managerial intervention. You will also participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance service quality and accessibility.
The work environment is typically office-based at DND facilities across Canada, though you may visit service delivery locations to support your teams and clients. You will work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams including medical professionals, military leadership, and community organizations. This role demands strong organizational skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to manage competing priorities while maintaining a compassionate approach to client-centered services.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of social services services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the social services team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Clinical skills, Patient/client assessment, Empathy and communication, Record-keeping, Interdisciplinary collaboration, 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 position, you will typically need a bachelor's degree in social work, social sciences, psychology, or a related field from a recognized institution. Many successful candidates hold a Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) or Public Administration, which strengthens competitiveness and advancement prospects.
Professional credentials are valuable and may include registration as a Social Worker with a provincial or territorial college where applicable, or membership in professional associations such as Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW). Candidates must demonstrate knowledge of social services delivery, program management, and human resources practices.
Once hired, the Government of Canada provides extensive professional development opportunities including management training, federal policy courses, and specialized workshops in areas such as mental health support, operational stress injury awareness, and family services. DND also supports ongoing education and encourages participation in conferences and professional development relevant to your role. Training in Treasury Board processes, government technology systems, and departmental procedures is provided upon appointment.
Entry Plans
There are multiple pathways to enter this role within the federal Public Service:
**External Competitions**: DND regularly posts Manager - Social Services positions through public competitions. These are advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank (jobs.gc.ca) and the DND Civilian Workforce careers website. You can apply directly when positions are available in your region.
**Internal Mobility**: Current federal government employees may apply through internal competitions, which often have distinct application processes and timelines. As an internal candidate, your existing public service experience and status provide advantages in the competition process.
**Lateral Moves**: If you are already employed as a social worker or in a related social services role within DND or another government department, you may be considered for managerial positions through internal appointment processes or directed assignments.
**Student and Graduate Programs**: DND participates in federal recruitment programs for recent graduates, including the Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC) and the Canadian Graduate Recruitment Program (CGRP). These programs target individuals with relevant degrees in social work, social sciences, or related fields.
**Priority Hiring**: Depending on labour market conditions and departmental needs, priority may be given to veterans, Indigenous peoples, or other designated groups as part of the Government of Canada's commitment to diversity and inclusion.
All applicants must obtain security clearance appropriate to the role and meet language requirements for the position (typically English and/or French at a specific proficiency level).
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are increasingly available within the federal Public Service, including Manager - Social Services positions. Depending on operational requirements and management approval, managers may be able to negotiate flexible schedules such as compressed work weeks or part-time arrangements.
Remote work options have expanded following Government of Canada directives. Many administrative and planning tasks associated with this role can be performed remotely, though some in-person presence is typically required for team supervision, client meetings, and interdepartmental collaboration. Your specific remote work eligibility will depend on the location of your position and current departmental policies.
DND is committed to supporting work-life balance and offers various programs including telework agreements, flexible start and end times, and leave options such as parental leave, compassionate care leave, and personal wellness days. As a manager, you will also have access to Employee Assistance Programs and wellness resources.
Discussions about flexible arrangements typically occur during the hiring process and can be revisited periodically as operational needs and personal circumstances change. We recommend asking about specific flexibility options when applying for or interviewed for a position.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
