As a Marine Engineer Officer with the Department of National Defence, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and engineering support of naval vessels and water transport equipment. You will apply advanced knowledge of marine engineering systems, including propulsion, electrical power generation, heating and cooling systems, and auxiliary equipment to ensure vessels meet operational requirements. Your work will be critical to maintaining the Canadian Armed Forces' maritime capabilities and supporting Canada's naval operations worldwide.
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include overseeing the operation and maintenance of complex marine engineering systems, conducting inspections and troubleshooting equipment failures, managing spare parts and maintenance schedules, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations and environmental standards. You will work collaboratively with other engineering officers, naval personnel, and civilian contractors to coordinate maintenance activities and vessel readiness. You may also be involved in the design review of new systems, technical documentation, and training of personnel.
You will work in a dynamic maritime environment, primarily based at naval establishments such as dockyards, ships' maintenance facilities, or aboard vessels. The role requires strong technical knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure to meet operational schedules. You will be part of a professional team dedicated to maintaining Canada's naval fleet at the highest operational standards.
Key Responsibilities
Perform marine duties supporting federal transportation operations, Ensure compliance with transportation safety regulations, Monitor and report on operational performance, Coordinate logistics and scheduling
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify for this position, you must have a bachelor's degree in marine engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline from a recognized Canadian or international institution. Professional engineering registration (P.Eng.) or eligibility for registration is highly valued and may be required depending on the specific posting.
You will receive comprehensive on-the-job training specific to DND vessels and systems upon appointment. This includes formal training courses in naval engineering practices, damage control, safety procedures, and specific equipment operated by the Canadian Armed Forces. Depending on your assignment, you may be required to obtain a Marine Engineering Officer's Certificate of Competency from Transport Canada to meet international maritime standards.
Professional development opportunities are available throughout your career, including advanced technical certifications, leadership training, specialized engineering courses, and opportunities to pursue additional qualifications such as Master of Engineering degrees. DND supports continuous learning to keep you current with evolving maritime technology and best practices.
Entry Plans
Entry to this career in the federal Public Service typically occurs through one of several pathways:
- **Public Service competitions**: The primary method is through open or priority competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's job board (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who meet the education and experience requirements.
- **Engineering pools**: You may enter through national recruitment pools maintained by DND that identify qualified candidates for marine engineering positions. Once in a pool, you may be placed into various positions without competing again.
- **Graduate recruitment programs**: Recent engineering graduates may enter through DND's recruitment initiatives targeting university graduates seeking federal careers.
- **Lateral moves**: If you are already employed in the federal Public Service or Canadian Armed Forces in a related engineering role, you may transition to this position through internal competitions or appointment processes.
All candidates must obtain security clearance and pass medical and background checks as required by DND. The specific entry requirements and timeline will be detailed in individual job postings.
Part-Time Options
Marine Engineer Officer positions are typically full-time permanent or term appointments. However, the federal Public Service does offer flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible.
Flexible scheduling options, such as compressed work weeks or adjusted start times, may be available depending on your specific posting location and operational requirements. Remote work is generally limited due to the hands-on nature of marine engineering work, which requires physical presence at facilities and aboard vessels for inspections, maintenance oversight, and emergency response.
If you require part-time work, modified duties, or other accommodations, DND Human Resources can discuss options during the recruitment and appointment process. The department is committed to supporting work-life balance while ensuring operational readiness and safety standards are maintained.
