As a Supervisor in Agriculture with the Department of National Defence, you will lead and manage agricultural operations and teams responsible for maintaining and optimizing farm facilities, crop production, and livestock management at DND locations across Canada. You will oversee daily agricultural activities, supervise staff, manage budgets and resources, and ensure compliance with federal agricultural standards and environmental regulations. This role is essential to supporting DND's operational readiness by maintaining self-sufficient food production capabilities and managing sustainable land use at military installations.
Your responsibilities include planning and directing agricultural work schedules, training and evaluating staff performance, managing equipment and facilities maintenance, coordinating with other departments on land management initiatives, and implementing best practices in modern agricultural methods. You will work directly with agricultural teams, liaising with base commanders and environmental management offices to balance productivity with conservation objectives.
You will work in a dynamic environment that combines outdoor agricultural work with administrative duties. The role offers opportunities to apply leadership skills in a unique federal setting while contributing to DND's operational sustainability and environmental stewardship goals.
Key Responsibilities
Coordinate and oversee daily agriculture operations, Assign work, monitor progress, and provide guidance to team members, Review work products for quality and compliance with standards, Contribute to operational planning and process improvement
Required Skills
Scientific methodology, Field research, Environmental assessment, Data interpretation, Regulatory compliance, Team supervision, Work coordination, Quality control, Staff development
Typical Education
Post-secondary diploma or degree; experience in the relevant technical or functional area
Training
Candidates typically hold a diploma or degree in agriculture, farm management, agronomy, or a related field from a recognized institution. Relevant work experience in agricultural supervision, farm operations, or agricultural service contracting is valued and may substitute for formal education depending on the competition requirements.
Professional certifications that strengthen your candidacy include credentials in farm safety, pesticide application, equipment operation, and sustainable agriculture practices. The Government of Canada supports ongoing professional development, and successful candidates will have access to training in federal management practices, environmental compliance, occupational health and safety, and leadership development through the Public Service Learning Portal and departmental programs.
Continuing education in precision agriculture, conservation practices, and emerging agricultural technologies is encouraged to maintain expertise in this evolving field.
Entry Plans
Entry to this position occurs through federal Public Service staffing competitions, typically advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca). Competitions are open to Canadian citizens and may be open competitions (available to all) or internal competitions (available to current Public Service employees).
If you are already a Public Service employee, you may apply as an internal candidate or transfer laterally from related agricultural or environmental roles. For those new to the Public Service, monitoring jobs.gc.ca regularly for Supervisor - Agriculture postings is essential. Some positions may be filled through departmental recruitment pools or staffing plans.
Student and recent graduate programs, such as the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or the Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC), may provide pathways to establish initial federal employment and demonstrate your capabilities for permanent placement.
Networking with DND Human Resources offices and expressing interest in agricultural operations at specific military bases can provide visibility during recruitment planning.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements for this supervisory role depend on operational requirements and base-specific policies. While agricultural operations typically require consistent on-site presence due to the nature of farm work and livestock care, some supervisory administrative duties may be performed remotely or on flexible schedules.
Telework options are generally limited due to the hands-on supervisory requirements of managing agricultural teams and facilities in person. However, DND is committed to work-life balance, and individual accommodations may be negotiated with your manager based on business needs and personal circumstances.
Flexible scheduling may be available for administrative components of the role, though peak agricultural seasons and emergency operational needs will require standard full-time presence. Candidates should discuss specific flexibility options during the recruitment process with the hiring manager.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
