As a Supervisor - Biology at the Department of National Defence, you will lead a team of biology professionals while contributing directly to scientific research and analysis that supports military operations and defence capabilities. You will manage day-to-day activities, performance, and professional development of your team members while maintaining your own scientific expertise in biological sciences. Your work environment is typically a laboratory or research facility where you oversee experiments, data analysis, and the application of biological science to defence and security challenges.
Your responsibilities include supervising staff performance and conduct, planning and organizing work assignments, ensuring quality control of scientific outputs, and communicating findings to senior management and stakeholders. You will balance supervisory duties with hands-on scientific work, serving as a technical resource and mentor to your team. You may also participate in interdisciplinary projects, contribute to policy development, and represent your laboratory or unit at meetings and conferences.
This position requires strong leadership skills combined with current knowledge of biological sciences. You will work in a structured government environment with access to modern laboratory equipment and facilities, and you may collaborate with other government departments, academic institutions, and international partners on defence-related biological research.
Key Responsibilities
Coordinate and oversee daily biology 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
Research design, Statistical analysis, Laboratory techniques, Scientific writing, Data interpretation, Team supervision, Work coordination, Quality control, Staff development
Typical Education
Post-secondary diploma or degree; experience in the relevant technical or functional area
Training
To qualify for a Supervisor - Biology position, you must hold a bachelor's degree in biology, microbiology, biochemistry, or a closely related biological science from a recognized institution. Many successful candidates hold a master's degree or PhD in a specialized area of biology relevant to defence research.
Professional certifications such as Professional Biologist (P.Biol.) designation through professional biology associations are valued and may be required depending on the specific position. Laboratory safety certifications and biosafety training are essential and will be provided by DND.
As a supervisor, you will have access to professional development opportunities including management and leadership training through the Public Service Learning Program, scientific conferences and workshops, and specialized training in emerging areas of biological science. Ongoing professional development is supported to ensure you maintain current knowledge in your field while developing your supervisory capabilities.
Entry Plans
Entry to a Supervisor - Biology position typically occurs through one of several pathways in the federal Public Service. You may apply directly to advertised competition notices posted on the Government of Canada Job Bank. Many supervisory positions are filled through internal promotion of experienced Biology professionals already working at DND who have demonstrated leadership potential and technical expertise.
You may also enter as a laterally appointed supervisor if you bring equivalent supervisory experience in biological sciences from another government department or the private sector. The Public Service Commission oversees staffing processes to ensure fairness and merit-based selection.
The Canadian Armed Forces also offers student programs and early-career recruitment initiatives that can lead to permanent positions. If you are early in your career, consider applying for Biologist positions first, performing well, and applying for supervisor roles as they become available. Networking within the defence science community and demonstrating expertise in your field will strengthen your candidacy.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for Supervisor - Biology positions at DND, though availability may depend on operational needs and team structure. Many supervisory roles can accommodate compressed work weeks or flexible scheduling where core supervisory hours overlap with your team's presence.
Remote work options have expanded across the federal Public Service and may be available for certain duties such as report writing, data analysis, and administrative supervision. However, hands-on laboratory work typically requires on-site presence, and supervising a team usually benefits from regular in-person interaction. Specific work arrangements are negotiated with your manager and depend on the nature of your laboratory's work and security requirements.
DND supports work-life balance through various programs. Discuss flexible options during the hiring process or with your manager once in position. Job sharing for supervisory roles is less common but may be possible in specific circumstances.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
