As a Supervisor in Graphic Design with the Department of National Defence, you will lead a team of graphic designers while maintaining your own expertise in visual communications. You'll oversee the creation of compelling visual content that supports DND's communication objectives, from internal messaging to public-facing campaigns. Your role bridges creative leadership and operational management, ensuring your team delivers high-quality design work on time and within budget.
Your responsibilities include directing design projects, mentoring graphic designers, reviewing and approving design work, and collaborating with communications, marketing, and operational teams across DND. You'll manage workflows, allocate resources, set quality standards, and contribute to strategic communications initiatives. You'll work in a dynamic environment where visual storytelling is critical to conveying Defence messages to diverse audiences, including military personnel, government partners, and the Canadian public.
This position offers the opportunity to shape how Canada's defence communications are presented while developing leadership skills in a creative, professional setting. You'll work with modern design tools and technologies while supporting the professional growth of your team members.
Key Responsibilities
Coordinate and oversee daily graphic design 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
Writing and editing, Strategic thinking, Media relations, Digital content creation, Stakeholder engagement, 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 this role, you typically need a diploma or degree in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, Communications Design, or a related field from a recognized institution. Many successful candidates hold a Bachelor's degree in these disciplines. You should have demonstrated proficiency with industry-standard design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), along with knowledge of design principles, typography, colour theory, and digital media.
Supervisory qualifications include proven experience managing teams, demonstrated leadership abilities, and strong communication skills. Professional certifications in project management (such as PMP or CAPM) or design-specific credentials are assets. The Government of Canada provides comprehensive professional development opportunities, including management training programs, design-focused workshops, and access to learning platforms. You'll have opportunities to pursue certifications in specialized areas and attend conferences relevant to graphic design and communications. Ongoing training in emerging design technologies and inclusive design practices is encouraged throughout your career.
Entry Plans
Entry into this supervisor role typically occurs through competition-based recruitment processes. Many candidates progress to supervisory positions after working as Graphic Designers within DND, demonstrating strong performance and leadership potential. This internal pathway allows you to develop technical expertise while building institutional knowledge.
External candidates with relevant supervisory or design experience can enter through open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's job board (jobs.gc.ca). The Public Service Commission conducts these competitions following Treasury Board guidelines. Some entry may occur through lateral moves from other federal departments or agencies where you've held similar supervisory positions.
The Government of Canada also offers student internship programs and co-op opportunities that can lead to casual or term positions, providing pathways into permanent roles. Candidates should maintain an active profile in the Public Service Staffing database to be considered for future opportunities. Prior military service or Canadian Armed Forces experience is valued but not required.
Part-Time Options
The Supervisor - Graphic Design position is typically offered as a full-time, permanent position. However, the Government of Canada is increasingly flexible with work arrangements. Remote work options may be available depending on DND's operational requirements and the nature of specific projects. Many design and supervisory tasks can be performed effectively from home with appropriate technology and security measures.
Flexible work schedules, including compressed work weeks or staggered hours, may be negotiable within your department's policies. Part-time or job-shared supervisor roles are less common but may be available in specific circumstances. All work arrangements must align with DND's operational needs and security requirements. Upon hiring, you can discuss flexible work options with your manager and Human Resources to explore arrangements that suit both organizational needs and your personal circumstances. Telework eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
