As a Supervisor - Infrastructure Operations, you will lead a team responsible for maintaining and operating the information technology infrastructure that supports Department of National Defence operations and services. You will oversee the day-to-day management of network systems, servers, data centres, and related IT infrastructure, ensuring optimal performance, security, and availability. This role combines technical expertise with people management, requiring you to balance operational excellence with team development and strategic planning.
Your responsibilities will include supervising technical staff, coordinating infrastructure maintenance and upgrades, monitoring system performance and security, troubleshooting complex technical issues, and ensuring compliance with Government of Canada IT policies and standards. You will work with other IT teams, stakeholders across DND, and external service providers to deliver reliable infrastructure services. You may also participate in capacity planning, technology assessments, and the implementation of new systems or improvements to existing infrastructure.
You will work in a fast-paced, technology-driven environment where reliability and security are critical. DND's infrastructure supports mission-critical operations, national defence, and essential government services. This role offers the opportunity to make a direct impact on organizational effectiveness while managing and developing a skilled technical team.
Key Responsibilities
Coordinate and oversee daily infrastructure operations 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
Systems administration, Programming/scripting, Network and security, Cloud technologies, ITIL/ITSM practices, 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 position, you typically need a secondary school diploma or equivalent, combined with relevant work experience in IT infrastructure, network operations, or a related technical field. Many candidates have post-secondary education in computer science, information technology, telecommunications, or a related discipline.
Key certifications and technical qualifications valued for this role include: CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) or similar vendor certifications, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), and infrastructure management certifications. Experience with network monitoring tools, server management, virtualization platforms, and IT service management frameworks such as ITIL is advantageous.
Professional development opportunities within the federal public service include leadership training, project management courses, advanced technical certifications, and security clearance-related training. DND supports ongoing learning through tuition assistance programs, internal training initiatives, and access to professional development resources. Many supervisors pursue additional qualifications in IT management, enterprise architecture, or cybersecurity to advance their careers.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways in the federal Public Service:
**Competition and Staffing**: Most positions are filled through open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's official job board (jobs.gc.ca). To be eligible, you must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and obtain the required security clearance. Positions may also be filled from internal staffing pools when available.
**Lateral Moves**: If you are already employed in the federal public service in an IT technical role, you may be able to move laterally into a supervisor position through internal competitions or appointment processes. This pathway recognizes your existing technical expertise and government experience.
**Career Progression**: Many supervisors advance from technical positions such as Computer Network Technician or IT Support Technician. Building experience in infrastructure operations, demonstrating leadership potential, and obtaining relevant certifications can prepare you for supervisory roles.
**Student and Early Career Programs**: DND occasionally offers co-op placements, internships, and early career development programs for recent graduates in IT fields. These programs can lead to permanent positions.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements for Supervisor - Infrastructure Operations positions depend on operational requirements and DND's business needs. While supervisory roles typically involve full-time commitment due to team management and operational oversight responsibilities, some flexibility may be available in specific circumstances.
Remote and hybrid work options have become more common in IT roles across the federal public service. Depending on the infrastructure location and the nature of your duties, you may have opportunities to work remotely for portions of your week, particularly for planning, coordination, and administrative tasks. However, some supervisory responsibilities—such as on-site troubleshooting, team meetings, and facility inspections—may require your presence at the workplace.
DND prioritizes work-life balance and supports employees in accessing flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible. When considering a position, discuss specific flexibility options with the hiring manager, as arrangements vary based on the team's location, the criticality of infrastructure operations, and individual circumstances. Shift work or on-call responsibilities may apply depending on the infrastructure operations centre's operating schedule.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
