As an Actuarial Assistant in the Department of National Defence, you will support the development and analysis of actuarial models and insurance-related valuations. Working within the Actuarial Science job family, you will assist senior actuaries in evaluating financial risks, calculating pension liabilities, and analyzing insurance data to help DND make informed decisions about benefits, pensions, and risk management. Your work will directly support the financial sustainability and operational readiness of Canada's defence organization.
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include performing actuarial calculations, preparing data for analysis, conducting literature reviews on actuarial practices and assumptions, and assisting in the development of reports and recommendations. You will work with complex datasets and actuarial software, applying mathematical and statistical principles to real-world defence and military pension problems. You may also participate in meetings with stakeholders to gather requirements and present findings.
You will work in a professional office environment, typically at a DND location such as National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa or other Canadian Forces bases. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to critical financial planning that affects serving members, veterans, and their families.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct actuarial science research and analysis, Design and execute experiments, studies, or analyses, Publish findings and contribute to scientific knowledge, Provide expert advice to support policy and decision-making
Required Skills
Research design, Statistical analysis, Laboratory techniques, Scientific writing, Data interpretation, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify as an Actuarial Assistant, you typically need a bachelor's degree in actuarial science, mathematics, statistics, or a closely related discipline. Some candidates with strong mathematical backgrounds in physics or engineering may also be considered. During your career with DND, you will be encouraged to pursue the professional designations offered by the Canadian Institute of Actuaries (CIA), such as the Associateship (ASA) or Fellowship (FSA) credentials. DND supports professional development through study leave, examination fee reimbursement, and mentorship from senior actuaries. You may also receive training in government-specific software, pension legislation, and DND policy and procedures. Continuous learning in actuarial science, risk management, and data analysis tools is expected as the field evolves.
Entry Plans
Entry into the Actuarial Assistant position in the federal Public Service typically occurs through competitive public service recruitment processes managed by the Treasury Board or DND. You may enter through: open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website, which are open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and other eligible candidates; closed competitions limited to current Public Service employees; student recruitment programs such as the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or the Post-Secondary Recruitment Initiative (PSRI), which can lead to permanent positions; or lateral moves from other departments if you already work in the federal Public Service. DND may also maintain recruitment pools for actuarial positions to fill vacancies more quickly. We encourage you to monitor the Government of Canada Jobs website and DND's careers portal for current opportunities.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements may be available for Actuarial Assistant positions depending on operational needs and management approval. Remote work options have expanded across the federal government and may be negotiable, particularly for analytical and data-focused tasks that do not require daily on-site collaboration. However, some aspects of the role—such as stakeholder meetings, access to secure systems, and team coordination—may require periodic presence at a DND location. Arrangements are typically made on a case-by-case basis between you and your manager. We recommend discussing flexible work options during the recruitment process or once hired, as options vary by team and project requirements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
