Administrative Assistants provide essential support to managers, teams, and departments across the Department of National Defence. They manage daily office operations, coordinate schedules, prepare documents, and handle correspondence that keeps military and civilian operations running smoothly. As an Administrative Assistant, you'll be the backbone of your workplace, ensuring that important information flows efficiently and that teams can focus on their core missions.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include managing email and phone communications, organizing meetings and events, maintaining filing systems, preparing reports and presentations, and coordinating with other departments. You'll work with various software programs, databases, and Government of Canada systems to track information, manage budgets, and process administrative requests. You may also provide support during operational activities, helping to coordinate logistics and communications as needed.
Administrative Assistants work in diverse environments across DND—from headquarters offices and military bases to field operations and support centres. You'll collaborate with military personnel, other civilian employees, and external partners. The work is varied and fast-paced, requiring strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail.
Key Responsibilities
Perform administrative support duties in support of departmental operations, Prepare correspondence, reports, and administrative documents, Coordinate schedules, meetings, and logistics, Maintain records and filing systems
Required Skills
Organizational skills, Written and oral communication, MS Office proficiency, Time management, Attention to detail, 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 Administrative Assistant with DND, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent (Grade 12 or completion of a recognized adult education program). Many candidates have completed a post-secondary certificate or diploma in business administration, office management, or a related field, which can be an asset. Some positions may require specific training in Government of Canada computer systems, security protocols, or specialized software.
Once hired, you'll receive on-the-job training tailored to your specific workplace and the systems used by your department. DND supports ongoing professional development through access to internal training programs, courses in software applications, communication skills, and leadership development. You may pursue certifications in project management, records management, or other administrative specializations. Many Administrative Assistants develop their expertise through experience and take advantage of Government of Canada learning opportunities to advance their careers.
Entry Plans
There are several pathways to become an Administrative Assistant in the DND civilian workforce. The primary route is through federal Public Service job competitions, which are advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank and the DND Civilian Careers website. These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and are based on merit—applicants submit an application and may be invited to complete assessments or interviews.
You may also enter through the Public Service Priority List if you are a current or former federal public servant. Some provinces and regions participate in recruitment pools that allow qualified candidates to be matched with positions more quickly. DND also recruits through post-secondary recruitment initiatives and co-op programs that can lead to permanent employment. Lateral moves from other federal departments are also possible if you already have administrative experience in the public service. Veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces may have additional entry opportunities through programs designed to support their transition to civilian employment.
Part-Time Options
Administrative Assistant positions at DND are typically offered on a full-time permanent or term basis. However, part-time and flexible work arrangements are increasingly available depending on operational needs and departmental policy. Many DND locations offer flexible hours, compressed work weeks, or staggered schedules that allow you to balance work with personal responsibilities.
Remote and hybrid work options have expanded across the federal public service, and some Administrative Assistant roles—particularly those focused on scheduling, correspondence, and document preparation—can be performed partially or fully from home. The availability of remote work depends on your specific position, the sensitivity of the information you handle, and your manager's approval. Security clearance requirements and access to classified information may affect flexibility options. We encourage you to inquire about work arrangements when you apply, as these are often negotiable within operational requirements.
