Curriculum Developers in the Department of National Defence create, design, and improve educational programs and training materials that support the professional development of military and civilian personnel. You will work with subject matter experts, instructional designers, and stakeholders to develop evidence-based learning solutions that meet organizational training needs and align with DND's strategic objectives. Your work ensures that personnel have access to high-quality, relevant training across a variety of platforms and formats.
In this role, you will conduct needs assessments to identify learning gaps, design curricula that meet specific competency requirements, and evaluate the effectiveness of training programs. You may work on foundational military training, professional development courses, language instruction, or specialized technical training. Your responsibilities include developing learning objectives, selecting appropriate instructional methods, creating assessment tools, and ensuring training materials comply with accessibility standards and DND policies.
Curriculum Developers typically work in training establishments, learning centres, or headquarters environments across Canada and at some international locations. You will collaborate with diverse teams including educators, military personnel, civilian instructors, and senior leadership. The work environment is professional and results-oriented, with opportunities to influence how the Canadian Armed Forces and DND civilian workforce acquire critical skills and knowledge.
Key Responsibilities
Perform curriculum development duties within the education function, Prepare reports and documentation as required, Collaborate with team members and stakeholders, Maintain records and ensure compliance with relevant policies
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
Most positions require a bachelor's degree in education, instructional design, curriculum development, or a related field such as adult education, learning sciences, or educational technology. Some positions may accept candidates with a diploma in a relevant field combined with substantial professional experience in curriculum development or training delivery.
Valuable certifications include credentials in instructional design (such as those offered by the International Society for Performance Improvement), learning experience design, or adult education. Government of Canada training in areas such as accessible document design, employee learning systems, and official language instruction is highly relevant.
Professional development opportunities within DND include specialized training in learning management systems, virtual classroom technologies, competency-based education design, and evidence-based instructional methods. Many Curriculum Developers pursue ongoing education in educational technology, blended learning approaches, and assessment design to stay current with evolving training delivery methods.
Entry Plans
Most Curriculum Developer positions in the Public Service are filled through competitive job competitions announced on the Government of Canada's official job board (jobs.gc.ca). You may be eligible to apply as a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person with refugee status.
Entry options include:
• Direct competitions for Curriculum Developer positions at DND training establishments or headquarters
• Lateral moves from related positions in instructional design, training delivery, educational policy, or learning and development roles within the federal government
• Participation in the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC) if you are a recent graduate, which can lead to permanent Public Service employment
• Deployment or secondment from other federal departments with similar roles
Candidates should have a demonstrated portfolio of curriculum development work, teaching experience, or training program design. Competition processes typically include a written assessment, panel interview, and evaluation of education and experience against the job requirements.
Part-Time Options
Curriculum Developer positions at DND are typically full-time, permanent roles. However, flexible work arrangements such as staggered hours, compressed work weeks, and remote work options are often available depending on the specific position and organizational needs.
Many curriculum development tasks—such as document preparation, research, and instructional design work—can be performed remotely or on a flexible schedule. In-person attendance may be required for needs assessment meetings, collaboration with instructors and subject matter experts, and participation in training delivery or evaluation activities.
Candidates interested in part-time or casual work in related fields may find opportunities with training contractors or through the Casual Worker Program, though the primary Curriculum Developer positions are full-time. Specific flexibility options should be discussed during the recruitment process, as arrangements depend on operational requirements and the location of the position.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
