As an Educational Programs and Services Co-Ordinator, you will develop, implement, and manage educational initiatives and learning programs that support organizational objectives and employee development. Working within the Department of National Defence, you'll collaborate with subject matter experts, instructional designers, and stakeholders to create curricula and educational services that meet the needs of military and civilian personnel. Your role bridges the gap between learning strategy and operational delivery, ensuring programs are accessible, effective, and aligned with defence priorities.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include coordinating program logistics, scheduling instructors and facilities, developing educational materials, and evaluating program outcomes. You'll communicate with diverse audiences ranging from senior leadership to front-line personnel, adapting content and delivery methods to suit different learning needs. You may work on projects ranging from professional development courses to specialized training initiatives, always with an eye toward continuous improvement and evidence-based practices.
You'll work in a structured, mission-focused environment where education directly supports operational readiness and organizational excellence. While based primarily in an office setting, you may occasionally deliver programs on-site or participate in training events at various DND locations. This role offers meaningful work that develops skilled, capable personnel across the defence organization.
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
To succeed in this role, you typically need a post-secondary education, such as a diploma or bachelor's degree in education, curriculum development, instructional design, human resources, or a related field. Some positions accept equivalent work experience demonstrating program coordination and educational content expertise.
Valuable certifications and credentials include those in instructional design (IDOL, IDCA), adult education, training and development, or project management (PMP, CAPM). Government of Canada language requirements vary by position; many roles require functional bilingualism (English and French).
Once hired, you'll access professional development through the Public Service Learning Portal, training in government systems and processes, and opportunities to develop expertise in areas such as adult learning principles, curriculum design, educational technology, and evaluation methodologies. DND also supports employees pursuing relevant credentials and participating in professional associations such as the Canadian Society for Training and Development (CSTD).
Entry Plans
There are several pathways to enter this career in the federal Public Service. Most positions are filled through public competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca), where you can search by job title or position number. These competitions typically require a written exam, educational assessment, and interview.
Some candidates enter through the Public Service Exchange Program or lateral moves from other government departments if they hold similar educational or program coordination experience. Students and recent graduates may access positions through recruitment programs such as the Co-op Student Program or the Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign, which provide pathways to indeterminate employment.
Additionally, bridging programs exist for individuals with military or defence sector experience, and some positions may be filled through statement of qualifications (SOQ) processes rather than competitive exams. We recommend registering on the Public Service Job Alert system and regularly checking jobs.gc.ca for postings that match your background. Connecting with DND HR contacts and attending recruitment events can also provide insight into upcoming opportunities and organizational needs.
Part-Time Options
Many Educational Programs and Services Co-Ordinator positions within DND offer flexible work arrangements. Part-time work is often available, particularly in support roles or during periods of program delivery when coordinating rather than delivering instruction.
Remote and hybrid work options have expanded across the Public Service. Many coordination tasks—such as scheduling, curriculum review, material development, and stakeholder communication—can be performed effectively from home. However, some duties may require on-site presence, particularly when coordinating in-person training events, conducting program evaluations, or meeting with personnel at training facilities.
Flexibility typically increases with experience and role type. Coordinators managing multiple programs may have greater autonomy in arranging work schedules and locations, while those primarily supporting ongoing delivery may have more structured schedules. We encourage discussing specific work arrangement options during the recruitment process and with your hiring manager, as arrangements can vary by unit, project demands, and operational requirements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
