Environmental Scientists at National Defence play a critical role in protecting Canada's environment and ensuring Defence operations comply with federal and provincial environmental regulations. You will conduct research, assessments, and monitoring activities to identify environmental risks, develop solutions, and support evidence-based decision-making across Defence facilities and operations. Your work directly contributes to DND's commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable operations.
As an Environmental Scientist, your day-to-day responsibilities include collecting and analyzing environmental data, conducting environmental impact assessments, preparing technical reports, and providing expert advice to project managers and senior leadership. You may work on diverse files ranging from contaminated site remediation and hazardous waste management to wildlife habitat protection and climate change adaptation. Your findings inform policy development, operational planning, and compliance strategies across Defence.
You will work in a collaborative environment alongside other scientists, engineers, military personnel, and external partners including provincial ministries and environmental consultants. Your role combines laboratory work, field investigations, and office-based analysis. You may conduct fieldwork in various Canadian climates and terrain, and travel to Defence installations across the country.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct environmental 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 Environmental Scientist with DND, you typically need a bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, chemistry, geology, or a related natural science discipline. Many successful candidates hold advanced degrees (master's or PhD) in environmental science or a specialized field. Professional certification or registration as a Professional Scientist (P.Sc.) with Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) or equivalent provincial bodies is an asset and may be required for certain positions.
Ongoing professional development is encouraged and supported. You will have access to training in specialized environmental assessment methods, regulatory frameworks, data management software, and emerging technologies in environmental monitoring. DND supports employees pursuing professional certifications and memberships in organizations such as the Canadian Environmental Law Association or the International Association for Environmental Assessment. You may also participate in interdisciplinary training related to Defence operations, security protocols, and collaborative project management.
Entry Plans
You can enter the Environmental Scientist career with DND through several pathways. The primary route is through a Public Service Commission (PSC) advertised competition, where positions are posted on the Government of Canada job board (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions are typically open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents and include a structured selection process.
Alternatively, you may enter through the Federal Student Work Program if you are currently enrolled in post-secondary studies, or through the Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC) if you are a recent graduate. Lateral moves into this position are also possible if you are already working in another federal department in a related scientific or technical role.
DND also participates in recruitment fairs at Canadian universities with strong environmental science, biology, and chemistry programs. Building a professional network within Canada's environmental science community and engaging with DND's recruitment events can enhance your visibility for future opportunities.
Part-Time Options
Environmental Scientist positions at DND typically operate on a full-time basis due to the technical nature of the work and the need for sustained project continuity. However, flexible work arrangements may be negotiable depending on operational requirements and facility location.
Remote work options are possible for certain analytical, reporting, and administrative tasks, though field work and laboratory analysis generally require on-site presence. Work-from-home flexibility is more readily available for data analysis, literature review, and report writing phases of projects. Part-time or job-sharing arrangements are not standard for this classification, but employees may access leave benefits including parental leave, unpaid leave for personal reasons, and flexible scheduling within operational constraints. Telework eligibility varies by work location and project demands, so specific arrangements should be discussed during the hiring process and with your supervisor.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
