As an Other Human Resources (HR) Programs Assistant, you will provide administrative and operational support to human resources programs and initiatives within Department of National Defence (DND) offices. You will assist in the delivery of HR services by handling clerical tasks, maintaining records, processing documentation, and coordinating program activities. This role is essential to ensuring HR programs run smoothly and that employees receive timely support.
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include preparing and organizing HR documents, maintaining personnel files, scheduling appointments and meetings, processing applications and forms, and communicating with employees and managers. You may also assist with data entry, record keeping, tracking program metrics, and providing general administrative support to HR teams.
You will work in a professional office environment, typically at a DND headquarters, regional office, or military installation. You will interact regularly with HR professionals, managers, and employees across the organization. This position offers the opportunity to develop valuable skills in human resources operations while contributing directly to the effectiveness of DND's HR programs.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver other human resources (hr) programs services to managers and employees, Advise on HR policies, procedures, and best practices, Process HR transactions and maintain accurate records, Support organizational HR initiatives and programs
Required Skills
HR policy interpretation, Interpersonal skills, Staffing and classification, Conflict resolution, Labour relations knowledge, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To be considered for this position, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some positions may prefer post-secondary education in business administration, human resources, or a related field.
Key skills include strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and government computer systems, and excellent written and verbal communication skills. Many candidates benefit from experience with databases, document management systems, and general office administration.
Once hired, you will receive on-the-job training specific to DND policies, procedures, and HR systems. The Government of Canada offers professional development opportunities, including courses in HR fundamentals, office administration, and government systems. Many employees pursue certifications through professional organizations like the Canadian Industrial Relations Association or Human Resources Professionals Association to advance their careers.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career in the federal Public Service through several pathways:
**Public Service Job Competitions**: DND regularly posts competitions for HR Programs Assistant positions on the Government of Canada's Job Bank and internal staffing platforms. These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
**Student and Graduate Programs**: The Government of Canada offers Post-Secondary Recruitment (PSR) and Co-op/Internship programs for recent graduates and current students, which can lead to permanent positions.
**Lateral Moves**: If you are already a federal public servant in another department or classification, you may apply for competitions or be considered for internal transfers.
**Pools**: Some departments maintain staffing pools of pre-screened candidates, which can accelerate the hiring process.
Competitions typically assess your administrative skills, communication abilities, and suitability for working in a government HR environment through written exams, interviews, and reference checks.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are often available for HR Programs Assistant positions, depending on operational needs and departmental policies. Many DND offices support flexible scheduling, compressed work weeks, and job sharing arrangements where feasible.
Remote or hybrid work options have expanded across the federal public service and may be available for certain HR Programs Assistant duties, particularly those involving data entry, document processing, and administrative tasks that do not require in-person interaction. However, some responsibilities may require on-site presence, especially those involving direct employee service or accessing secure systems at DND facilities.
We encourage you to discuss flexible work arrangements during the recruitment process and with your hiring manager, as options vary by location and operational requirements. All federal employees are entitled to work-life balance considerations within the framework of operational needs.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
