As a Technician - Wildlife with the Department of National Defence, you will support critical environmental management and conservation initiatives across Canadian military installations and training areas. You will work alongside biologists and environmental specialists to conduct field surveys, collect biological data, monitor wildlife populations, and assess environmental conditions on defence lands. Your work directly contributes to maintaining healthy ecosystems while ensuring DND operations are conducted responsibly and in compliance with federal environmental legislation.
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include conducting wildlife surveys and inventories, setting up and maintaining monitoring equipment, collecting and analyzing environmental samples, documenting observations and data, and preparing technical reports. You may work in diverse environments including forests, wetlands, coastal areas, and grasslands across Canada. You will operate field equipment, use geographic information systems (GIS) for mapping and data analysis, and collaborate with other technical staff and external environmental partners to achieve conservation objectives.
This role offers the opportunity to work outdoors in natural settings while contributing to meaningful environmental stewardship. You will be part of a professional team dedicated to protecting Canada's natural heritage on military lands, and your technical expertise will be valued in supporting evidence-based decision-making on environmental management.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct forestry research, monitoring, and analysis, Collect and interpret environmental or scientific data, Prepare technical reports and recommendations, Support regulatory compliance and stewardship programs
Required Skills
Scientific methodology, Field research, Environmental assessment, Data interpretation, Regulatory compliance, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify for this position, you typically need a diploma or certificate in a relevant field such as wildlife biology, environmental science, forest technology, or biological sciences from a recognized institution. Some positions may accept applicants with a high school diploma and demonstrated practical experience in wildlife or environmental work.
You should have foundational knowledge of wildlife identification, ecological principles, field sampling methods, and basic data analysis. Computer literacy is essential, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and ideally GIS software. Many successful candidates pursue certifications in areas such as wildlife surveying techniques, GPS and mapping technology, or environmental assessment methodologies.
Professional development opportunities within the Public Service include advanced training in specialized survey methods, GIS certification programs, environmental legislation and compliance, and leadership development as you progress in your career. DND and the federal government support ongoing learning through tuition assistance programs and access to professional development courses. Many technicians pursue further education while employed, including university degrees in environmental science or related fields.
Entry Plans
Entry into this career with DND typically occurs through Public Service staffing competitions. The most common pathway is applying to open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's job board (jobs.gc.ca) or through DND's recruitment channels. Positions may be advertised at multiple experience levels (entry, intermediate, advanced) depending on your qualifications and the specific vacancy.
If you are a recent graduate, DND participates in federal student recruitment programs including the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) and the Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC), which provide pathways to permanent employment. These programs allow you to gain practical experience while studying or immediately after graduation.
Lateral movement from other federal departments or agencies is also possible if you hold equivalent technical qualifications and experience. Current Public Service employees may apply for competitions with some advantages in the hiring process. Contract or term positions sometimes lead to permanent roles as funding and operational needs are confirmed. We recommend subscribing to job alerts on jobs.gc.ca and monitoring DND's careers website for current openings in your region.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements for Technician - Wildlife positions vary depending on operational requirements and the specific location. While field work for wildlife surveys and environmental monitoring often follows seasonal patterns and project-based schedules, many positions can accommodate flexible hour arrangements outside of peak survey seasons.
Remote work options are limited due to the nature of field-based biological and environmental work; however, data analysis, report writing, and administrative aspects of the role may be performed remotely. Some employees successfully negotiate flexible schedules that align with wildlife survey seasons, working extended hours during active field seasons and reduced hours during winter months or administrative periods.
Job sharing and part-time permanent positions do exist within the federal Public Service and may be available for this classification, though availability depends on operational needs and budgets at specific DND locations. We encourage candidates to discuss flexible work arrangements with hiring managers during the recruitment process, as accommodations can often be made to support work-life balance while meeting operational requirements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
