A Translation Clerk plays a vital role in the Department of National Defence's communications and linguistic services. You will provide high-quality translation and interpretation support across the department, ensuring clear and accurate communication between English and French-speaking personnel, stakeholders, and the public. This position is essential to maintaining bilingual service delivery across all DND operations and initiatives.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include translating documents such as correspondence, reports, policies, and procedural materials from one official language to another. You will also assist with interpretation during meetings and briefings, proofread translated materials for accuracy and consistency, and maintain translation glossaries and terminology databases specific to military and defence terminology. You may work with specialized subject matter, ranging from administrative documents to technical military communications.
As a Translation Clerk, you will work within a professional office environment, typically within a linguistic services unit or communications branch. You'll collaborate with translators, editors, managers, and subject matter experts to ensure translations meet departmental standards and deadlines. This role requires attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic federal workplace.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and deliver linguistic services products and services, Draft content for various channels and audiences, Coordinate with stakeholders on messaging and approvals, Monitor and evaluate communications effectiveness
Required Skills
Writing and editing, Strategic thinking, Media relations, Digital content creation, Stakeholder engagement, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
Most positions require a secondary school diploma or equivalent as a minimum educational qualification. Many successful candidates possess post-secondary education in translation, linguistics, interpretation, or a related field from an accredited Canadian institution. Some positions may accept candidates with equivalent work experience in translation or linguistic services.
Bilingual proficiency in English and French is a core requirement. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in both official languages, typically verified through the Public Service Commission's language testing (written and oral assessments). Professional certifications such as membership in professional translation associations (for example, the Canadian Translators, Terminologists and Interpreters Council) can strengthen your candidacy.
Once hired, you will receive on-the-job training in DND-specific terminology, classification systems, and departmental translation standards. The department supports ongoing professional development, including access to terminology databases, style guides, and opportunities to upgrade language skills. You may also pursue training in specialized areas such as military terminology, technical writing, or new translation software platforms.
Entry Plans
The primary way to enter this career in the federal Public Service is through a competitive staffing process. The Public Service Commission (PSC) regularly advertises Translation Clerk positions across DND. You can monitor job postings on the Government of Canada's official job board (jobs.gc.ca) and the DND Civilian Careers website.
Eligibility typically requires Canadian citizenship and a valid security clearance. Some positions may be filled through lateral moves from other federal departments if you already hold a similar linguistic services position within the Public Service. The department also considers indeterminate (permanent) and term appointment options depending on operational needs.
Students in linguistics, translation, or interpretation programs should inquire about the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or post-graduation recruitment programs. These pathways provide valuable experience within DND and can lead to permanent positions. Candidates with recent translation credentials may also be considered through bridging programs designed to bring specialized professionals into the federal workforce.
Part-Time Options
Translation Clerk positions are typically available on a full-time, indeterminate basis; however, the department does offer flexibility depending on operational needs and individual circumstances. Some term or casual positions may offer reduced hours or fixed-term contracts that provide scheduling flexibility.
Remote and hybrid work arrangements have become more common in administrative and linguistic services roles within DND. Depending on your work unit and management approval, you may be eligible to work from home for a portion of your week, particularly for translation and editing tasks that require focused concentration. The department balances remote work with in-office collaboration to maintain team cohesion and ensure effective communication with colleagues and subject matter experts.
Flexible work arrangements, including compressed work weeks or staggered schedules, may be negotiated with your manager based on operational requirements and collective agreement provisions. Work-life balance and accommodation requests are considered within the constraints of departmental service delivery. Interested candidates should discuss flexibility options during the recruitment process and with their assigned manager upon hiring.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
