As an Advertising Officer with the Department of National Defence, you will develop and execute advertising campaigns that effectively communicate DND and Canadian Armed Forces messages to diverse audiences across Canada. You will work collaboratively with marketing professionals, communications teams, and external partners to create compelling advertising content that supports recruitment, public awareness, and strategic communications objectives.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include researching target audiences, developing advertising strategies, creating or directing the creation of advertising materials, managing advertising budgets, and evaluating campaign effectiveness. You will work with various media channels including digital platforms, traditional media, and social networks to ensure messages reach intended audiences. This role requires strong creative thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to work within government communications guidelines and Treasury Board standards.
You will work in a professional office environment, typically at a DND location or National Defence Headquarters. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to meaningful public service communications while developing expertise in modern advertising practices within a complex federal organization.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and deliver advertising and marketing 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 candidates hold a bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, advertising, business, or a related field. Some positions may accept equivalent work experience in advertising or marketing roles. Professional certifications such as the Advertising Standards Canada certification or digital marketing credentials are considered assets.
Once hired, you will receive on-the-job training specific to DND communications policies, procurement processes, and federal advertising regulations. The Department supports ongoing professional development through access to training in new advertising technologies, data analytics, and communications trends. You may have opportunities to pursue certifications in digital marketing, social media strategy, or project management through federal learning programs. Participation in Government of Canada communications communities of practice provides networking and skill-building opportunities.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways in the federal Public Service. Most commonly, positions are filled through open public competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions are open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and others who meet eligibility requirements.
Lateral moves from other government departments or agencies with advertising, marketing, or communications experience are also possible. Some candidates progress into Advertising Officer roles from junior communications or marketing assistant positions within DND. The federal government occasionally offers bridging programs and pools for recent graduates and early-career professionals in communications fields. Student work-study programs and co-op placements provide entry opportunities for students currently enrolled in relevant programs, potentially leading to indeterminate positions upon graduation.
When applying, you should highlight your advertising campaign experience, understanding of target audience analysis, proficiency with advertising platforms and tools, and any experience with government or public sector communications.
Part-Time Options
Many Advertising Officer positions offer flexible work arrangements, though specific options depend on operational needs and the particular location within DND. Remote work is increasingly available for portions of the role, particularly for tasks involving research, strategy development, and content creation, though some in-office time is typically required for collaboration and meetings.
Part-time opportunities exist but are less common for this role due to the ongoing nature of campaign management and coordination requirements. Job-sharing arrangements may be negotiable depending on the specific position and team needs. Flexible hours, compressed work weeks, and telecommuting options are often available to support work-life balance. Interested candidates should discuss flexibility options during the recruitment process, as arrangements are determined on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the hiring manager and aligned with operational requirements.
