Agricultural Specialists in the Department of National Defence provide expert advice and support on agricultural practices, land management, and environmental sustainability across DND properties and operations. You will apply your knowledge of modern agriculture, soil science, crop management, and environmental stewardship to help DND maintain productive and sustainable lands while meeting federal environmental standards. Your work directly supports the Department's operational readiness and environmental commitments.
In this role, you will conduct assessments of agricultural land, develop management plans, provide technical advice to base commanders and facility managers, and ensure compliance with federal environmental regulations. You may work on diverse projects including sustainable farming practices, pest management, soil conservation, and coordination with external agricultural partners and Indigenous communities. Your recommendations help balance operational needs with environmental protection and climate change adaptation.
You will work primarily in office and field settings, visiting DND properties across Canada to assess conditions, collect data, and implement programs. This role offers opportunities to contribute to the Department's operations while addressing real environmental challenges on federal lands.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct agriculture 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
You must have a bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or a related field from a recognized Canadian or international institution. Relevant professional experience in agricultural advisory services, land management, or environmental consulting is highly valued. Some positions may require certification as a Professional Agrologist (P.Ag.) through provincial regulatory bodies such as Professional Agrologists of Canada, particularly for senior roles.
Continuing professional development is encouraged and supported. You may pursue additional certifications in specialized areas such as organic farming practices, precision agriculture, soil health management, or environmental assessment. DND supports participation in professional associations like the Canadian Society of Agronomy and relevant conferences to keep current with evolving agricultural science and federal environmental policies.
Entry Plans
Most Agricultural Specialist positions are filled through open public service competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's Job Bank and the DND Civilian Recruitment website. Candidates must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents and pass security screening.
You may enter through various pathways depending on your background: recent graduates can apply to entry-level positions or participate in DND's student recruitment programs and internships; professionals from provincial agriculture ministries, research institutions, or private agricultural consulting firms can apply directly to positions matching their experience level; current federal public service employees can apply internally or transfer laterally from related environmental or technical roles.
The Public Service Commission conducts most competitions using a combination of written assessments, technical evaluations, and interviews to assess your knowledge, analytical skills, and communication abilities. Some positions may use priority hiring pools or staffing plans for former public service employees.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available in many Agricultural Specialist positions, though availability varies by location and operational needs. Given the nature of agricultural work, some fieldwork and site visits during growing seasons may require full-time presence, but office-based analysis, reporting, and planning work can often accommodate flexible schedules.
Remote work options exist for certain tasks such as data analysis, report writing, literature review, and consultation via video conference. However, the field assessment and advisory components of this role typically require in-person presence at DND properties. Managers work with employees to establish flexible arrangements that balance operational requirements with work-life balance. Telework eligibility and specific arrangements should be confirmed during the recruitment process with the hiring manager.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
