As an AI Compliance Advisor with the Department of National Defence, you will play a critical role in ensuring that artificial intelligence systems and initiatives align with federal regulations, policies, and ethical standards. You will work within the AI Governance & Standards family, providing expert advice to project teams, senior leadership, and stakeholders on compliance requirements, risk mitigation, and best practices for AI implementation across defence operations and support functions.
Your responsibilities will include reviewing AI projects for compliance with Treasury Board Secretariat directives, the Directive on Automated Decision-Making, and other relevant federal frameworks. You will assess risks associated with AI systems, develop compliance strategies, and provide guidance on responsible AI principles including transparency, accountability, and fairness. You will collaborate with technical teams, security specialists, and policy experts to ensure that AI initiatives meet both operational requirements and governance standards.
You will work in a dynamic environment where technology and policy intersect. This role requires you to stay current with evolving AI regulations and international standards while working within a complex organization. You may work with multiple departments, military units, and external partners. This position offers the opportunity to shape how Canada's defence organization responsibly adopts artificial intelligence technologies.
Key Responsibilities
Contribute to artificial intelligence (ai) governance & standards projects and initiatives, Develop, test, and deploy AI/ML models and solutions, Analyze data to support evidence-based decision-making, Document technical approaches and ensure responsible AI practices
Required Skills
Python/R programming, Machine learning frameworks, Data analysis, Statistical modelling, Critical thinking, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To succeed as an AI Compliance Advisor, you should have post-secondary education in computer science, information technology, law, policy, governance, or a related field. Many successful candidates hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience.
Key competencies include knowledge of AI/machine learning fundamentals, federal legislation and policies (particularly Treasury Board directives), risk assessment methodologies, and compliance frameworks. Professional certifications in governance, risk management, or information security (such as CISSP, CRISC, or equivalent) are valued. Government of Canada employees have access to professional development funding to pursue relevant certifications and courses in AI ethics, data governance, and emerging compliance standards.
DND provides on-the-job training in defence-specific policies, security protocols, and organizational processes. You will have opportunities to develop expertise through departmental learning programs, government-wide training initiatives, and collaboration with subject matter experts across the federal AI governance community.
Entry Plans
There are several pathways to enter this career with the Government of Canada and DND:
**External Recruitment**: Treasury Board Secretariat and DND regularly post competitions for AI Compliance Advisor positions. These are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Competition notices are published on the Government of Canada's Job Bank and departmental websites.
**Student Programs**: The Public Service Commission's Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign and the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) provide opportunities for students to gain experience in federal workplaces. This can lead to Priority Hiring status for subsequent competitions.
**Lateral Moves**: Current federal public servants in related fields—such as policy analysis, IT security, project management, or governance roles—can apply for AI Compliance Advisor positions through internal competitions or by demonstrating transferable skills to hiring managers.
**Indeterminate and Term Positions**: Initial appointments may be on a term basis (1-3 years) or indeterminate (permanent). Term positions often lead to indeterminate status based on performance and organizational needs.
All applicants must pass security clearance requirements, including a reliability check at minimum, with some positions requiring Secret level clearance depending on the work context.
Part-Time Options
DND offers flexible work arrangements for civilian employees, including part-time positions, though availability varies by role and operational requirements. Many AI Compliance Advisor positions are structured as full-time indeterminate roles to ensure continuity and deep engagement with compliance initiatives.
Remote and hybrid work options have become more common in the federal public service post-2020. Depending on the specific position and team, you may have the opportunity to work from home for part of your work week, particularly for policy research, compliance review, and written analysis tasks. Some activities—such as stakeholder meetings, security briefings, or facility-based work—may require in-person presence.
Flexi-place agreements are typically negotiated between employees and their managers based on operational requirements and the nature of the work. Part-time opportunities do exist but may be limited in this specialized role. Interested candidates should inquire about flexible work options during the recruitment process. All federal employees receive benefits including paid leave, pension plans, and professional development support regardless of work arrangement.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
