As an Animator in Graphic Design and Illustration within the Department of National Defence, you will create engaging visual content that communicates complex defence and military information to internal and external audiences. Your work will include designing animations, illustrations, and graphics for digital platforms, publications, training materials, and public communications. You will collaborate with communications teams, subject matter experts, and other creative professionals to transform concepts into compelling visual narratives that support DND's mission and messaging.
In this role, you will use industry-standard design software and animation tools to produce high-quality visual content that meets federal accessibility and branding standards. Your responsibilities will include developing storyboards, creating motion graphics, designing illustrations, and ensuring all outputs align with the Canadian Armed Forces visual identity guidelines. You will work within established project timelines and budgets while maintaining creative excellence and responsiveness to stakeholder feedback.
You will work in a collaborative communications environment within DND, interacting with policy teams, external partners, and fellow creative professionals. This position offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to national defence communications while developing your expertise in animation and graphic design within a stable, values-driven organization.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and deliver graphic design 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
To pursue this career in the federal Public Service, you typically require a diploma or degree in graphic design, animation, digital media, fine arts, or a related field from a recognized institution. Relevant coursework should include animation principles, digital design software, illustration techniques, and visual communications.
Professional certifications in industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, Premiere Pro) or equivalent animation and design tools are highly valued. Experience with motion graphics software, 3D animation tools, and web design platforms strengthens your candidacy.
Once hired with the federal Public Service, you will have access to professional development opportunities including training in DND-specific communications guidelines, Treasury Board standards for digital accessibility, and advanced animation techniques. DND supports continuous learning through online courses, workshops, and industry certifications. Many employees pursue additional qualifications in specialized areas such as interactive design, virtual reality content creation, or advanced video production to advance their careers.
Entry Plans
Entry into this career with DND typically occurs through federal public service competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank and DND's careers website. Positions are posted at various classification levels (AS-02, AS-03, AS-04) depending on experience and qualifications. You may apply directly to specific DND vacancies or enter through a public service staffing process.
The federal government also operates student and early-career recruitment programs. The Co-op Student Program provides work-integrated learning opportunities for post-secondary students, while the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) offers students summer or part-time employment. These programs provide valuable experience and may lead to indeterminate positions.
If you are already a federal public service employee, you may apply for animator positions through internal competitions or lateral moves. DND values internal mobility and may provide development opportunities to qualified employees in related communications or design roles who wish to transition into animation specialization. Demonstrating a strong portfolio of relevant work during any application process significantly strengthens your candidacy.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for animator positions within DND, subject to operational requirements and manager approval. Many communications teams operate with flexible schedules to accommodate project deadlines and stakeholder needs.
Remote and hybrid work options have expanded across the federal public service, including DND civilian positions. Depending on the specific role and location, you may be able to work from home for a portion of your week, with in-office time for collaboration on creative projects and team coordination. The availability of remote work is determined during the staffing process and may vary based on whether you require access to specialized equipment or collaborative design spaces.
Job sharing and compressed work weeks may also be negotiated with your manager, subject to operational capacity. DND is committed to supporting work-life balance for its civilian workforce and encourages conversations about flexible arrangements that meet both employee and organizational needs. Specific options are discussed during onboarding and can be revisited as your career with DND evolves.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
