Applied Psychologists in the Department of National Defence provide evidence-based psychological services and expertise to support the health, readiness, and effectiveness of military personnel and their families. Working within a dynamic and mission-critical environment, Applied Psychologists conduct psychological assessments, deliver clinical interventions, provide consultation to leadership, and contribute to organizational research and policy development. They play a vital role in addressing mental health challenges, promoting psychological resilience, and ensuring the wellbeing of those who serve.
The work of an Applied Psychologist at DND involves direct client care, operational support, and strategic contributions to defence initiatives. You may conduct individual or group counselling, perform fitness-for-duty evaluations, assess psychological trauma and mental health conditions, and develop evidence-based programs to enhance unit effectiveness and personnel resilience. You will also consult with commanders and senior leaders on psychological factors affecting operational performance and organizational health.
Applied Psychologists work in diverse settings including military bases across Canada, medical facilities, operational headquarters, and specialized units. The role requires strong interpersonal skills, clinical judgment, cultural competency, and the ability to work effectively in structured military environments. You will collaborate with medical professionals, military personnel, and interdisciplinary teams to deliver comprehensive psychological support.
Key Responsibilities
Perform general arts and social sciences duties within the arts and social sciences function, Prepare reports and documentation as required, Collaborate with team members and stakeholders, Maintain records and ensure compliance with relevant policies
Required Skills
Research methodology, Analytical thinking, Written communication, Policy analysis, Critical reasoning, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify as an Applied Psychologist with the Government of Canada, you must hold a doctoral degree in psychology (PhD or PsyD) from a recognized institution. A master's degree in psychology may be considered in some circumstances, depending on relevant experience and specialization.
You must be registered or eligible for registration as a psychologist in the province or territory where you will work. This typically requires completion of supervised clinical hours, passage of provincial licensing examinations, and adherence to provincial regulatory body standards. Professional credentials such as membership in the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) or provincial college of psychologists are expected.
Specialized training or experience in clinical psychology, counselling psychology, or other applied fields is highly valued. Additional training in areas such as trauma-informed care, operational psychology, military culture, or occupational health psychology strengthens your candidacy. DND provides ongoing professional development opportunities, including access to specialized training, conferences, and continuing education to maintain clinical competency and advance expertise in defence-specific psychological practice.
Entry Plans
Entry into the Applied Psychologist position at DND typically occurs through advertised Public Service competitions. The Government of Canada conducts staffing processes that assess candidates on education, professional credentials, clinical experience, and relevant competencies. You may enter through various recruitment streams:
Open competitions are advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website and are open to qualified Canadian citizens and permanent residents. These competitions may be national in scope or specific to regional needs. Some positions may be filled through targeted recruitment for graduates of federal student internship programs or through lateral transfers from other federal organizations where you hold equivalent or related positions.
Candidates with current provincial registration as a practicing psychologist and a strong background in clinical practice or military-relevant psychology are particularly competitive. The selection process includes application review, written assessments, and interviews evaluating your clinical competence, understanding of military culture, and ability to work in a federal government context. As an Employee-level position, this role does not involve a managerial career track, though opportunities may exist to develop specialized expertise or take on advisory roles.
Part-Time Options
Applied Psychologist positions at DND are typically offered on a full-time, permanent basis due to the specialized nature of clinical and operational psychological work. However, flexible work arrangements may be negotiable depending on operational requirements and management approval.
Remote work options vary based on the specific duties assigned and organizational needs. While some consultation, report writing, and administrative work can be conducted remotely, direct client care, assessments, and operational support generally require on-site presence at military facilities. Hybrid arrangements combining office-based clinical work with remote administrative duties may be possible in certain circumstances.
Partial year or job-sharing arrangements are not commonly available for this role given the clinical nature of the work and the need for continuity of psychological services to personnel. However, all employees are entitled to statutory leave entitlements and may be eligible for unpaid leave options in accordance with Public Service labour agreements. Prospective candidates should discuss flexible work possibilities during the hiring process with the specific hiring manager and human resources advisor.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
