As an Assistant in Diversity, Inclusion and Employment Equity at Department of National Defence, you will support the development and implementation of programs, policies, and initiatives that promote a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. You will work within the Human Resources Management function, helping to ensure that DND creates an environment where all employees can thrive and contribute their best work. This role involves collaborating with various departments and stakeholders to advance diversity initiatives, analyze employment equity data, and support the delivery of inclusion programs across the organization.
Your responsibilities will include assisting in the planning and coordination of diversity and inclusion events, preparing reports and analysis on employment equity metrics, conducting research on best practices in diversity management, and providing administrative support to senior diversity and inclusion specialists. You may also help develop educational materials, coordinate training sessions, and assist with consultation processes involving employee groups and external partners. Your work will directly contribute to building a more representative and inclusive Defence workforce.
You will work in a collaborative office environment, primarily at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa or at other DND locations across Canada. You will interact regularly with Human Resources professionals, program managers, and employees at all levels. The role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a genuine commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion in the federal public service.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver diversity, inclusion and employment equity services to managers and employees, Advise on HR policies, procedures, and best practices, Process HR transactions and maintain accurate records, Support organizational HR initiatives and programs
Required Skills
HR policy interpretation, Interpersonal skills, Staffing and classification, Conflict resolution, Labour relations knowledge, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify for this position, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum requirement. However, most candidates hold a post-secondary qualification such as a diploma or degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Social Sciences, or a related field. Some candidates may have relevant certifications in diversity and inclusion, employment equity, or human resources management.
Professional development opportunities in this role include pursuing certifications through recognized bodies such as the Canadian HR Professionals Association (CHRPA) or the Institute for Workplace Professionals. The Government of Canada provides access to learning and development programs, including online courses in diversity and inclusion, employment equity legislation, and HR fundamentals. Many employees in this career path pursue further education, such as a degree or diploma in Human Resources Management or a related discipline. DND also supports professional development through mentoring, attendance at conferences, and participation in government-wide HR networks and communities of practice.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career in the federal Public Service through several pathways. The primary route is through a public service competition advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website. Competitions for Assistant-level positions in Diversity, Inclusion and Employment Equity are typically open to Canadian citizens and may be advertised as either internal (for current federal employees) or open competitions (for the general public).
If you are a current federal employee, you may also transition into this role through internal staffing processes, including priority consideration for deployment if positions become available. The Public Service Commission (PSC) manages most recruitment and selection processes. Some candidates enter through student employment programs such as the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or the Canada Graduate Internship Program (CGIP), which can lead to permanent positions. Lateral moves from other HR roles or related administrative positions within DND or other government departments are also common pathways. It is advisable to monitor the Government of Canada Jobs website regularly and connect with DND's HR recruitment team to learn about upcoming opportunities.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for this position, subject to operational requirements and manager approval. Many federal government employees in assistant-level roles successfully work on a part-time basis, whether through reduced hours, compressed work weeks, or job-sharing arrangements. These options are negotiable during the recruitment process or may be arranged after you begin your employment.
Remote work and telework options have become increasingly common in the federal public service, particularly for administrative and support roles. Depending on the specific duties and your manager's approval, you may be able to work from home on a full-time, part-time, or hybrid basis. Flexible work arrangements such as flexible start and end times may also be available to support work-life balance. It is important to discuss specific work arrangement preferences during your interview or once hired, as these options depend on the position's requirements, team needs, and management discretion. The federal government is committed to supporting flexible work as part of its efforts to create a more inclusive workplace for all employees.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
