Audiologists are healthcare professionals who diagnose, manage, and treat hearing and balance disorders in patients of all ages. In the Department of National Defence (DND), audiologists provide essential services to Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members, veterans, and their families. You will conduct comprehensive hearing assessments, recommend and fit hearing aids and other assistive devices, provide counselling on hearing conservation, and develop rehabilitation plans for individuals with hearing loss or vestibular disorders.
As an audiologist in DND, your work environment will include modern clinical facilities on military bases and veterans' centres across Canada. You will collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, and rehabilitation specialists, to provide integrated care. Your responsibilities may include conducting audiometric testing, performing tympanometry and other diagnostic procedures, fitting and adjusting hearing aids, conducting hearing conservation programs, and providing patient education. You will also maintain detailed clinical records and contribute to evidence-based practice within the organization.
This role offers the opportunity to serve Canada's military community while making a direct impact on the quality of life of CAF members and veterans. You will work in a structured healthcare environment with access to professional development opportunities and the satisfaction of serving those who have served Canada.
Key Responsibilities
Provide general health care and social services services to clients and patients, Assess needs and develop treatment or service plans, Maintain accurate clinical and case records, Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver care
Required Skills
Clinical skills, Patient/client assessment, Empathy and communication, Record-keeping, Interdisciplinary collaboration, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To become an audiologist in the federal Public Service, you must hold a master's degree in audiology or a related field from a recognized Canadian university or equivalent international qualification. A bachelor's degree in audiology may be considered in some cases, depending on specific position requirements. You must be registered or eligible for registration with the Canadian Academy of Audiology (CAA) or your provincial/territorial regulatory body. Some positions may require completion of a doctoral degree (Au.D. or Ph.D.) in audiology.
Professional certifications and memberships are important for career advancement. These include registration with provincial regulatory colleges (such as Professional Engineers Ontario - PEO - or equivalent bodies in other provinces) and membership with professional organizations like the Canadian Academy of Audiology. DND supports ongoing professional development through access to continuing education courses, conferences, workshops, and specialized training in areas such as hearing aid fitting, vestibular rehabilitation, and hearing conservation. As a federal employee, you will have opportunities to pursue additional qualifications and stay current with advances in audiology practice through funded professional development initiatives.
Entry Plans
Entry into the DND civilian workforce as an audiologist typically occurs through open competitions posted on the Public Service Commission (PSC) website and the DND Civilian Workforce careers portal. These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who meet the stated qualifications. You may enter at the employee level, with opportunities for advancement to senior roles based on experience and performance.
DND occasionally recruits through targeted student programs and early-career initiatives for recent graduates with relevant degrees. If you are transitioning from another federal department or organization, you may be eligible for lateral moves or internal competitions, which can facilitate faster entry into DND. Candidates with prior military experience, including time served as a CAF member, may have additional advantages during the recruitment process.
To prepare for entry, ensure your professional credentials are current and recognized in Canada, and familiarize yourself with DND's organizational structure and mission. You can monitor the PSC Jobs portal and the DND website for advertised positions. Networking with current DND health professionals and seeking informational interviews can provide valuable insights into the application process and organizational culture.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for audiologists in DND, depending on operational requirements and the specific position. Many DND health services facilities operate during extended hours to accommodate CAF member schedules, which may create opportunities for part-time shifts, job sharing, or flexible scheduling arrangements. These options are typically negotiated on a case-by-case basis with your manager and human resources.
Remote work opportunities for audiologists are limited due to the clinical nature of the role, which requires in-person patient assessment, testing, and device fitting. However, some administrative, educational, or consultation-based tasks may be completed remotely. DND is committed to supporting work-life balance for its employees and encourages discussions with managers about flexible arrangements that meet both operational needs and personal circumstances. As a federal employee, you will also have access to additional benefits such as flexible leave options, family-related leave, and telework provisions for non-clinical duties when available.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
