As an Awards and Recognition Advisor with the Department of National Defence, you play a vital role in supporting the recognition and appreciation of our civilian workforce. You develop, implement, and manage programs that acknowledge the contributions and achievements of DND employees across the organization. This includes designing recognition frameworks, administering formal award processes, and creating opportunities for meaningful acknowledgment of exceptional performance and service.
Your responsibilities include liaising with managers and human resources teams to identify award candidates, managing nomination and evaluation processes, and providing guidance on recognition best practices. You ensure that recognition programs align with Treasury Board policies, departmental values, and the Public Service Recognition System. You may also develop communication materials, coordinate award ceremonies, and maintain records related to recognition initiatives.
You'll work collaboratively with colleagues across Human Resources, Communications, and various business units. Your work environment typically includes office-based settings with regular interaction with stakeholders at all organizational levels. You may attend recognition events and ceremonies, and your role often requires attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a genuine commitment to celebrating employee achievements.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver awards and recognition 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 pursue this career, you typically need a secondary school diploma (Grade 12) as a minimum, though many candidates have completed post-secondary education in human resources, business administration, or a related field. Some positions may prefer or require a certificate or diploma from a recognized HR program.
While formal certifications are not always mandatory, pursuing professional development in human resources is valuable. Consider credentials from organizations such as the Canadian HR Professionals Association or enrolment in HR-specific courses. Knowledge of Treasury Board policies, Public Service Labour Relations Act requirements, and federal recognition programs is important and can be acquired through on-the-job training and professional development.
The federal government offers learning opportunities through the Canada School of the Public Service and departmental training programs. Once hired, you'll receive orientation on DND-specific policies, recognition frameworks, and HR systems. Ongoing professional development may include attendance at HR conferences, workshops on recognition and engagement strategies, and cross-training within Human Resources functions.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways within the federal Public Service. The most common route is through a public competition posted on the Government of Canada's Job Bank (jobs.gc.ca) or internal DND recruitment notices. These competitions are open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and other eligible candidates.
If you're already working in the federal Public Service, you may access this role through internal competitions or deployment opportunities. Some candidates transition into this position from related HR roles such as Employee Relations, Classification, or Learning and Development. The federal government also operates the Federal Student Work Program and Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign, which can provide entry points for recent graduates.
Lateral moves from provincial or municipal human resources roles, or from the private sector, are possible through external competitions. Priority is often given to candidates with prior federal experience or HR background. We encourage you to subscribe to job alerts and regularly check available postings.
Part-Time Options
Awards and Recognition Advisor positions are typically offered as full-time permanent or term positions. However, the federal Public Service is committed to offering flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible.
Depending on the specific work unit and operational needs, flexible options may include: compressed work weeks, flexible hours within core business hours, telecommuting or remote work for portions of your week, and job sharing in some cases. The extent of flexibility available will depend on the duties of the specific position and approval by your manager and department.
If you're interested in part-time work or specific flexible arrangements, discuss these options during the recruitment process or with your manager once hired. The federal government recognizes the importance of work-life balance and continues to expand flexible work options across the Public Service.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
