As a Business Intelligence Analyst in Economic Research with the Department of National Defence, you will play a crucial role in transforming complex economic data into actionable insights that support defence and security policy decisions. You will analyze economic trends, defence spending patterns, and market data to provide evidence-based research that informs strategic planning and resource allocation across the department. This position combines analytical rigour with practical application, ensuring that DND leadership has access to timely, accurate economic intelligence.
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include collecting and validating large datasets, developing analytical models, creating visualizations and reports, and presenting findings to senior management and policy teams. You will work with various economic indicators, procurement data, and industry analysis to support departmental priorities such as defence industrial capacity, supply chain resilience, and cost-benefit analysis of major initiatives. You will collaborate with colleagues across DND, other government departments, and external research institutions to ensure analytical standards are met and insights are comprehensive.
You will work in a collaborative, fast-paced environment where your contributions directly influence defence policy and operations. The role offers exposure to national security issues, access to specialized economic databases and tools, and the opportunity to develop expertise in defence economics. Most positions are located in major centres such as Ottawa, but remote work arrangements are increasingly available depending on operational requirements and team structure.
Key Responsibilities
Perform data management activities per GC IM policies, Manage information assets through their lifecycle, Ensure compliance with access to information and privacy requirements, Support information governance and standards
Required Skills
Records management, ATIP legislation, Information governance, Classification systems, Digital literacy, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
Minimum education: A bachelor's degree in economics, statistics, business administration, public administration, or a related quantitative discipline is typically required. Preference is given to candidates with a master's degree in economics, public policy, business intelligence, or data science.
Essential technical skills include proficiency with data analysis tools and software such as Python, R, SQL, Tableau, or Power BI. Strong statistical knowledge, experience with large datasets, and familiarity with economic research methods are important. Government of Canada experience with systems such as IMIS or departmental databases is an asset.
Professional development opportunities within DND include access to Statistics Canada's analytical resources, training through the Canada School of Public Service, and certifications in business intelligence tools and advanced analytics. Many employees pursue professional designation through bodies such as Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) or the Canadian Economics Association. Internal mentoring programs pair analysts with senior researchers, and employees are encouraged to contribute to departmental publications and present at professional conferences.
Entry Plans
The primary pathway into this role is through Government of Canada staffing competitions, which are advertised on the Public Service Commission's job board and the DND Civilian Careers website. Competitions typically require you to submit an application, pass a written assessment, and attend an interview with a selection board. Positions are classified at the Economics and Social Science Services group (EC), usually at the EC-03 or EC-04 level for entry positions.
The Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC) and the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) offer pathways for recent graduates and current students to gain experience and be considered for priority placement. Lateral moves from other federal departments with relevant analytical or research experience are also common, and your previous government service may be recognized in the competition process.
Candidate pools may be established by departments to fill multiple positions over a set period, allowing successful candidates to be hired as vacancies arise. The Government of Canada also occasionally recruits from external talent pools through open competitions if qualified internal candidates are unavailable. Early-career economists and analysts are encouraged to build experience through contract or term positions before pursuing permanent appointments.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for this role, subject to operational needs and team requirements. Many positions can be structured as part-time (typically 50 to 80 percent of full-time hours) to accommodate caregiving responsibilities, education, or other commitments. Flexible hours within a standard work week are common, allowing analysts to balance early morning and late afternoon commitments with core business hours.
Remote work is increasingly available for Business Intelligence Analysts, particularly for data analysis, research, and reporting tasks that do not require regular in-person collaboration. Many employees work on a hybrid model, splitting time between the office and home, with office days scheduled for team meetings, stakeholder presentations, and collaborative projects. The specific remote and flexible arrangement depends on your team's operational requirements and your manager's approval, but the role is generally well-suited to flexible delivery.
Employees with permanent status may also explore job sharing or compressed work weeks in some cases. Part-time work does not affect your eligibility for benefits and pension contributions, which are prorated based on hours worked. Requests for flexible arrangements are typically accommodated during the hiring process or after a successful probationary period.
