As a Cleaner with the Department of National Defence, you play a vital role in maintaining safe, healthy, and professional work environments across our facilities and installations. You are responsible for performing a variety of cleaning and sanitation tasks to ensure that all spaces meet established health and safety standards. Your work directly contributes to the well-being of military personnel, civilian employees, and visitors at DND locations across Canada.
Your daily responsibilities include cleaning and sanitizing offices, corridors, washrooms, and common areas using appropriate cleaning products and equipment. You may operate floor maintenance equipment such as vacuum cleaners, carpet extractors, and floor buffers. You'll also be responsible for removing waste and recyclables, restocking supplies, and reporting maintenance issues or hazards to your supervisor. Attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness are essential to this role.
Cleaners in the federal government work in diverse environments including office buildings, training facilities, barracks, warehouses, and specialized installations. You may work independently or as part of a cleaning team, often during regular business hours, evenings, or weekends depending on facility requirements. This is a hands-on position that requires physical stamina and the ability to work safely while following established protocols.
Key Responsibilities
Perform cleaning services duties within the commerce, retail services and insurance function, Prepare reports and documentation as required, Collaborate with team members and stakeholders, Maintain records and ensure compliance with relevant policies
Required Skills
Client service, Business acumen, Negotiation, Process management, Communication, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent (Grade 12). While formal post-secondary education is not typically required to start as a Cleaner, familiarity with cleaning products, sanitation procedures, and basic health and safety practices is important.
Once hired, the Department provides on-the-job training covering DND-specific cleaning standards, facility layouts, proper use of equipment and chemicals, and health and safety regulations. You may be required to obtain certifications in workplace safety, hazardous materials handling, or WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) depending on your assigned location and tasks.
Professional development opportunities may include advanced training in specialized cleaning techniques, equipment operation, or supervisory skills if you wish to advance your career within the cleaning services sector. Some cleaners progress to lead hand or supervisory positions with additional experience and training.
Entry Plans
Entry to the Cleaner position in the DND civilian workforce typically occurs through public competitions posted on the Government of Canada's job board (jobs.gc.ca). Competitions may be open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and other eligible candidates as specified in individual job notices.
You may also enter through internal pools or lateral moves if you are already a member of the federal public service. Some regional offices maintain recruitment pools of qualified candidates to fill ongoing or seasonal cleaning positions. Student summer employment programs may also offer opportunities to gain experience in this field within DND facilities.
To apply, you will need to submit an application that may include a resume, cover letter, and responses to competency-based questions. Some positions may require a security clearance or criminal record check depending on the facility and access requirements. Interviews are typically conducted to assess your understanding of cleaning procedures, safety awareness, and reliability.
Part-Time Options
Many Cleaner positions within DND are available on a part-time or casual basis, particularly for positions supporting evening or weekend cleaning schedules. This can provide flexibility if you are seeking supplementary income or have other commitments.
Remote work is not applicable to this role, as the work must be performed on-site at DND facilities. However, flexible scheduling is common in the cleaning services field. Depending on your location and facility needs, you may have the opportunity to work various shifts including early mornings, evenings, or weekends. Some positions offer seasonal variation where hours may increase during certain periods.
Part-time casual employees typically receive benefits such as pay in lieu of vacation and statutory holidays, though entitlements may differ from full-time permanent positions. Speak with your local DND Human Resources office about the specific part-time and scheduling options available at your nearest facility.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
