As a Conflict Management Advisor with the Department of National Defence, you will provide expert guidance and support to help resolve workplace disputes and promote positive working relationships across the organization. You will work with managers, employees, and teams to address conflicts early, develop practical solutions, and build a more collaborative workplace culture. This role is essential to maintaining a healthy work environment where employees can focus on their duties and contribute effectively to DND's mission.
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include assessing conflict situations, mediating between parties, facilitating dialogue, and recommending conflict resolution strategies tailored to specific circumstances. You will consult with stakeholders at all levels, from frontline staff to senior management, and coordinate with Human Resources, Labour Relations, and other support services. You may also develop training materials, conduct workshops on conflict prevention, and monitor the effectiveness of resolution approaches.
You will work in a diverse, mission-focused environment where your ability to listen, remain neutral, and build trust is valued. Positions are available across DND locations, including National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa, regional offices, and military bases. The role offers opportunities to make a meaningful difference in employees' work lives while supporting the Department's operational readiness and organizational effectiveness.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver conflict management 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 a Conflict Management Advisor position, you typically need a post-secondary degree in human resources, labour relations, psychology, social work, or a related field. Some positions may accept relevant professional experience in place of formal education.
Key certifications and professional development opportunities include: mediation training (recognized by provincial mediation associations), conflict resolution certifications, Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation through the Canadian HR Council, and specialized training in workplace investigations and difficult conversations. The Government of Canada offers internal training programs through the Canada School of Public Service (CSPS) in areas such as federal labour relations, workplace accommodation, and diversity and inclusion.
Ongoing professional development is encouraged, including attendance at conflict management conferences, participation in federal HR networks, and completion of advanced certifications in specialized areas such as psychological health and safety, harassment prevention, and organizational development.
Entry Plans
Entry into the Conflict Management Advisor career in the federal Public Service typically follows these pathways:
**Open Competitions**: DND and other federal departments regularly post competitions for Conflict Management Advisor positions. These are open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and temporary residents eligible to work in Canada. Competitions are advertised on the Government of Canada's Job Bank and departmental career websites.
**Staffing Pools**: The Public Service Commission maintains national or regional staffing pools for HR professionals, including conflict management specialists. Placement in an active pool can lead to multiple job offers without competing in additional selections.
**Lateral Moves**: If you are already employed in the federal Public Service in a related HR position (such as Labour Relations Officer, HR Advisor, or Employee Assistance Program Counsellor), you may be able to move into a Conflict Management Advisor role through internal staffing processes or competitions reserved for current employees.
**Student and Graduate Programs**: DND participates in the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) and the Post-Secondary Recruitment Program (PSRP), which can provide entry-level experience and lead to permanent positions. Recent graduates in HR or related fields are encouraged to apply.
**Indigenous Recruitment**: The federal government has dedicated recruitment initiatives for Indigenous peoples. If you are First Nations, Inuit, or Métis, additional support and opportunities may be available.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are often available for Conflict Management Advisor positions, depending on operational needs and departmental policy. Many DND offices support flexible schedules, compressed work weeks, and job-sharing arrangements to accommodate work-life balance.
Remote and hybrid work options have become increasingly common in this role, particularly for activities such as conflict assessment interviews, mediation sessions, training delivery, and administrative work. However, some in-person interaction with staff and stakeholders may be required, especially during mediation processes or workplace investigations.
Elders and caregiving responsibilities are recognized as important life circumstances. The federal Public Service offers benefits such as parental leave, family caregiver leave, and unpaid personal leave. Employees are encouraged to discuss flexible arrangements with their manager and Human Resources advisor early to find solutions that support both personal needs and operational requirements.
Long-term part-time positions and job-sharing opportunities may be available depending on the specific workplace location and staffing level approved for each position. Interested candidates should inquire about current flexibility options during the application and selection process.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
