As a Conflict Management Policy Advisor with the Department of National Defence, you will develop, implement, and evaluate policies and programs that promote healthy workplace relations and prevent or resolve conflicts within the organization. You will work at the intersection of human resources management and organizational development, providing expert guidance to senior leaders and managers on conflict prevention strategies, resolution processes, and best practices. Your work directly contributes to building a respectful and inclusive DND workplace where personnel can perform at their best.
Your responsibilities include analyzing workplace conflict trends, researching evidence-based conflict management approaches, drafting policy documents and directives, and providing advice to managers on handling difficult workplace situations. You will collaborate with human resources professionals, labour relations specialists, occupational health and safety teams, and senior management to ensure conflict management strategies align with DND values and federal legislation. You may also design training programs, develop communication materials, and monitor the effectiveness of conflict management initiatives across the organization.
You will work in an office environment, primarily at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa or at other DND locations across Canada. This role requires strong analytical skills, excellent written and verbal communication, and the ability to handle sensitive interpersonal matters with discretion and professionalism.
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
A bachelor's degree in human resources management, business administration, psychology, industrial relations, or a related field is typically required. Some positions may accept extensive relevant work experience in lieu of formal education. Professional certifications such as Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP), Certified Mediator, or designations from the Canadian HR association (CHRP) are highly valued and may be required depending on the specific position level. DND provides professional development opportunities including conflict resolution training, mediation courses, policy development workshops, and leadership training. You will have access to federal learning portals, external conference attendance, and mentoring programs to develop expertise in workplace conflict management, labour relations legislation, and organizational psychology.
Entry Plans
Entry into this career with the Government of Canada typically occurs through federal Public Service Commission (PSC) job competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca). Positions are usually open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and existing federal public servants. Many organizations use inventory lists or talent pools to fill positions more quickly—you may be hired from an existing pool of pre-screened candidates without a new competition. Lateral moves from other federal departments are common, particularly from other human resources or labour relations roles. Some recruitment may occur through post-secondary recruitment campaigns targeting recent graduates, or through the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) which can lead to permanent positions. Veterans and Indigenous peoples may have access to targeted recruitment initiatives. Competition processes typically include a written assessment, telephone or video interview, and panel interview.
Part-Time Options
Part-time work is available in this career and is determined on a case-by-case basis depending on operational requirements and DND staffing needs. Many positions offer flexibility in work arrangements, including compressed work weeks or flexible hours. Remote work options have expanded across the federal public service and are often available for policy advisory roles, though some in-person attendance may be required for meetings, collaboration, and stakeholder engagement. Telework arrangements are negotiated individually and depend on the specific duties of the position and management approval. DND is committed to supporting work-life balance and accommodating diverse scheduling needs where operationally feasible. Employees should discuss flexible work options during the hiring process or with their manager once employed.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
