As a Contract Officer with the Department of National Defence, you play a critical role in managing the procurement process that supplies Canada's military and defence operations. You are responsible for developing, negotiating, and administering contracts that ensure DND obtains the goods, services, and construction required to support its mandate. This involves working with suppliers, internal stakeholders, and other government departments to achieve value for money while meeting defence and security requirements.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include preparing solicitation documents, evaluating bids and proposals, negotiating contract terms, and monitoring contractor performance. You apply your knowledge of the Procurement Policy Framework, Treasury Board directives, and DND-specific guidelines to ensure all transactions comply with federal regulations and Treasury Board standards. You may specialize in areas such as defence equipment procurement, facility services, information technology solutions, or operational supplies.
You work in a dynamic environment that combines analytical work with stakeholder management. Your office is typically located at a DND headquarters or regional procurement centre, though some positions may be based at military establishments across Canada. You collaborate regularly with military personnel, engineering teams, finance specialists, and external vendors. The work requires attention to detail, sound judgment, and the ability to manage competing priorities in a security-conscious environment.
Key Responsibilities
Perform contract management functions per GC procurement policies, Process requisitions, contracts, and procurement documents, Manage vendor relationships and monitor contract performance, Maintain asset and inventory records
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To become a Contract Officer at DND, you typically need a post-secondary diploma or bachelor's degree in business administration, supply chain management, commerce, public administration, or a related field. Some positions may accept relevant work experience in procurement or contract administration as an alternative or complement to formal education.
Professional certifications enhance your credentials and career progression. The Certified Professional Procurement Officer (CPPO) designation through Supply Chain Institute Canada is widely recognized in the federal public service. Many Contract Officers pursue the Certified Professional Contracting Officer (CPCO) credential or equivalent qualifications offered through professional associations. DND provides on-the-job training in government procurement policies, security protocols, and defence-specific requirements. You will receive instruction in the Treasury Board Contracting Policy, the Trade Agreements Implementation Act, and DND procurement guidelines. The department encourages participation in professional development workshops, webinars, and conferences related to contract management and supply chain best practices. Continuous learning is supported to keep your knowledge current with evolving procurement regulations and industry standards.
Entry Plans
Entry to the Contract Officer position in the federal Public Service typically occurs through advertised competitions on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca). DND periodically opens competitions for various levels of contract officers, from entry-level positions to experienced roles. Competitions may be open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or current public service employees, depending on the posting.
You may also enter this career through lateral movement if you are already employed in the federal Public Service in a related role such as procurement assistant, administrative officer, or supply technician. DND sometimes maintains inventory lists (pools) of qualified candidates from recent competitions to fill vacancies more quickly. Some individuals transition into Contract Officer roles from military service, bringing operational knowledge and security clearance.
Student and recent graduate programs, such as the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC), provide pathways to explore procurement careers while still in school or immediately after graduation. Successful completion of these programs can lead to permanent placement opportunities.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for Contract Officer positions in many DND locations, though availability depends on operational requirements and specific work unit needs. Many contracts and procurement activities operate during standard business hours, which allows some positions to offer flexible scheduling or compressed work weeks.
Remote work options have expanded across the federal public service, including DND. Depending on your work assignment and security requirements, you may have the opportunity to work from home for portions of your week. However, some Contract Officer duties—such as site inspections, stakeholder meetings, and classified discussions—may require in-person presence at DND facilities. The specific arrangement you receive will depend on your position, your manager's approval, and DND's operational needs. We recommend discussing flexible work possibilities during your interview process and once hired, as options vary by location and role.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
