Divers in the Department of National Defence perform specialized underwater work supporting naval operations, maritime infrastructure, and emergency response. As a Diver, you will conduct underwater inspections, maintenance, repairs, and salvage operations on naval vessels, harbour facilities, and equipment. Your work is essential to maintaining the operational readiness of Canada's maritime forces and ensuring the safety of personnel and assets. Divers work as part of a skilled team, often in challenging and remote environments, requiring strong technical expertise, physical fitness, and mental resilience. You may be deployed domestically or internationally in support of DND operations and Canadian Armed Forces missions. Your responsibilities include executing diving operations according to strict safety protocols, maintaining diving equipment, documenting underwater work, and collaborating with other trades and military personnel to accomplish objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Perform marine duties supporting federal transportation operations, Ensure compliance with transportation safety regulations, Monitor and report on operational performance, Coordinate logistics and scheduling
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To become a Diver with DND, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Professional diving certifications through recognized bodies such as the Association of Canadian Underwater Councils (ACUC) or equivalent are required or must be obtained. Successful candidates must be physically fit and able to pass a medical examination, including specific assessments for diving suitability. Once hired, you will complete DND-specific diving training courses that cover military diving procedures, equipment operation, underwater work techniques, and emergency response. Ongoing professional development includes recertification requirements, advanced diving specializations, and training in new technologies and safety practices. Some positions may require additional certifications in specific diving applications, such as saturation diving or commercial diving operations.
Entry Plans
To join the DND civilian workforce as a Diver, you can apply through federal Public Service job competitions posted on the Government of Canada's Job Bank and DND careers website. Entry typically occurs at the Employee level, with competitions open to Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Relevant work experience in commercial diving, military diving, or related underwater technical fields strengthens your application. If you are a Canadian Armed Forces member, you may be eligible for priority consideration or lateral transfer opportunities if transitioning to the civilian workforce. DND also considers applications from individuals with equivalent diving experience and certifications obtained outside the federal government. Competitions may include written tests, practical diving assessments, interviews, and reference checks to evaluate your technical skills and suitability for the role.
Part-Time Options
Part-time work in the Diver position is limited due to the specialized nature of diving operations and the requirement for full participation in team-based underwater missions and deployments. Most Diver positions are full-time to ensure operational readiness and compliance with diving safety regulations. However, some administrative or shore-based diving support roles may offer flexible scheduling options. Remote work is not applicable to this position, as divers must be physically present at work sites, vessels, and diving locations to perform their duties. If you have specific scheduling needs, you are encouraged to discuss flexibility options with the hiring manager during the recruitment process, though operational requirements typically necessitate standard full-time employment.
