An Evaluation Assistant supports the evaluation function within the Department of National Defence by assisting with the planning, conduct, and reporting of program and policy evaluations. You will work as part of evaluation teams to collect and organize data, conduct preliminary analysis, and help prepare evaluation reports and recommendations. This role is essential to ensuring that DND programs and initiatives are effective, efficient, and aligned with government priorities.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include gathering evaluation data through surveys and interviews, organizing and coding information for analysis, conducting literature reviews, preparing evaluation documentation, and supporting senior evaluators in all phases of evaluation projects. You may also assist with stakeholder engagement, quality assurance of evaluation materials, and administrative tasks related to evaluation planning and delivery.
Evaluation Assistants typically work in office environments at DND headquarters or regional offices, collaborating with evaluation professionals, program managers, and subject matter experts. You will be expected to work on multiple evaluation projects simultaneously, manage competing deadlines, and communicate clearly with both technical and non-technical audiences.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct evaluation activities per professional standards, Collect and analyze evidence to support findings, Prepare reports and recommendations for management, Monitor implementation of action plans
Required Skills
Analytical skills, Risk assessment, Report writing, Professional skepticism, Data analysis, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify for an Evaluation Assistant position, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring post-secondary education in business, public administration, social sciences, or a related field. Strong written and verbal communication skills, proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, and basic data organization abilities are essential.
Once hired, you will receive on-the-job training in DND evaluation processes, Treasury Board evaluation standards, and departmental systems and policies. The Government of Canada offers professional development opportunities including courses in evaluation methodologies, data analysis, project management, and official language training. Many Evaluation Assistants pursue the Certified Government Evaluator (CGE) designation through the Canadian Evaluation Society, which supports career advancement and professional credibility. You may also access training in specialized tools such as statistical software or qualitative data analysis platforms as needed for specific projects.
Entry Plans
The primary route to becoming an Evaluation Assistant in the Public Service is through open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions are typically open to Canadian citizens and may include candidates from inside and outside the federal government. Some positions may be filled through targeted recruitment from post-secondary institutions or through the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) for students currently enrolled in eligible programs.
Lateral moves into this role are common for employees already working in the federal Public Service in related clerical, administrative, or analytical positions. The DND also participates in internal mobility programs and may post positions exclusively for current federal employees. During your application, you will need to demonstrate competencies in data management, attention to detail, communication, and the ability to work collaboratively. A security clearance may be required depending on the evaluation projects you would support.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are generally available for Evaluation Assistant positions, depending on operational needs and the specific evaluation project timelines. Many DND offices support compressed work weeks, flexible hours, and telework options to accommodate employee needs while maintaining evaluation project delivery.
Remote work is increasingly common for this role, particularly for administrative and data organization tasks that do not require in-person collaboration. However, some project phases—such as conducting interviews, attending stakeholder meetings, or accessing secure evaluation systems—may require occasional office presence. The extent of remote work availability will depend on your specific work location, the sensitivity of evaluation projects, and current departmental policies. We encourage you to discuss flexible work options during the recruitment process and with your manager once hired.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
