Foundry Workers are skilled trades professionals who operate machinery and equipment to cast metal components used in defence and military applications. Working in foundry environments, they are responsible for preparing moulds, operating furnaces, pouring molten metal, and finishing cast parts to meet strict quality and safety standards. This role is essential to the Department of National Defence's supply chain, contributing directly to the production of equipment and components that support Canadian Armed Forces operations.
In this position, you will work as part of a production team in a specialized manufacturing facility. Your daily responsibilities include setting up and operating foundry equipment, monitoring temperature and material specifications, removing finished castings from moulds, cleaning and finishing metal parts, and conducting quality inspections. You will follow detailed technical drawings and standard operating procedures while maintaining a safe and clean work environment.
Foundry Workers operate in a dynamic industrial setting that requires attention to detail, physical capability, and strong safety practices. The work can involve standing for extended periods, lifting heavy materials, and working near high-temperature equipment. You will be part of a team environment where communication, reliability, and adherence to established protocols are highly valued.
Key Responsibilities
Perform machining and shaping tasks maintaining government facilities and assets, Operate tools, equipment, and machinery safely, Follow technical specifications and safety procedures, Maintain records of work performed and materials used
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
Typically, candidates should have completed secondary school or possess equivalent qualifications. Many successful Foundry Workers have completed formal apprenticeship programs in foundry operations or metal casting, which combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction over 3 to 4 years. Some provinces offer recognized certification programs in foundry work through technical colleges or vocational institutions.
Once hired with the Government of Canada, you will receive comprehensive on-the-job training specific to DND foundry operations, equipment, and safety protocols. This training covers equipment operation, safety procedures, quality control standards, and department-specific processes. Depending on the role and facility, you may pursue additional certifications such as material handling, confined space entry, or specialized equipment operation certificates. Ongoing professional development includes safety refresher courses, equipment-specific training, and opportunities to develop supervisory or specialized technical skills as your career progresses.
Entry Plans
Entry to the Foundry Worker position in the DND Civilian Workforce typically occurs through advertised Government of Canada staffing competitions. These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents and are posted on the Government of Canada Job Bank and DND's internal career portal. Candidates are evaluated based on education, relevant work experience, technical aptitude, and demonstrated ability to work safely in an industrial environment.
The Public Service may also use merit-based pools to fill multiple positions across facilities or regions, reducing the time between application and job offer. If you are transitioning from the Canadian Armed Forces, you may be eligible for priority consideration through veterans' hiring initiatives. Some positions may be filled through lateral moves from other Government of Canada departments or agencies, particularly if you have directly relevant foundry or manufacturing experience. Student and apprenticeship programs may also be available, offering pathways to permanent employment upon successful completion of training and probationary periods.
Part-Time Options
Foundry Worker positions in the DND Civilian Workforce are typically full-time, permanent roles requiring standard industrial shift schedules. However, depending on facility operations and production demands, some positions may offer shift work arrangements, including evening or early morning start times.
Part-time employment in foundry operations is generally limited due to the nature of industrial production schedules and the requirement for consistent, trained personnel to maintain continuous operations. Remote work is not applicable to this role, as it requires physical presence in the foundry facility to operate equipment and perform hands-on manufacturing tasks. Flexible work arrangements such as compressed work weeks or modified schedules may be considered on a case-by-case basis, subject to operational requirements and management approval. For specific information about shift patterns and scheduling flexibility at your potential workplace, it is recommended to inquire during the recruitment process or speak with the hiring manager.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
