As a Health Promotion Program Officer with the Department of National Defence, you will develop, implement, and evaluate health promotion initiatives that support the wellbeing of Canadian Armed Forces members and Defence civilians. Your work will focus on designing evidence-based programs that address key health priorities such as mental health, physical fitness, nutrition, and disease prevention. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including occupational health professionals, medical officers, and command staff to ensure programs meet organizational objectives and individual health needs.
In this role, you will conduct health needs assessments, analyze health data and trends, develop program strategies, and create educational materials and resources. You will also provide consultation to various departments and units, monitor program outcomes, and ensure alignment with federal health promotion standards and DND policies. Your work environment will include both office-based activities and field visits to military installations across Canada, where you will engage directly with personnel to promote, implement, and gather feedback on health initiatives.
This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the health and resilience of Canada's defence community. You will work within a dynamic, mission-focused organization while contributing to evidence-based health promotion at a national scale.
Key Responsibilities
Provide general health care and social services services to clients and patients, Assess needs and develop treatment or service plans, Maintain accurate clinical and case records, Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver care
Required Skills
Clinical skills, Patient/client assessment, Empathy and communication, Record-keeping, Interdisciplinary collaboration, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
A minimum of a bachelor's degree in public health, health promotion, health sciences, nursing, exercise physiology, psychology, or a related discipline is typically required. Some positions may accept related post-secondary diplomas combined with relevant professional experience. Knowledge of health promotion principles, program planning and evaluation, epidemiology, and health behaviour change is essential.
Professional certifications such as Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES), Royal Canadian Society for the Eradication of Poverty (RCSEP) designations, or wellness coaching credentials are valued. The Department of National Defence and the Public Service provide ongoing professional development opportunities through the Treasury Board Learning Management System, specialized training in military health topics, and access to conferences and workshops related to public health and health promotion.
You will also receive training specific to DND operations, including an introduction to Defence culture, security protocols, and the Canadian Armed Forces health and wellness frameworks. Bilingualism (English and French) is an asset and may be required depending on the position and level.
Entry Plans
Entry into this career with the Government of Canada typically occurs through public Service staffing competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Job Board (jobs.gc.ca). The Public Service Commission posts positions at various classification levels (AS-02, AS-03, AS-04) depending on qualifications and experience.
You may also enter through bridging programs if you are a recent graduate, including the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or the Postgraduate Fellowship Program, which can lead to permanent positions. Lateral transfers are available for employees already within the federal Public Service who possess the required competencies and education.
The Department of National Defence also participates in targeted recruitment campaigns for health professionals and may maintain pools of qualified candidates for quick staffing when positions become available. It is recommended to create a profile on the Government of Canada Job Board, monitor DND-specific postings, and consider connecting with Defence recruitment offices to learn about upcoming opportunities.
Part-Time Options
Health Promotion Program Officer positions with the Department of National Defence are typically offered on a full-time, permanent basis. However, part-time and job-shared arrangements may be available depending on operational needs and individual circumstances, subject to management approval and program requirements.
Flexible work arrangements, including flexible hours and telework options, are increasingly available within the Public Service. Many program planning, analysis, and consultation activities can be conducted remotely, though field visits to military installations and in-person stakeholder engagement will require periodic travel across Canada. Remote work eligibility depends on the specific duties of the position and may be negotiated with your manager as part of the Treasury Board Directive on Telework.
Employees are encouraged to discuss flexible work options during the hiring process or with their manager once hired. The Department of National Defence is committed to supporting work-life balance and accommodating diverse workforce needs within operational constraints.
