As an Information Architect with the Department of National Defence, you will design and organize complex information systems that support military operations, defence initiatives, and organizational decision-making. You'll work at the intersection of technology, business, and user needs to create information structures, data models, and digital frameworks that help employees and systems work more effectively. This is a non-managerial position where your primary focus is on developing solutions rather than supervising others.
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include analyzing organizational information needs, designing information taxonomies and metadata schemas, collaborating with IT teams and business stakeholders, and documenting architecture standards and best practices. You'll conduct user research, create wireframes and information flow diagrams, and provide recommendations on how information should be organized and accessed across DND systems. You may also evaluate emerging technologies and methodologies to keep DND's information architecture practices current and effective.
You'll work in a professional office environment, typically located in Ottawa or other major Canadian cities with DND facilities. The role involves collaboration with cross-functional teams, meetings with stakeholders at various organizational levels, and independent analytical work. You may occasionally travel to other DND locations or attend professional conferences and training events.
Key Responsibilities
Perform information and data architecture activities per GC IM policies, Manage information assets through their lifecycle, Ensure compliance with access to information and privacy requirements, Support information governance and standards
Required Skills
Records management, ATIP legislation, Information governance, Classification systems, Digital literacy, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To enter this career, you typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, information management, business analysis, library science, or a related field. Some positions may accept candidates with diploma-level education combined with relevant professional experience. Strong foundational knowledge in data management, database design, systems thinking, and organizational processes is important.
Certifications that support career development in this field include the Information Architecture Institute (IAI) certification, Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP), user experience (UX) design certifications, and enterprise architecture credentials such as TOGAF (The Open Group Architecture Framework). The Government of Canada encourages continuous professional development through in-house training programs, learning management systems, and external course sponsorship.
DND offers various professional development opportunities including specialized courses on government systems, data governance, and advanced information management practices. You'll have access to Government of Canada learning resources, conference attendance opportunities, and mentoring from experienced architects. Many employees pursue additional certifications while employed, with departmental support for relevant courses that enhance your ability to contribute to DND's mission.
Entry Plans
There are several pathways to become an Information Architect in the DND civilian workforce:
Public Service Commission (PSC) Competitions: The primary route is through open or internal PSC competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions assess candidates on education, experience, and demonstrated competencies through written tests, interviews, and technical evaluations.
Talent Pools: DND may establish talent pools for this classification, allowing qualified candidates to be hired more quickly when positions become available without running individual competitions each time.
Student and Early Career Programs: The Government of Canada offers programs like the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) and the Public Service Youth Internship Program (PSYIP) that can lead to permanent positions. Some participants transition from internships to full-time roles.
Lateral Moves: Current federal public servants in other departments or classifications may apply through internal competitions or be considered for lateral appointment if they meet the requirements.
Post-Secondary Recruitment: DND actively recruits recent graduates through campus recruitment initiatives and targeted outreach to universities and colleges offering relevant programs.
All candidates must pass security screening appropriate to the position and meet Treasury Board requirements for federal employment.
Part-Time Options
Information Architect positions are typically full-time permanent or term-certain roles; however, the Government of Canada is committed to flexible work arrangements where operational requirements allow.
Remote and Hybrid Work: Given the nature of information architecture work—which involves analysis, design, collaboration via video conferencing, and documentation—many positions offer partial or full remote work options. Arrangements are determined by individual managers based on operational needs and the specific tasks required. Some employees work from home several days per week while maintaining core days in the office for collaborative work.
Flexible Hours: Flexible work schedules are often available, allowing you to adjust start and end times within guidelines set by your manager, provided work coverage and deadlines are met.
Part-Time and Job-Sharing: While less common in specialized technical roles, part-time positions occasionally become available. Job-sharing arrangements may be negotiated with management depending on departmental needs.
Leave and Time-Off: Federal employees receive comprehensive leave entitlements including vacation leave, sick leave, family-related leave, and access to the Treasury Board Leave Policies. You'll also benefit from statutory holidays and paid leave for personal circumstances.
Actual flexible work options depend on the specific position, team requirements, and your manager's approval. It's recommended to discuss flexible work arrangements during the hiring process or once employed.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
