As an Infrastructure Architect in Information Technology, you will design, plan, and oversee the implementation of complex IT infrastructure systems for the Department of National Defence. You will work at the strategic and technical levels to ensure that DND's IT infrastructure supports operational requirements, meets security standards, and aligns with government IT policies and direction.
Your responsibilities will include assessing current infrastructure, identifying gaps and inefficiencies, designing scalable and secure solutions, and providing technical guidance throughout implementation. You will collaborate with stakeholders across DND, other government departments, and external partners to understand requirements and deliver solutions that balance capability, cost, and risk. Your work will directly support DND's operational readiness and the delivery of defence and security services to Canada.
You will work in a dynamic, security-conscious environment where attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and strong communication skills are essential. You may work in DND headquarters locations, regional offices, or Defence establishments across Canada, with some roles offering remote work options.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver infrastructure operations services supporting GC digital operations, Develop, configure, and maintain IT systems and infrastructure, Troubleshoot technical issues and provide user support, Document technical solutions and maintain system records
Required Skills
Systems administration, Programming/scripting, Network and security, Cloud technologies, ITIL/ITSM practices, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
You will typically need a bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology, or a related engineering discipline. Some positions may accept equivalent professional experience and demonstrated technical competency.
Professional certifications are highly valued and often expected, such as: AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator or Architect, Certified Information Systems Architect (CISA), or vendor-neutral certifications like CompTIA Security+. You should have a strong foundation in network design, cloud infrastructure, security architecture, and enterprise systems.
Ongoing professional development is encouraged and supported. DND provides access to training programs, certification courses, and technical conferences. You will be expected to maintain current knowledge of emerging technologies, infrastructure best practices, and evolving security requirements. Many positions require or lead to obtaining a Top Secret security clearance, which involves background vetting.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways in the federal Public Service. Most commonly, DND posts competitions for Infrastructure Architect positions on the Government of Canada job board (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents and typically require you to demonstrate relevant education, certifications, and experience.
You may also enter through the Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC), which targets recent graduates from computer science and engineering programs. Some positions are filled through internal competitions, allowing current DND civilian employees or Canadian Armed Forces members to transition into this role. If you have IT experience in another federal department, you may be able to move laterally to DND through interdepartmental staffing processes.
The Public Service Commission (PSC) oversees the hiring process to ensure fairness and merit-based selection. Once hired, you will typically begin at the junior level and progress through experience and demonstrated competency.
Part-Time Options
Most Infrastructure Architect positions are full-time permanent roles, as the complexity of IT infrastructure work typically requires dedicated, continuous engagement. However, the federal Public Service does support flexible work arrangements where operational requirements permit.
Depending on your specific position and supervisor approval, you may be able to negotiate telework or remote work options for a portion of your week, particularly for planning, design, and analysis work. Some positions may offer compressed work weeks or flexible hours to support work-life balance, though infrastructure support activities may require standard business hours or on-call availability depending on your assignment.
Job sharing and part-time opportunities are less common for Infrastructure Architect roles due to the specialized nature and continuity required, but it is worth inquiring during the recruitment process. DND is committed to providing a respectful workplace and supporting employees' personal needs within operational constraints.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
