Infrastructure Designers in the Department of National Defence develop and design IT infrastructure solutions that support Defence operations across Canada and internationally. You will work with complex systems and networks to ensure that military and civilian personnel have reliable, secure, and efficient technology platforms. Your designs must meet strict security requirements, support operational effectiveness, and adapt to evolving threats and technologies.
In this role, you analyze organizational needs, evaluate technology options, and create infrastructure blueprints that guide implementation teams. You collaborate with stakeholders across multiple departments, security specialists, and external vendors to ensure solutions meet Defence standards. You document your designs thoroughly and provide technical guidance throughout implementation and deployment phases.
You will work in a structured IT environment with access to specialized tools and testing facilities. The pace varies based on operational priorities and project timelines. Much of your work involves technical analysis, design documentation, and meetings with cross-functional teams. You contribute to a mission-critical environment where infrastructure decisions directly impact Defence readiness and security.
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
Most Infrastructure Designer positions require a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, computer engineering, or a related field. Some positions accept equivalent work experience combined with relevant coursework or diplomas from accredited IT programs.
Key certifications valued in this role include: CompTIA Security+, Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator, AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), and ITIL Foundation. Many designers pursue advanced certifications such as CISSP or cloud-specific credentials as they progress.
The Government of Canada and DND offer professional development through the Treasury Board's Learning and Development initiatives. You may access training on emerging technologies, security frameworks, and project management methodologies. DND also supports obtaining and maintaining security clearances, which are essential for this role. Continuous learning is expected as infrastructure technologies evolve rapidly.
Entry Plans
Entry into this career typically occurs through open Public Service competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's Job Bank and DND recruitment pages. Competitions are merit-based and assess technical knowledge, design thinking, and communication skills through written exams, technical assessments, and interviews.
The Public Service may use talent pools or staffing lists to fill positions more quickly. Graduates from certain academic institutions may qualify for accelerated entry programs such as the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or the Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC), which can lead to permanent positions.
Lateral movement from other IT roles within the federal Public Service is common. If you work as a Systems Administrator, Network Technician, or Database Administrator, you may compete for Infrastructure Designer positions through internal competitions or deployments. Veterans and members of the Canadian Armed Forces may also access priority hiring mechanisms.
You should register on the Government of Canada Job Bank, monitor DND's recruitment portal regularly, and consider building a profile on the Public Service Commission's recruitment systems to receive notification of relevant competitions.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for Infrastructure Designer positions, though availability depends on operational needs and project demands. Many DND IT roles accommodate flexible schedules, compressed work weeks, or job sharing arrangements when coverage and security protocols permit.
Remote work options have expanded across the federal Public Service. Most Infrastructure Designers can perform design work, documentation, and analysis remotely. However, some responsibilities—such as facility assessments, equipment evaluation, or in-person security briefings—may require on-site presence at your assigned DND location.
Telework agreements are typically established with your manager and must align with security clearance requirements and Defence operational needs. COVID-19 demonstrated that much Infrastructure Designer work can be conducted effectively from home or alternate locations. Arrangements are negotiated individually and may vary based on your specific team, project phase, and assigned location. Discuss flexible work options during the recruitment process and with your manager upon appointment.
