As an Inspector - Masonry with the Department of National Defence, you will play a critical role in ensuring the quality, safety, and compliance of masonry construction and renovation work across our Defence infrastructure. You will conduct inspections of masonry materials, workmanship, and installations on military facilities, including barracks, training centres, administrative buildings, and specialized structures. Your work ensures that all projects meet established construction standards, building codes, and Defence specifications.
Your daily responsibilities will include performing on-site inspections at various stages of masonry work, testing materials such as brick, stone, and mortar, documenting findings through detailed reports, and communicating deficiencies to contractors and project managers. You will review construction drawings and specifications, verify that work meets contract requirements, and recommend corrective actions when needed. You may also provide technical advice to project teams and coordinate with other trades to ensure overall project quality and timely completion.
You will work in a dynamic environment that combines office-based administrative work with frequent on-site visits to Defence properties. This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to maintaining safe, functional facilities that support Canadian Armed Forces operations and personnel across the country.
Key Responsibilities
Perform masonry 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
To qualify for this position, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, combined with relevant trade experience in masonry. Many successful candidates have completed a formal masonry apprenticeship or equivalent on-the-job training program recognized by provincial trades authorities. Some positions may require or prefer a provincial masonry certificate or Red Seal Interprovincial certification, which demonstrates your expertise meets national standards.
Professional development opportunities within the federal Public Service include advanced inspection techniques, building code updates, specialized materials training, and project management fundamentals. The Department supports ongoing learning through courses offered by construction industry associations, building code authorities, and internal Defence training programs. As you progress in your career, you may pursue additional certifications in areas such as heritage masonry restoration, specialized stone work, or construction management.
Entry Plans
There are several pathways to join the DND civilian workforce as an Inspector - Masonry. The primary route is through open Government of Canada job competitions, advertised on the Public Service Commission (PSC) website and the DND careers portal. These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents and evaluate candidates based on education, experience, and demonstrated competencies.
If you are already a federal Public Service employee, you may apply for positions as an internal candidate, which can streamline the process. The Department also accepts applications through lateral moves from other government departments and agencies where you have acquired relevant inspection experience. Some regions may maintain recruitment pools of qualified tradespeople to fill vacancies quickly. Student programs and co-op placements may also be available for those pursuing masonry credentials, offering pathways to permanent employment. We recommend checking the DND careers website regularly and registering for job alert notifications to stay informed about upcoming opportunities in your region.
Part-Time Options
Masonry inspection roles are typically full-time, permanent positions requiring regular on-site presence at Defence facilities. However, the federal Public Service does offer flexible work arrangements that may be negotiated with your manager based on operational requirements and business needs. Some administrative components of the role, such as report writing and documentation, may be performed with flexibility in scheduling, though most inspection work requires standard business hours and on-site availability.
Remote work is limited for this role due to the requirement to conduct physical inspections at construction sites and Defence properties. However, after-hours flexibility or compressed work weeks may be possible depending on project schedules and facility needs. Part-time or casual employment options are occasionally available, particularly during peak construction or renovation seasons. We encourage you to discuss flexible work possibilities during the recruitment process and with your manager once hired, as accommodations can often be arranged within operational constraints. All federal employees also benefit from standard Public Service leave entitlements, including vacation, sick leave, and family-related leave.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
