As an Intergovernmental Affairs Officer, you will serve as a bridge between the Department of National Defence and other levels of government, managing relationships and coordinating initiatives that support Canada's defence priorities. You will develop and maintain collaborative partnerships with federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal governments, identifying areas of mutual interest and working toward shared objectives in defence, security, and emergency management.
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include analyzing intergovernmental issues, preparing briefing materials and policy recommendations, coordinating meetings and consultations with government partners, and tracking agreements and commitments between organizations. You will serve as a subject-matter expert on how DND's initiatives and decisions affect other jurisdictions, and how other governments' priorities impact Defence.
You will work in a dynamic, collaborative environment within DND's Intergovernmental Affairs division or similar policy units. This role offers meaningful opportunities to influence policy at multiple government levels and contribute to Canada's security and defence objectives through effective partnership building.
Key Responsibilities
Perform intergovernmental affairs duties within the relationship management function, Prepare reports and documentation as required, Collaborate with team members and stakeholders, Maintain records and ensure compliance with relevant policies
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
Typical entry into this career requires a bachelor's degree in public administration, political science, public policy, international relations, law, or a related discipline. Some positions may accept equivalent work experience in government, policy analysis, or stakeholder engagement.
Professional development opportunities include training in federal-provincial relations, policy analysis, negotiation and stakeholder management, and government processes. Many officers pursue certifications through the Institute of Public Administration of Canada (IPAC) or complete specialized courses in intergovernmental coordination, emergency management, or defence policy. Continuous learning is encouraged through workshops, conferences, and formal education programs to stay current with evolving government structures and policy priorities.
Entry Plans
Entry into this career typically occurs through federal Public Service competitions. The Public Service Commission regularly posts positions for Intergovernmental Affairs Officers at the EC (Economics and Social Science Services) or PM (Program Administration) classification levels, depending on the specific role and duties.
You may enter through several pathways: direct competition if you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, internal Government of Canada competitions if you are already a federal employee, or student recruitment programs such as the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or the Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC) if you are currently studying. Lateral moves from other government departments are also common, particularly from positions in policy analysis, program management, or other intergovernmental roles. Some positions may be filled through priority hiring initiatives or from established staffing pools.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for this role, though availability depends on operational needs and the specific position. Many Intergovernmental Affairs Officer positions offer flexible hours to accommodate meeting schedules with government partners across different time zones and jurisdictions.
Remote and hybrid work options have become increasingly common within the federal Public Service, and DND supports flexible work arrangements where feasible. This allows you to balance professional responsibilities with personal needs. Specific arrangements are negotiated with your manager and may vary based on the nature of your duties, whether you are involved in regular in-person consultations, and departmental requirements. Part-time career development pathways are available for those seeking to balance work with other commitments.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
