As an Intergovernmental Affairs Policy Analyst, you will develop and analyze policies that shape how the Department of National Defence collaborates with federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal governments. You will serve as a bridge between DND and other levels of government, ensuring alignment on defence priorities, emergency management, and shared objectives. Your work directly impacts how defence resources are coordinated across Canada and how DND engages with partners outside the federal government.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include researching intergovernmental issues, preparing briefing documents and policy recommendations, coordinating consultations with government partners, and monitoring developments in federal-provincial-territorial relations. You will analyze how proposed policies affect relationships with other governments, identify potential challenges, and develop strategies to address them. You may also support high-level meetings, draft correspondence, and help coordinate DND's participation in intergovernmental forums and initiatives.
You will work within DND's Intergovernmental Affairs team in an office environment, primarily at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa. This role requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively with colleagues from diverse government organizations. You will collaborate with other DND branches, provincial and territorial counterparts, and federal partners to advance shared defence and security objectives.
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
To succeed in this role, you will typically need a bachelor's degree from a recognized university. Preferred fields of study include political science, public administration, public policy, international relations, business administration, or law. Some positions may consider candidates with equivalent work experience in government, policy analysis, or intergovernmental relations.
Once hired, you will receive on-the-job training covering DND operations, government structure, policies specific to intergovernmental affairs, and the tools and systems used in federal government work. Many analysts also pursue professional development through the Canadian Association of Intergovernmental Affairs, Government of Canada learning platforms, and specialized training in policy analysis, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement. A security clearance (Secret level) is required for this position.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways in the federal Public Service. The most direct route is through a public competition for the Intergovernmental Affairs Policy Analyst position, usually advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website. Competition eligibility requires Canadian citizenship, residency in Canada, and valid language proficiency in English or French (bilingualism is often preferred).
If you are already working in the federal public service, you may be able to move into this role through lateral transfer or promotion, depending on your classification level and experience. Students and recent graduates may enter through student employment programs, which offer term positions and a pathway to permanent roles. The Public Service Commission also manages recruitment pools from which DND can quickly staff positions when vacancies arise.
Your application will typically require a resume, cover letter, and may include a written assessment or interview focusing on policy analysis, communication, research, and interpersonal skills. Previous experience in government, policy development, or relationship management strengthens your candidacy.
Part-Time Options
Part-time work in this role is available, though positions are typically full-time. Flexible work arrangements, including telework and adjusted schedules, are increasingly common and are determined on a case-by-case basis in consultation with your manager and team. Remote work has expanded across the federal government, and many analytical tasks can be performed outside the office, though some in-person collaboration may be required for meetings and coordination with internal and external partners.
As a federal employee, you will also have access to leave provisions including vacation, sick leave, family-related leave, and unpaid leave options. The federal Public Service offers a strong work-life balance framework, and DND is committed to supporting employee flexibility where operationally feasible. Discuss specific arrangements with your hiring manager, as they vary depending on team needs and the nature of ongoing projects.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
