Labour Relations Coordinators in the Department of National Defence support the effective management of labour relations across the organization. You will coordinate and assist with labour relations activities, including grievance management, collective agreement administration, and employee relations issues. This role bridges communication between management, employees, and union representatives to maintain a positive workplace environment and ensure compliance with collective agreements and labour legislation.
In this position, you will handle administrative and coordination tasks related to labour relations matters. Your responsibilities include preparing documentation for labour relations meetings, tracking grievances and complaints, maintaining labour relations records, assisting with the interpretation of collective agreements, and supporting the resolution of workplace disputes. You will also help develop labour relations communications and may assist with employee relations programs.
You will work within a dedicated labour relations team or human resources department at a DND location, reporting to a Labour Relations Officer or HR Manager. The work environment is office-based, involving collaboration with multiple stakeholders across the organization. You will interact regularly with union representatives, managers, and employees, requiring strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver labour relations services to managers and employees, Advise on HR policies, procedures, and best practices, Process HR transactions and maintain accurate records, Support organizational HR initiatives and programs
Required Skills
HR policy interpretation, Interpersonal skills, Staffing and classification, Conflict resolution, Labour relations knowledge, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
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, with some employers preferring additional education in human resources, business administration, or a related field. Many candidates hold a college diploma or university degree in Human Resources Management, Labour Relations, or Business Studies.
Professional certifications that strengthen your candidacy include the Canadian Industrial Relations Association (CIRA) membership, the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) credentials, or the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) designation. Within the Public Service, you can pursue the Certificate in Labour Relations offered through various professional development providers.
Ongoing professional development opportunities include training in collective agreement interpretation, grievance management, conflict resolution, employment standards legislation, and labour relations best practices. The Government of Canada offers access to the Public Service Learning Portal with courses in HR fundamentals, labour law, and communication skills. Many employees pursue advanced certifications such as the Certified Employee Relations Specialist (CERS) or the Certified Labour Relations Professional (CLRP).
Entry Plans
Entry into this career typically occurs through federal Public Service competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's Job Bank and internal DND recruitment portals. Positions are often posted at the CR-03 or CR-04 classification levels, depending on experience and education.
You may enter as a new graduate through targeted recruitment campaigns or student employment programs such as the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP). These positions provide valuable experience and can lead to permanent employment opportunities.
Lateral transfers are common for Public Service employees in related HR roles who wish to specialize in labour relations. If you are already employed in the federal Public Service in a CR group position, you can apply for internal competitions or take advantage of staffing processes that prioritize current employees.
The Public Service Commission (PSC) manages most recruitment processes. Successful candidates typically demonstrate knowledge of labour relations principles, familiarity with collective agreement administration, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work impartially with all parties involved in labour relations matters.
Part-Time Options
Labour Relations Coordinator positions in DND typically offer flexible work arrangements. Many roles are available on a full-time permanent basis, though part-time and casual opportunities may exist depending on operational needs and funding.
Remote and hybrid work options have become increasingly available within federal HR departments. While some in-person presence may be required for meetings with union representatives, management, and employees, many coordinative and administrative tasks can be performed remotely. The specific arrangements depend on your DND location and management discretion.
Flex-time arrangements are often negotiated within the terms of your employment contract, allowing you to adjust start and end times while maintaining full-time hours. Job sharing may be available in some locations. To confirm the flexibility options for a specific position, review the job posting details or contact the hiring manager during the recruitment process. Employees represented by unions typically have additional protections regarding work arrangements outlined in their collective agreement.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
