As a Landscape Architect with the Department of National Defence, you will design and plan outdoor spaces on military bases and defence installations across Canada. You will create functional, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing environments that support military operations while meeting environmental standards. Your work includes developing master plans, site designs, and detailed drawings for parade grounds, recreation areas, housing developments, and heritage sites on defence property.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include consulting with military stakeholders and other government departments to understand project requirements, conducting site assessments and environmental analysis, preparing design proposals and technical drawings using specialized software, managing budgets and project timelines, and ensuring compliance with federal regulations and accessibility standards. You will work collaboratively with engineers, architects, environmental specialists, and contractors throughout the design and construction phases.
You will work in a professional environment that values planning, sustainability, and precision. While much of your work is office-based, you will regularly visit sites across Canada to conduct assessments, inspect ongoing projects, and meet with teams. You will contribute to creating welcoming, functional spaces that enhance the quality of life for military personnel and their families.
Key Responsibilities
Perform architecture analysis, design, and review, Prepare technical specifications and engineering documents, Conduct inspections, assessments, and quality reviews, Ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards
Required Skills
Technical analysis, Design and drafting tools (CAD), Project management, Regulatory knowledge, Problem-solving, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To enter this career, you must have a professional degree in landscape architecture from a Canadian university program accredited by the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA), or equivalent education recognized by the federal Public Service. Most positions require completion of the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (LARE) and registration as a Professional Landscape Architect (PLA) with your provincial regulatory body.
Additional training and certifications valued in this role include proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, Civil 3D) and GIS mapping tools, knowledge of federal accessibility standards (AODA), familiarity with sustainable design practices and green infrastructure, and understanding of Indigenous consultation and land acknowledgment practices relevant to defence property. The Government of Canada provides professional development opportunities including training in federal contracting, project management, and specialized military facility planning. Many landscape architects pursue continuing education in emerging areas such as climate adaptation and resilient design.
Entry Plans
You can enter the DND civilian workforce as a Landscape Architect through several pathways. The primary method is through external recruitment competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's Job Bank and internal public service job boards. These competitions typically require a valid provincial professional designation and relevant experience.
If you are already working in the federal public service, you may apply through internal competitions or be considered for lateral movement from related roles in architecture, planning, or engineering. Some positions may be filled through designated pools of pre-screened candidates. Students and recent graduates should explore the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) and Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC) for entry-level opportunities and internships within DND and other government departments.
The Government of Canada also uses Priority Hiring lists for Indigenous candidates, persons with disabilities, and other designated groups. Specific entry requirements vary by competition, so review each job posting carefully for qualifications, language requirements (English or French or both), and security clearance eligibility.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for Landscape Architect positions, though availability varies by location and project demands. Many DND offices support flexible working hours to accommodate site visits and office-based design work. Remote work options have expanded since 2020 and typically allow landscape architects to perform design work, drawings, and consultations from home, though on-site presence is required for site assessments and stakeholder meetings.
Job sharing and compressed work weeks may be negotiated with your supervisor depending on operational needs. As a member of the federal Public Service, you are entitled to flexible work arrangements as outlined in the Treasury Board Directive on Flexible Work Arrangements, subject to management approval and business requirements. Discuss specific options during the recruitment process and with your manager once hired, as accommodation depends on project timelines and team coordination needs.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
