As a Laundry Attendant with the Department of National Defence, you will provide essential laundry and dry cleaning services that support military operations and base facilities across Canada. You will operate industrial laundry equipment, manage large volumes of uniforms, linens, and specialized military textiles, and ensure all items meet strict cleanliness and serviceability standards. Your work is critical to maintaining the readiness and professional appearance of our personnel and facilities.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include sorting, washing, drying, pressing, and folding various fabrics and garments using commercial-grade equipment. You will handle hazardous materials safely, maintain equipment in good working order, manage inventory, and follow detailed quality control procedures. You may also be responsible for stain removal, minor repairs, and ensuring proper storage of cleaned items.
You will work in a fast-paced, team-oriented laundry facility environment, often on shift schedules to ensure continuous service delivery. The role requires attention to detail, physical stamina, and a commitment to meeting strict military standards. You will be part of a dedicated support team that takes pride in delivering quality services to Canadian Armed Forces members and Defence Team employees.
Key Responsibilities
Perform cleaning services duties within the commerce, retail services and insurance function, Prepare reports and documentation as required, Collaborate with team members and stakeholders, Maintain records and ensure compliance with relevant policies
Required Skills
Client service, Business acumen, Negotiation, Process management, Communication, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required for entry into this position. While formal post-secondary education is not usually necessary, many candidates have completed vocational training or apprenticeships in laundry services, dry cleaning, or textile care.
On the job, you will receive comprehensive training on Department of National Defence laundry procedures, industrial equipment operation, safety protocols, and quality standards. Training covers the proper handling of military uniforms and specialized fabrics, chemical safety, equipment maintenance, and workplace hazard awareness.
Ongoing professional development opportunities may include certifications in occupational health and safety, equipment-specific training as new machinery is introduced, and advancement pathways to supervisory roles such as Laundry Supervisor or Shift Lead. The Department supports continuous learning and skills development throughout your career.
Entry Plans
Entry into the Laundry Attendant position with the Department of National Defence typically occurs through Public Service staffing competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Job Board. These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
You may enter through several pathways: direct competitions for external candidates, internal competitions for current Public Service employees, or deployments from staffing pools. Preference may be given to veterans and members of designated employment equity groups, in accordance with Public Service staffing policies.
Some positions may be filled through student employment programs for those gaining their first federal public service experience. Lateral moves from other cleaning services roles within DND or other federal departments are also possible. We encourage you to create a profile on the Government of Canada Job Board and enable notifications for Laundry Attendant positions at Defence locations near you.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and casual work opportunities are available for Laundry Attendant positions at various Defence facilities across Canada. Many bases operate laundry services on extended shift schedules, creating flexibility for individuals seeking part-time employment.
Remote work is not typical for this role, as the position requires your physical presence in the laundry facility to operate equipment and handle materials. However, scheduling flexibility may be available depending on your local Defence facility's operational needs. Shift work, including evening and weekend schedules, is common to ensure laundry services operate continuously throughout the week.
If you are interested in part-time or flexible scheduling options, discuss your availability and preferences during the recruitment process. Work-life balance initiatives and flexible hours are considered where operationally feasible to support our employees' needs.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
