Learning and Development Advisors are strategic human resources professionals who design, develop, and deliver training and learning initiatives within Department of National Defence civilian workplaces. They work closely with managers, subject matter experts, and employees to identify learning needs, create customized training solutions, and measure the effectiveness of programs. These professionals play a crucial role in building organizational capacity, improving employee performance, and supporting the department's operational readiness through targeted learning interventions.
As a Learning and Development Advisor, you will be responsible for conducting needs assessments, designing instructional content, selecting delivery methods (classroom, online, blended), facilitating training sessions, and evaluating learning outcomes. You'll work with diverse audiences across various organizational levels and technical disciplines, translating complex information into engaging learning experiences. Your work directly impacts employee competency development, succession planning, and the department's ability to meet its mandates effectively.
You will work in a dynamic, collaborative environment within DND headquarters, regional offices, or operational units. This role requires strong communication skills, creativity, project management ability, and a genuine commitment to helping others develop professionally. You may work with virtual teams, manage multiple concurrent projects, and interact regularly with senior leadership and frontline staff.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver learning and development 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 a Learning and Development Advisor position, you typically need a bachelor's degree in human resources, adult education, instructional design, organizational development, psychology, or a related field. Some positions may accept equivalent work experience combined with relevant training or certifications.
Valuable certifications and credentials include the Certified Learning and Development Professional (CLDP) through the Canadian Society for Training and Development (CSTD), Instructional Design certifications, or Project Management Professional (PMP) credentials. Proficiency with learning management systems (LMS), instructional design tools, and virtual facilitation platforms is increasingly important.
Once hired, you'll have access to Government of Canada professional development programs, including advanced training in instructional design, facilitation skills, and emerging learning technologies. DND also supports employees pursuing ongoing certifications and credentials relevant to human resources and organizational development. Mentorship opportunities and cross-functional project assignments will help you develop expertise in defence-specific training challenges and the unique needs of the military civilian workforce.
Entry Plans
Learning and Development Advisors typically enter the federal Public Service through competitive staffing processes advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website. These competitions may be open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or current public service employees, depending on the specific posting.
You may enter this career through several pathways: direct competitions for the Learning and Development Advisor level, participation in Public Service recruitment campaigns targeting recent graduates or career changers, lateral moves from other human resources positions within DND or other federal departments, or through the Canadian Armed Forces Member Employment Transition Program if you're a released CAF member with relevant experience.
Current federal government employees may also access internal development opportunities, appointment processes, or training programs designed to build learning and development capacity. The Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign and targeted outreach to professionals in education, training, or organizational development sectors provide additional entry opportunities. Some positions may require security clearance, which DND will facilitate during the hiring process.
Part-Time Options
Learning and Development Advisor positions in DND typically offer flexible work arrangements. Many roles support hybrid or remote work options, particularly for instructional design, content development, and administrative tasks. Full-time positions are standard, though part-time and job-shared arrangements may be available depending on operational needs and business requirements.
The nature of this work provides some flexibility in scheduling, as much of the role involves independent project work, virtual collaboration, and asynchronous learning development. However, facilitation and training delivery may require presence at specific times to accommodate participant schedules. DND supports work-life balance through flexible hours, telework agreements, and compressed work weeks where operationally feasible.
Leave benefits include vacation leave, sick leave, family-related leave, and other statutory holidays consistent with federal Public Service standards. Employees can discuss accommodation and flexible work arrangements with their managers during the hiring process and throughout their employment. The department recognizes that learning and development professionals often manage competing priorities and supports scheduling practices that enable both effective service delivery and employee well-being.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
