As a Learning and Development Policy Advisor with the Department of National Defence, you will develop, implement, and evaluate learning and development policies and strategies that support the professional growth of DND's civilian workforce. You will work collaboratively with human resources teams, senior management, and stakeholders across the department to design evidence-based policies that align with Government of Canada priorities and organizational objectives. Your work directly impacts how thousands of civilian employees build their skills, advance their careers, and contribute effectively to Canada's defence mission.
In this role, you will analyze learning trends, identify capability gaps, and recommend policy improvements to enhance workforce development. You will prepare briefing documents, conduct consultations with various departments and agencies, and ensure policies comply with Treasury Board standards and collective agreements. Your responsibilities include researching best practices, evaluating program effectiveness, and providing expert advice to senior leaders on learning and development initiatives. You will operate in a dynamic environment where your insights help shape how the organization invests in its people.
You will work in an office setting, primarily in the National Capital Region, though remote work arrangements may be available. This position requires strong analytical skills, excellent written and verbal communication, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a collaborative, diverse workplace. You will interact regularly with HR professionals, policy makers, and employee groups at all levels of the organization.
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
Minimum qualifications typically include a bachelor's degree in human resources management, organizational development, psychology, business administration, or a related field. Some positions may accept equivalent work experience in learning and development, human resources, or policy development.
Desirable qualifications include a master's degree in human resources management, organizational development, or business administration. Professional certifications such as the Canadian HR Professional (CHRP) designation, Certified Learning and Development Professional (CLDP), or Project Management Professional (PMP) are valued. Knowledge of Government of Canada policies, Treasury Board directives, and federal human resources frameworks is an asset.
Professional development opportunities within the Public Service include access to Government of Canada training programs, learning management systems, and tuition support for relevant graduate studies. DND supports participation in professional associations such as the Canadian Society for Training and Development (CSTD) and Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA). You will have opportunities to develop expertise in policy analysis, organizational change management, and federal human resources strategy.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways within the federal Public Service. The primary route is through open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's Job Bank and the Public Service Commission website. These competitions are open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and others eligible to work in Canada.
If you are already working in the federal Public Service, you may apply for internal competitions or use lateral appointment procedures to move into this role from related positions in human resources, learning and development, or policy analysis. Many employees transition into policy advisor roles after gaining experience in program delivery, training coordination, or HR operations.
The Public Service also offers student programs and developmental opportunities for recent graduates. The Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) and Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC) can provide entry points for students and recent graduates to gain experience in federal HR and learning and development work. Once hired in an entry-level position, you can progress toward the Learning and Development Policy Advisor role through promotions and internal competitions.
Part-Time Options
Part-time employment options for Learning and Development Policy Advisors are available but less common than full-time positions. Availability depends on departmental needs and specific competitions. Some policy advisory work can be adapted to part-time schedules, though many policy projects require sustained engagement and full-time commitment.
Flexible work arrangements, including flexible hours and telework, are increasingly available within DND and the federal Public Service. Many Learning and Development Policy Advisors have access to remote work options for tasks such as policy research, report writing, and virtual consultations. Hybrid schedules combining office and remote work are common, though some in-person time is typically required for meetings and collaboration.
Work-life balance initiatives within the Public Service include access to employee assistance programs, wellness benefits, and official leave provisions. DND supports various flexible work arrangements under Treasury Board policies, subject to operational requirements and managerial approval. Specific options should be discussed during the hiring process and with your manager once employed.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
