As a Librarian in the Department of National Defence, you will manage and organize information resources that support military operations, research, and administrative functions across the organization. You will develop and maintain classification systems, cataloguing standards, and digital repositories to ensure that critical information is accessible to defence personnel and decision-makers when they need it. Your work directly supports the operational effectiveness and institutional knowledge of Canada's defence community.
Your daily responsibilities include acquiring and evaluating information materials, managing library collections and databases, providing research and reference services, and ensuring compliance with government information management policies and security protocols. You will work with classified and unclassified materials, applying specialized knowledge of information organization, retrieval systems, and emerging technologies to keep DND's information resources current and secure.
You will work in a structured, security-conscious environment where attention to detail and adherence to protocols are essential. Depending on your posting, you may work in library facilities at major defence establishments, headquarters locations, or in specialized information centres supporting specific commands or research initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Perform information asset management / operations activities per GC IM policies, Manage information assets through their lifecycle, Ensure compliance with access to information and privacy requirements, Support information governance and standards
Required Skills
Records management, ATIP legislation, Information governance, Classification systems, Digital literacy, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify as a Librarian in the federal Public Service, you typically need a master's degree in Library Science, Library and Information Science (MLIS), or an equivalent recognized credential from an accredited institution. Some competitions may accept a bachelor's degree in Library Science combined with relevant professional experience. You should have strong knowledge of information management systems, cataloguing standards (such as Library of Congress Classification or Dewey Decimal System), and database management.
Professional development opportunities include certifications in specialized areas such as digital asset management, records management, and information security. DND supports ongoing learning through access to professional development courses, conferences, and memberships in organizations like the Canadian Library Association. You may also pursue certifications in government-specific areas such as Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) management or classified information handling.
Entry Plans
There are several pathways to become a Librarian in the federal Public Service. Most positions are filled through public Service competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents and typically require submission of an application, written exam, and interview.
The Public Service Commission also maintains talent pools for Information Management roles, including Librarians, which can accelerate placement into positions as they become available. If you are already a federal public servant in another role, you may apply for internal competitions or use lateral movement options to transfer into a Librarian position.
Students and recent graduates may also access opportunities through student employment programs such as the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or the Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC), which can lead to indeterminate employment offers upon graduation. Some positions may be filled through non-advertised processes if you have prior federal government experience or are identified through departmental recruitment initiatives.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are often available for Librarian positions within DND, though availability depends on operational needs and the specific location. Many library and information management roles can accommodate flexible schedules, including compressed work weeks or adjusted start and end times.
Remote or hybrid work options have expanded across the federal government, and some information management tasks—such as cataloguing, database maintenance, and research support—can be performed from home. However, positions involving direct public service delivery, classified material handling, or on-site collection management may require regular presence at DND facilities for security and operational reasons.
To learn about specific flexible work options for Librarian positions, consult the job posting details or contact the hiring manager directly. Arrangements are typically negotiated at the time of hiring or may be requested after you join DND, subject to management approval and operational requirements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
