As a Machinist with the Department of National Defence, you will operate, maintain, and optimize precision machinery and equipment essential to defence operations and maintenance. You'll work with Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines, lathes, milling machines, and other specialized equipment to manufacture, modify, and repair components according to technical specifications. Your work directly supports military readiness by ensuring that critical parts and equipment meet the highest standards of quality and precision.
Your responsibilities will include reading and interpreting technical drawings, blueprints, and engineering specifications; setting up and operating machinery with precision tolerances; performing quality control inspections; and troubleshooting equipment issues. You'll collaborate with engineers, supervisors, and other trades personnel to meet production schedules and maintain safe working practices. The role requires attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to maintaining the safety standards required in defence environments.
Machinists typically work in well-equipped workshops and manufacturing facilities on DND bases across Canada. The role offers hands-on technical work in a structured military environment where your contributions directly impact operational capability. You may work standard business hours, though shift work or overtime may be required depending on production demands and operational priorities.
Key Responsibilities
Perform machining and shaping tasks maintaining government facilities and assets, Operate tools, equipment, and machinery safely, Follow technical specifications and safety procedures, Maintain records of work performed and materials used
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To become a Machinist with DND, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent (Grade 12). Many successful candidates complete a registered apprenticeship program in machining (usually 4 years) or post-secondary training in machining technology from a recognized institution. While not always required at entry, many positions prefer or require recognized credentials such as a journeyperson certification in machining.
Once hired, DND provides on-the-job training specific to military equipment, procedures, and standards. You'll develop expertise in precision measurement, CNC programming, blueprint interpretation, and quality control processes. The department supports ongoing professional development, including advanced machining techniques, specialized equipment operation, and safety certifications. Depending on your performance and interests, you may have opportunities to pursue supervisory training or specialized roles in tool and die making or quality inspection.
Entry Plans
There are several pathways to join DND as a Machinist. The primary route is through open 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 you to meet education and experience requirements.
If you're a student or recent graduate, you may be eligible for the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or the Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC), which provide opportunities to work while gaining experience in the federal public service. Veterans transitioning from the Canadian Armed Forces may enter through adapted recruitment processes that recognize military training and experience.
You can also enter the Public Service through lateral movement if you're already employed in a federal position. DND periodically creates staffing pools for trades positions, which allow qualified candidates to be quickly placed in vacant positions without competing in individual competitions. Registering with the National Capital Region Skilled Trades Pool or similar regional pools increases your visibility to hiring managers.
Part-Time Options
Full-time permanent positions are the standard for Machinists in DND, as the role requires consistent presence in the workshop environment and ongoing responsibility for equipment and production schedules. However, DND does offer some flexibility options depending on operational needs and local management approval.
Term employment or casual work may be available on a part-time basis during peak production periods or to replace staff on leave. Once hired in a permanent position, you may be able to negotiate flexible work arrangements such as compressed work weeks or adjusted start times, subject to operational requirements and supervisor approval. Remote work is not applicable to this role due to the hands-on nature of machining work.
If you're exploring federal careers while balancing other commitments, student work programs (FSWEP and PSRC) offer part-time opportunities during the school year and full-time positions during summer months. These programs provide an excellent way to gain experience before committing to a permanent position.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
