Media Relations Clerks are essential members of the Department of National Defence's communications team. They support the development and delivery of media communications, helping to ensure accurate and timely information reaches the public about DND operations, initiatives, and defence matters. In this role, you'll work behind the scenes to coordinate media inquiries, prepare communications materials, and assist with media events and briefings.
Your day-to-day responsibilities may include responding to media requests, organizing media kits and backgrounders, scheduling interviews with senior officials, monitoring media coverage, maintaining media contact lists, and supporting the coordination of press conferences and media events. You'll work closely with Media Relations Officers and Communications teams across the department, learning how government communications function at a national level.
The work environment is fast-paced and deadline-driven. You'll interact with journalists, internal stakeholders, and the public regularly. Your attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously will be key to your success. Most Media Relations Clerks work standard office hours in Ottawa or other major Canadian cities where DND has significant operations, though flexibility may be required during major announcements or events.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and deliver media relations products and services, Draft content for various channels and audiences, Coordinate with stakeholders on messaging and approvals, Monitor and evaluate communications effectiveness
Required Skills
Writing and editing, Strategic thinking, Media relations, Digital content creation, Stakeholder engagement, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
Applicants typically require a high school diploma or equivalent. Many successful candidates have completed post-secondary education such as a diploma or degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field. Strong written and oral communication skills in English are essential; bilingualism (English and French) is highly valued in the federal Public Service.
Once hired, you'll receive on-the-job training specific to DND communications protocols, media relations procedures, and internal systems. The department provides ongoing professional development opportunities, including courses in media relations, crisis communications, writing for media, and government communications. Many employees pursue certifications through professional organizations such as the Canadian Public Relations Society or the International Association of Business Communicators. Advancement within the Media Relations career family typically requires developing expertise in strategic communications and media relations.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways within the federal Public Service. Most common is applying to advertised competitions for Media Relations Clerk positions posted on the Public Service Commission's Job Bank (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions typically occur when DND has vacancies and may be open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and other eligible candidates.
Students and recent graduates may have opportunities through federal internship programs such as the Student Work Experience Program (SWEP) or the Post-Secondary Recruitment Initiative for Next Generation (PSRING), which can lead to conversion to permanent positions. If you're already employed in the Public Service, you may be able to apply as an internal candidate or transfer laterally from other communications or administrative roles. Some individuals enter as casual workers or term employees first, gaining experience before transitioning to indeterminate (permanent) positions.
Competitive requirements typically include demonstrated written communication skills, often verified through an application exercise, and experience with office management or customer service. Preference may be given to bilingual candidates (English and French) depending on the position's language classification.
Part-Time Options
Media Relations Clerk positions are typically available on a full-time, permanent basis; however, part-time and term-based opportunities may become available depending on operational needs. The federal Public Service generally supports flexible work arrangements, and DND has been expanding options for remote and hybrid work in administrative and communications roles.
Depending on the specific position and manager discretion, you may be able to negotiate flexible hours or part-time schedules. Remote work options have become more common for administrative and communications support roles, especially outside of crisis periods or major media events. Work-life balance support, including access to Employee Assistance Programs and flexible leave options, is available to all DND civilian employees. If flexible arrangements are important to you, it's best to discuss these possibilities during the recruitment process and with your prospective manager.
