Midwives in the Department of National Defence provide comprehensive maternal and newborn health care services to Canadian Armed Forces members, veterans, and their families. As a Midwife, you will offer evidence-based care throughout the pregnancy, labour, delivery, and postpartum periods. You will work collaboratively with physicians, nurses, and other health care professionals to ensure optimal outcomes for mothers and babies in military health care settings.
Your responsibilities include conducting prenatal assessments, managing uncomplicated pregnancies and deliveries, providing labour support, performing newborn care, and offering postpartum follow-up. You will also provide health education and counselling on nutrition, exercise, breastfeeding, and family planning. Working in a military environment, you may provide care in various settings including hospitals, clinics, and field operations, depending on your posting and operational requirements.
This role requires strong clinical judgment, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team. You will be committed to providing compassionate, culturally sensitive care while maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards.
Key Responsibilities
Provide medicine services to clients and patients, Assess needs and develop treatment or service plans, Maintain accurate clinical and case records, Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver care
Required Skills
Clinical skills, Patient/client assessment, Empathy and communication, Record-keeping, Interdisciplinary collaboration, 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 Midwife with the Department of National Defence, you must hold a Bachelor's degree in Midwifery or equivalent from an accredited Canadian institution, or provide evidence of equivalent education and experience. You must be licensed and in good standing with your provincial or territorial regulatory college of midwives. Current certification in Advanced Life Support (ALS) or Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) is required, with other certifications such as Fetal Health Surveillance considered an asset.
Continuing professional development is essential in this role. The DND supports participation in relevant conferences, workshops, and training programs to maintain clinical competency and stay current with evolving midwifery practices. You will have access to professional development funds and educational leave to pursue additional certifications or specialized training in areas such as high-risk pregnancy management or reproductive health. Regular participation in clinical rounds, case reviews, and interprofessional learning activities will be part of your ongoing development.
Entry Plans
Entry into the midwifery profession with the Department of National Defence typically occurs through open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's job website (jobs.gc.ca) and the DND Civilian Workforce careers portal. These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who meet the education and licensing requirements.
You may also enter through lateral moves if you are already employed in the federal Public Service and meet the qualification requirements for the position. Some positions may be filled through advertised pools that allow for rapid staffing of multiple vacancies. Student or early-career programs may occasionally be available for recent graduates; check the careers website regularly for opportunities designed for professionals new to the federal Public Service.
The application process includes submitting a complete resume and cover letter demonstrating how you meet all essential and desirable qualifications. Successful candidates typically participate in an interview and may be required to provide proof of current licensure and professional references.
Part-Time Options
The Department of National Defence offers flexibility in work arrangements for health care professionals, including midwives. Part-time positions may be available depending on operational needs and the specific health care facility where you are posted. These positions typically range from reduced hours per week to job-sharing arrangements with other qualified professionals.
Remote work options are limited for midwives due to the clinical nature of the role, which requires direct patient care and hands-on assessment. However, some administrative and educational components of the position may be performed remotely when operationally feasible. Flexible scheduling, including shift work arrangements, may be available to accommodate work-life balance while ensuring continuous coverage of maternal and newborn health services.
Leave provisions under the Public Service Labor Relations Act include parental leave, compassionate care leave, and other legislated entitlements. The DND is committed to supporting employees in achieving a healthy work-life balance while maintaining the delivery of essential health care services to the military community.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
