Nursing Assistants provide essential direct care and support to patients in Department of National Defence health care facilities and clinics. Working under the supervision of nurses and other health care professionals, you will assist with patient hygiene, comfort, and mobility while maintaining a safe and clean environment. Your role is fundamental to delivering quality health care to Canadian Armed Forces members, veterans, and eligible civilians.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include helping patients with personal hygiene and grooming, assisting with patient movement and positioning, taking vital signs, maintaining patient records, and ensuring patient rooms are clean and safe. You will communicate effectively with patients and health care teams, respond to patient needs promptly, and follow infection control and safety protocols at all times.
You will work in hospitals, clinics, and medical facilities operated by the Department of National Defence. This is a patient-focused role that requires compassion, reliability, and attention to detail. You may work shifts including evenings, nights, and weekends depending on facility needs.
Key Responsibilities
Provide nursing 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
Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers prefer or require completion of a nursing assistant or health care aide certification program, typically offered through community colleges or vocational training institutions. These programs usually take 4 to 8 months to complete and cover patient care techniques, infection control, communication skills, and basic anatomy.
Certifications such as CPR/BLS (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation/Basic Life Support) and First Aid are typically required or must be obtained shortly after hiring. Some provinces require specific licensure or registration for health care aides; the Department follows applicable provincial requirements.
Once hired, you will receive on-the-job training specific to Department of National Defence facilities, policies, and procedures. Continuous learning opportunities are available through professional development programs, workshops on new care techniques, and advancement pathways to licensed practical nurse or registered nurse positions for those who pursue further education.
Entry Plans
The Department of National Defence recruits Nursing Assistants through public competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank and the DND Civilian Workforce careers website. Competitions are typically open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
You may enter through several pathways: direct competition for entry-level positions, student programs such as the Post-Secondary Student Employment Program (PSEP) if you are enrolled in a relevant program, or lateral moves from other Government of Canada departments or provincial health authorities.
The application process requires submission of your résumé, proof of educational qualifications, and certifications. Successful candidates complete a background security check, medical evaluation, and reference verification. Some competitions may include written assessments or interviews to evaluate your patient care knowledge, communication skills, and ability to work in a health care team environment.
Part-Time Options
Part-time positions are available at many Department of National Defence health care facilities. Part-time Nursing Assistants typically work between 15 and 30 hours per week and receive benefits on a pro-rated basis.
Flexible scheduling options may be available depending on facility needs and operational requirements. Many health care facilities operate 24/7, which can provide opportunities for shift selections that suit your personal schedule. Remote work is not applicable to this role due to the hands-on, patient-facing nature of nursing assistant duties.
Casual and temporary positions are also available and may offer additional flexibility. These opportunities allow you to gain experience in the health care sector, maintain work-life balance, or transition into full-time permanent employment. Speak with your local DND recruitment office about part-time and flexible options in your region.
