As an Occupational Health and Safety Advisor in the Department of National Defence, you will be responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring occupational health and safety (OHS) programs and policies across DND facilities and operations. You will provide expert advice to managers and supervisors on OHS compliance, hazard identification, risk assessment, and injury prevention strategies. Your work will directly contribute to creating safer workplaces for military personnel and civilian employees.
In this role, you will conduct workplace inspections and audits, investigate incidents and accidents, and develop corrective action plans. You will also provide training and guidance to employees on OHS procedures and best practices, and stay current with federal and provincial OHS legislation and DND-specific regulations. You will work collaboratively with managers, safety committees, medical professionals, and external health and safety organizations to ensure continuous improvement in workplace safety culture.
As an Occupational Health and Safety Advisor, you will work in a dynamic environment that spans military bases, office facilities, and operational sites across Canada. Your advice will be sought by leadership at multiple levels, and your contributions will have a meaningful impact on the health and safety of DND's diverse workforce.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver occupational health and safety services to managers and employees, Advise on HR policies, procedures, and best practices, Process HR transactions and maintain accurate records, Support organizational HR initiatives and programs
Required Skills
HR policy interpretation, Interpersonal skills, Staffing and classification, Conflict resolution, Labour relations knowledge, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify for this position, you typically need a secondary school diploma or equivalent and relevant OHS experience. Many successful candidates hold a post-secondary diploma or degree in occupational health and safety, environmental health, industrial hygiene, or a related field. Experience in workplace hazard assessment, safety program development, or compliance with OHS legislation is highly valued.
Professional certifications strengthen your candidacy. Common credentials include Certified Health and Safety Professional (CHSP) through the Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals (BCRSP), Occupational Health and Safety Technician (OHST), or provincial-level OHS certifications. Within DND, you may pursue additional training in military-specific safety protocols, incident investigation, and emergency management.
Ongoing professional development is encouraged, including participation in webinars, workshops, and conferences related to OHS trends, emerging hazards, and regulatory changes. DND supports continuing education to maintain professional certifications and expand your expertise in specialized areas such as ergonomics, mental health in the workplace, or construction safety.
Entry Plans
Entry to the Occupational Health and Safety Advisor position in DND follows standard federal Public Service hiring practices. Most positions are filled through open competitive public service staffing processes, which are posted on the Government of Canada's Job Bank and DND's careers portal. To apply, you must be a Canadian citizen, hold a valid security clearance (or be eligible to obtain one), and meet the stated qualifications.
You may also enter through internal competitions if you are already a federal public servant, which can provide a faster pathway if you meet the required qualifications. Some positions may be filled through lateral moves within DND if you are currently employed in another occupational group and possess the necessary OHS expertise.
If you are early in your career, look for Student Work placements or recruitment initiatives targeting recent graduates with OHS credentials. DND occasionally participates in Federal Student Work Experience programs and targets recruitment for specific occupational groups. Networking with DND's OHS community and staying informed about competitions through the DND Civilian Careers website will increase your awareness of upcoming opportunities.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for Occupational Health and Safety Advisors in DND, depending on operational needs and manager approval. Many positions offer the flexibility to work compressed work weeks or adjust start and end times to accommodate personal circumstances while maintaining full workplace coverage.
Remote work options have expanded across the federal government, and OHS Advisors may be able to work from home for certain duties such as policy development, training preparation, and report writing. However, this role typically requires some on-site presence to conduct inspections, investigations, and training delivery. The specific remote work eligibility will depend on your work unit, the nature of your assignments, and management requirements.
DND is committed to supporting work-life balance and accommodating requests for part-time or flexible arrangements where operationally feasible. If flexible work is important to you, discuss options with the hiring manager during the recruitment process to ensure alignment with your needs and the role's requirements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
