Oil and Gas Service Operators perform essential maintenance, repair, and operational duties at Department of National Defence oil and gas facilities and equipment across Canada. Working as part of specialized trades teams, you'll be responsible for operating, monitoring, and servicing equipment that supports military infrastructure and operations. This role requires attention to detail, strong mechanical aptitude, and the ability to follow strict safety protocols in potentially hazardous environments. You'll contribute directly to keeping critical defence infrastructure operational and reliable.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include conducting routine inspections, performing preventive maintenance, responding to equipment malfunctions, and documenting all work activities. You'll work with various tools, diagnostic equipment, and technical systems while adhering to environmental regulations and DND safety standards. The role may involve shift work, on-call availability, and occasional travel to different facilities depending on operational needs and staffing requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Perform specialty trades 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
Entry into this position typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Preferred qualifications include completion of a trades apprenticeship or technical certificate in HVAC, plumbing, mechanical systems, or related fields, though on-the-job training is provided. Some positions may require or prefer professional certifications such as Class 5 or higher driver's license, confined space entry certification, fall protection training, or equipment-specific qualifications.
Once hired, you'll participate in comprehensive on-the-job training delivered by experienced personnel at your assigned location. DND supports ongoing professional development through internal training programs, certification courses, and opportunities to advance technical skills. As you progress in your career, you may pursue additional credentials in specialized areas such as advanced diagnostics, supervisory roles, or equipment operation certifications relevant to defence infrastructure.
Entry Plans
The Public Service Commission regularly conducts competitions to fill Oil and Gas Service Operator positions within DND. Entry typically occurs at the Employee level, and you may be recruited through open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada jobs website (jobs.gc.ca). Some positions are filled through internal pools or priority hiring lists for current federal employees.
If you're already working in the federal Public Service in a different role, you may be able to apply for lateral moves into this position. Student summer employment programs and apprenticeship initiatives occasionally provide pathways for recent high school graduates to enter the trades within DND. The specific entry process depends on current staffing needs, location, and whether positions are open to the public or restricted to current public servants.
Part-Time Options
Oil and Gas Service Operator positions are typically full-time, permanent roles. However, DND does offer some flexibility depending on operational requirements and facility needs. Part-time or term-limited positions may occasionally be available during peak maintenance periods or to cover staffing gaps, though these are less common in this specialty trades category.
Remote work is not applicable to this role, as work must be performed on-site at DND facilities to operate equipment, conduct inspections, and perform maintenance tasks. Shift work is standard, which may include early mornings, evenings, and weekend coverage depending on facility operations. Some positions offer flexible scheduling within the framework of shift requirements. Discuss specific schedule options, on-call arrangements, and location flexibility directly with the hiring manager or recruiter during the application process, as these factors vary by posting and facility location.
