As a Performance and Talent Management Analyst with the Department of National Defence, you will play a key role in developing and implementing human resources strategies that support organizational effectiveness and employee development. You will analyze performance management systems, design talent management initiatives, and provide expert advice to managers and senior leaders on workforce planning, succession planning, and employee engagement. Your work will directly contribute to building a stronger, more capable defence organization by ensuring our people are motivated, developed, and positioned for success.
In this role, you will manage a variety of responsibilities including developing performance management policies and tools, analyzing talent data to identify development opportunities, supporting recruitment and retention initiatives, and providing coaching to managers on performance management best practices. You will conduct research, gather stakeholder feedback, and use data analytics to assess the effectiveness of human resources programs. You will also collaborate with other HR specialists, line managers, and employees at all levels to ensure alignment between organizational goals and individual development.
You will work in a dynamic environment within DND's HR community, interacting with diverse teams across multiple locations and command structures. The work environment is collaborative and professional, with opportunities to influence policy at the departmental level and contribute to meaningful change in how we develop and support our civilian workforce.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver performance and talent management 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 succeed in this role, you should have a post-secondary education in human resources, business administration, psychology, or a related field. Many candidates hold a bachelor's degree; some pursue additional qualifications such as a master's degree in Human Resources Management or Business Administration. Professional certifications from organizations such as the Canadian HR Professionals Association (CHRPA) or the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) are valuable and may be required depending on the specific position level.
The Government of Canada provides extensive professional development opportunities for HR specialists. You will have access to training in areas such as talent management systems, data analysis, change management, and advanced HR practices. DND offers tuition support for relevant certifications and courses. You will also benefit from mentorship programs, internal HR forums, and participation in cross-functional project teams that build your expertise and leadership capabilities.
Entry Plans
There are several pathways to enter this career with the Government of Canada. The most common route is through public service job competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca). DND regularly posts competitions for Performance and Talent Management Analysts at various experience levels, from graduate positions to intermediate and senior roles.
If you are already working in the federal Public Service, you may be able to move into this career through internal competitions or lateral transfers, which can accelerate your entry. Students and recent graduates can explore the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or the Post-Secondary Recruitment (PSR) program to gain initial experience within DND or other government departments. Some candidates also enter through recruitment pools established by Treasury Board Secretariat or DND's HR branch.
To be competitive, emphasize any HR experience, project management skills, data analysis capabilities, and knowledge of performance management or talent development. Bilingualism (English and French) is an asset for many positions and may be required depending on the posting.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for Performance and Talent Management Analyst positions within DND, subject to operational requirements and manager approval. Many HR roles can be structured to accommodate part-time schedules, compressed work weeks, or flexible hours, as the work often involves planning, analysis, and project-based deliverables that can be organized flexibly.
Remote and hybrid work options have become increasingly available across the Government of Canada, including within DND's HR function. Depending on the specific position and the nature of the work, you may be able to work from home for a portion of your week while maintaining necessary in-person collaboration with colleagues and stakeholders. Work-life balance initiatives, leave options, and family-friendly policies are supported across the public service. Specific arrangements should be discussed with your manager and HR advisor, as they will depend on the requirements of your particular role and DND's operational needs.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
