As a Performance and Talent Management Assistant, you support the delivery of human resources programs and services that help develop and retain talented employees across the Department of National Defence. You work alongside HR professionals to administer performance management systems, coordinate talent development initiatives, and maintain personnel records. This role is essential to creating a workplace where employees can grow their skills and advance their careers while contributing to Canada's defence mission.
In this position, you handle administrative tasks that keep HR operations running smoothly. Your responsibilities include processing performance documentation, scheduling training sessions, organizing talent management events, tracking employee development records, and assisting with recruitment activities. You communicate regularly with employees at all levels, responding to inquiries about HR programs and providing guidance on career development opportunities.
You work in a professional office environment, primarily at a Defence headquarters location or regional office. Your day-to-day activities involve computer-based work, including data entry, database management, and document preparation. You collaborate with HR specialists, managers, and employees, requiring strong interpersonal and organizational skills. The role offers exposure to how large organizations develop and support their 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 need a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum requirement. Many candidates bring post-secondary education in business administration, human resources, or a related field, though this is not always required. Strong computer skills are essential, including proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, email systems, and HR information management software. You will receive on-the-job training in the Department's specific HR systems, policies, and procedures once hired.
Professional development opportunities are available through the Public Service. You may pursue certification in human resources through organizations such as the Canadian HR Professionals Association or the Human Resources Institute of Alberta. The Department supports employee learning through access to online courses, workshops, and mentoring programs. Many employees in this role use it as a stepping stone to advance into full HR specialist positions, which may require additional formal education in human resources management.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways in the federal Public Service. The most common route is through a Government of Canada staffing competition advertised on the Public Service Commission website (jobs.gc.ca) or through the Department of National Defence careers portal. These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
If you are already a federal public servant, you may be able to move into this role through a lateral transfer or promotion, depending on your current classification and experience. The Department also participates in student employment programs, including the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) and Post-Secondary Recruitment (PSR), which allow students to gain experience and transition into permanent positions.
Your background in administrative support, customer service, or human resources-related work will strengthen your application. Competition results may lead to placement on a hiring pool, providing opportunities for employment with the Department or other federal organizations across Canada.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are typically available for Performance and Talent Management Assistant positions, depending on operational needs and location. Many Department of National Defence offices offer flexible hours, allowing you to adjust your start and end times within agreed parameters. Some positions may support compressed work weeks, where you work longer days over fewer weeks.
Remote or hybrid work options have expanded across the federal Public Service. Depending on your specific duties and manager approval, you may be able to work from home for part of your week, with in-office time required for collaborative HR activities and direct support to employees. Arrangements are negotiated with your manager and must support the delivery of HR services to the Department. Part-time positions are sometimes available, though full-time roles are more common. Job sharing arrangements may also be possible in some locations. Specific flexibility options should be discussed during the recruitment process and will depend on your assigned workplace and organizational requirements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
