As a Performance and Talent Management Policy Advisor, you will play a key role in developing, implementing, and evaluating human resources policies that shape how the Department of National Defence manages employee performance and talent. You will work collaboratively with senior management, HR teams, and employees across the organization to create policies that support organizational goals while ensuring fair, consistent, and effective performance management practices. Your expertise will directly influence how thousands of DND employees are evaluated, developed, and recognized for their contributions.
In this role, you will analyze current performance management practices, identify gaps and opportunities for improvement, and recommend policy changes that align with Treasury Board directives and Government of Canada standards. You will conduct research, consult with stakeholders at all levels, prepare briefing materials for decision-makers, and provide advice on the application of policies to complex workplace situations. You will also contribute to the development of training materials and guidance documents to help managers and employees understand and effectively use performance and talent management systems.
You will work in a collaborative office environment within the Department's Human Resources or Policy branch, primarily in the National Capital Region or at other major DND locations. Your work will require attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to balance multiple priorities while meeting tight deadlines. You will have regular contact with HR professionals, departmental managers, and other government agencies involved in human resources policy development.
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 management, business administration, public administration, or a related discipline. Many successful candidates hold a bachelor's degree or diploma in one of these fields. Some positions may prefer or require a master's degree in human resources, public administration, or business administration.
Professional certifications are valuable and may include credentials from the Human Resources Institute of Canada (HRIC), the Canadian HR Reporter, or the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). These certifications demonstrate your commitment to professional development and knowledge of current HR practices.
Once hired, you will have access to Government of Canada and DND training and development opportunities. These include courses in policy development, legislative and regulatory frameworks, performance management systems, organizational development, and advanced HR topics. You will also be encouraged to maintain and advance professional certifications and participate in conferences and professional associations relevant to human resources and public sector management.
Entry Plans
To become a Performance and Talent Management Policy Advisor at DND, you can enter the federal Public Service through several pathways:
Public Service Commission (PSC) job competitions are the primary route. DND regularly posts positions for HR advisors and policy specialists. These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents and are posted on the Government of Canada's official job board (jobs.gc.ca). You can also register with the Public Service Commission to receive notifications when relevant positions are posted.
If you are already a federal public servant, you may be able to move into this role through an internal competition or a lateral move within DND or other government departments. Many HR professionals advance into policy roles after gaining experience in operational HR positions.
The Federal Student Work Program (FSWP) and the Post-Secondary Recruitment Initiative (PSRI) may provide opportunities if you are currently a student or recent graduate. These programs help develop future public servants in entry-level positions before they transition to permanent roles.
You may also enter through the Public Service Staffing Pools, which are established for common HR positions and allow multiple hiring managers to recruit from a single vetted candidate list. Check the PSC website regularly for active pools in human resources and policy advising.
Part-Time Options
Performance and Talent Management Policy Advisor positions are typically offered as full-time, permanent positions. However, the federal Public Service does offer flexible work arrangements in many cases.
Remote work options have expanded significantly across DND. Many policy advisor roles can be performed effectively from home or from hybrid arrangements (combining office and remote days). Your specific remote work eligibility will depend on the position, your manager's approval, and departmental operational needs. Some positions may require you to be in the office on specific days or for collaborative meetings.
Flexible scheduling is often available, allowing you to adjust your start and end times within established parameters, subject to manager approval and operational requirements. This flexibility helps support work-life balance while maintaining the continuity needed for policy work.
Part-time and job-share arrangements are less common for policy advisor roles due to the complexity and continuity required, but they may be available in some circumstances. If you are seeking part-time work, you can discuss this possibility with your hiring manager or HR representative. The Public Service is committed to work-life balance and will discuss options that meet both your needs and operational requirements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
