As a Procurement Policy Officer with the Department of National Defence, you will develop, analyze, and implement procurement policies and strategies that support Canada's defence and security objectives. You will work at the intersection of policy development and operational procurement, ensuring that DND's purchasing practices align with Treasury Board standards, federal legislation, and departmental priorities. This role involves researching procurement trends, consulting with stakeholders across the department, and providing expert advice on complex procurement matters.
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include drafting and revising procurement policies, conducting policy analysis, evaluating the effectiveness of existing procedures, and providing guidance to procurement teams and managers. You will collaborate with colleagues in Supply Chain Management, Finance, and other branches to ensure policies are practical and implementable. You may also represent DND in interdepartmental working groups or contribute to government-wide procurement initiatives.
You will work in an office environment, primarily at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa or at other DND locations across Canada. This position offers opportunities to influence how the department operates and to contribute to the efficiency and integrity of Canada's defence procurement system.
Key Responsibilities
Perform procurement functions per GC procurement policies, Process requisitions, contracts, and procurement documents, Manage vendor relationships and monitor contract performance, Maintain asset and inventory records
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To be considered for a Procurement Policy Officer position, you typically need a post-secondary diploma or bachelor's degree in supply chain management, business administration, public administration, economics, or a related field. Some positions may accept candidates with extensive relevant work experience in procurement or policy roles as an alternative to formal education.
Professional certifications in procurement are highly valued, such as the Certified Professional Purchaser (CPP) designation from the Institute of Supply Management Canada, or equivalent credentials. Government of Canada training in procurement frameworks, Treasury Board policies, and federal contracting regulations is provided to successful candidates.
Once hired, you will have access to professional development opportunities including courses in advanced procurement policy, stakeholder engagement, data analysis for procurement, and management skills. DND supports employees pursuing procurement certifications and relevant graduate credentials. You will also participate in communities of practice with procurement professionals across the federal government to stay current with evolving best practices and legislative changes.
Entry Plans
Entry to this career in the federal Public Service typically occurs through public competitions advertised on the Government of Canada jobs website (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions are usually open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and other eligible candidates, and may specify preferences for veterans or members of equity-deserving groups.
You may enter as a Procurement Policy Officer at various levels depending on your education and experience. If you are early in your career, you might apply for competitions at the junior or intermediate level, such as a Policy Analyst or Procurement Coordinator role, and advance to the Procurement Policy Officer level through internal competitions or promotions. Experienced procurement professionals from other departments or the private sector may apply directly to Procurement Policy Officer competitions.
DND also participates in federal student and early-career recruitment programs. The Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) and Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaigns offer pathways to build experience while studying or immediately after graduation. Lateral moves from related positions in supply chain management, contracting, or policy analysis within DND or other government departments are another common entry route.
Part-Time Options
Part-time work is available for Procurement Policy Officer positions, though availability depends on operational needs and departmental priorities. Many policy roles can be structured with flexible scheduling arrangements, particularly where the work involves research, analysis, and written deliverables rather than real-time operational requirements.
The federal Public Service offers flexible work options including compressed work weeks, staggered hours, and telework. Given the analytical and policy nature of this role, remote work is often feasible for portions of your week, though some in-person presence may be required for meetings, consultations, and collaborative work with colleagues. Part-time and flexible arrangements are typically negotiated directly with your manager and must align with the operational needs of the branch.
If you are interested in part-time or flexible work, it is advisable to discuss these options during the hiring process or as soon as possible after being hired. The Public Service Labour Relations Act and applicable Treasury Board policies provide frameworks for accommodating flexible work arrangements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
