Project Administration Officers provide essential administrative and operational support to project teams and project managers across the Department of National Defence. You will be responsible for coordinating project activities, managing documentation, scheduling meetings, tracking timelines, and ensuring that projects stay organized and on track. This role is critical to the successful delivery of defence initiatives, supporting everything from infrastructure projects to technology implementations and organizational change efforts.
In this position, you will manage project records, maintain databases, prepare reports, coordinate communications between team members, and handle logistics. You'll work closely with project managers and team members at all levels, serving as a central point of coordination for project information and administrative tasks. Your attention to detail and organizational skills will directly contribute to project success and team efficiency.
Project Administration Officers work in a dynamic, collaborative environment within Defence headquarters, regional offices, or operational units. You will interact regularly with colleagues from various departments and disciplines, adapting to changing project priorities and timelines. This role offers the opportunity to gain broad exposure to Defence operations while building valuable project management experience.
Key Responsibilities
Perform project management duties in support of departmental operations, Prepare correspondence, reports, and administrative documents, Coordinate schedules, meetings, and logistics, Maintain records and filing systems
Required Skills
Organizational skills, Written and oral communication, MS Office proficiency, Time management, Attention to detail, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring post-secondary education in business administration, office management, or a related field. Strong computer skills are essential, including proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and project management software.
The Government of Canada offers professional development opportunities including training in project management fundamentals, advanced administrative skills, and Defence-specific processes. Many Project Administration Officers pursue Project Management Institute (PMI) certifications such as the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) or other relevant credentials. Internal courses through the Canada School of Public Service and departmental training programs help develop your skills in areas like financial management, communications, and leadership.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways in the federal Public Service. The most common route is through open competitions posted on the Government of Canada Job Board, where positions are advertised at the CR-04 and CR-05 levels. The Public Service Commission regularly runs recruitment campaigns for Project Administration Officer positions across Defence and other departments.
Students can gain entry through the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or the Co-op Student Program, which provide valuable work experience and often lead to permanent opportunities. If you are already employed in the Public Service, you may be able to move into this role through internal competitions or lateral transfers, particularly if you have relevant administrative experience.
Some positions are filled through Staffing Priority Groups, which may apply to former public servants, members of the Canadian Armed Forces, or individuals with employment equity considerations. The Recruitment of Persons with Disabilities program and other priority hiring initiatives also provide pathways into this career.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are often available for Project Administration Officer positions, depending on operational requirements and the specific project. Many Defence offices support flexible schedules and compressed work weeks where feasible. Remote work options have expanded in recent years, with many administrative duties able to be performed from home with appropriate security measures in place.
The feasibility of part-time or remote work can vary based on your assigned project, security clearance requirements, and team needs. Discussions about flexible arrangements are typically conducted with your manager and supervisor once you are hired. The Public Service is committed to offering work-life balance, and many employees in this role successfully negotiate arrangements that suit both Defence operations and their personal circumstances.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
