As a Public Outreach Analyst with the Department of National Defence, you will develop and implement strategic communication initiatives that build understanding and support for DND programs, operations, and values. Your work will directly shape how Canadians perceive and engage with the Canadian Armed Forces and defence priorities. You will analyze audience segments, identify communication opportunities, and create targeted messaging that resonates with diverse publics—from youth and students to community leaders and stakeholders.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include researching public opinion and sentiment, designing outreach campaigns, managing relationships with media and community organizations, and measuring the effectiveness of communication efforts. You will work collaboratively with colleagues across DND, other federal departments, and external partners to ensure consistent, compelling messaging. This role requires strong analytical skills, creative thinking, and the ability to communicate complex defence concepts in accessible language to various audiences.
Public Outreach Analysts work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where priorities can shift quickly in response to current events or strategic direction. You will balance planning and strategy with tactical execution, often juggling multiple projects simultaneously. Most positions are based in Ottawa or major Canadian cities, though some remote work options may be available depending on operational needs.
Key Responsibilities
Perform public outreach duties within the relationship management function, Prepare reports and documentation as required, Collaborate with team members and stakeholders, Maintain records and ensure compliance with relevant policies
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
Education: A bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, public relations, journalism, political science, or a related field is typically required. Some positions may accept equivalent work experience in lieu of formal education. Strong writing and research skills are essential.
Certifications and Professional Development: While not always mandatory, professional designations such as APR (Accredited in Public Relations) through the Canadian Public Relations Society can enhance your profile. DND supports continuing professional development, and employees are encouraged to pursue relevant training in digital marketing, data analytics, strategic communications, and specialized areas such as defence communications or stakeholder engagement.
Technical Skills: Proficiency with social media platforms, content management systems, analytics tools, and Microsoft Office is expected. Many positions require knowledge of federal communications policies, the Government of Canada Digital Standards, and accessibility requirements.
Entry Plans
Graduates and Early Career: Entry-level positions typically target recent graduates or those with 0-3 years of relevant experience. These roles are advertised through the Public Service Commission (PSC) and may include designated programs for post-secondary graduates.
Competitive Process: Most Public Outreach Analyst positions are filled through advertised competitions on the Government of Canada Jobs website. Candidates must be Canadian citizens, have valid security clearance eligibility, and meet the essential qualifications outlined in the job posting.
Student and Bridging Programs: DND participates in the Post-Secondary Recruitment Initiative (PSRI) and may offer internship or bridging positions for students and recent graduates. These provide valuable experience and can lead to permanent opportunities.
Lateral Moves: Individuals working in other communications, marketing, or public service roles may apply through advertised competitions. Your previous experience in the federal government or private sector may exempt you from certain qualification requirements.
Non-Advertised Processes: Occasionally, positions may be filled through staffing pools or non-advertised processes for internal candidates with demonstrated competency.
Part-Time Options
Part-time Options: Part-time work is available in some Public Outreach Analyst positions, though availability varies by location and operational requirements. Part-time employees work fewer hours while maintaining the same responsibilities, scaled appropriately.
Flexible Work Arrangements: Many positions offer flexible work schedules, including flexible hours and compressed work weeks, subject to operational needs and manager approval. Given the nature of public outreach, some flexibility is typically built into the role to accommodate events, campaigns, and stakeholder engagement activities that may occur outside standard business hours.
Remote and Hybrid Work: Since the shift to modern work arrangements, many DND communications positions support hybrid or remote work for portions of the week. This allows analysts to conduct research, write content, and manage campaigns from home, with in-office days reserved for meetings, collaboration, and strategic planning. Remote work availability depends on the specific position, security requirements, and management discretion.
Note: Part-time and flexible arrangements must be negotiated at the time of hiring or transfer and are subject to departmental operational requirements and collective agreement provisions.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
