Public Outreach Clerks play a vital role in helping the Department of National Defence connect with Canadians. You'll be responsible for managing communications and building relationships between DND and the public, media, stakeholders, and internal teams. Your work directly supports the Department's mission to keep Canadians informed about defence initiatives, programs, and services.
In this role, you'll handle a variety of outreach activities including coordinating communications campaigns, managing social media channels, organizing public events, and responding to public inquiries. You'll work with different teams across DND to gather information, develop messaging, and ensure accurate communication reaches the right audience. This is dynamic work that requires attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to communicate clearly with diverse groups.
Public Outreach Clerks typically work in office environments at DND headquarters or regional offices. You'll collaborate with communications professionals, military personnel, and external partners. The role offers excellent exposure to government communications and public relations, making it an ideal entry point for those interested in the broader communications field.
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
Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers prefer post-secondary education in communications, public relations, marketing, or a related field, though this is not always mandatory for entry-level clerk positions.
Once hired, you'll receive on-the-job training specific to DND systems, procedures, and communications guidelines. The Government of Canada offers professional development opportunities through departments and Treasury Board, including courses in written communication, digital media, stakeholder engagement, and project management. Many Public Outreach Clerks pursue professional certifications in public relations or marketing through organizations like the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) to advance their careers. Your department may also support attendance at relevant workshops and conferences.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways in the federal Public Service. Most common is applying to advertised Public Service Commission (PSC) competitions for Public Outreach Clerk positions posted on the Government of Canada Jobs website. DND also maintains staffing pools for clerk-level positions that may be used to fill vacancies quickly.
If you're a recent graduate, watch for post-secondary recruitment programs and co-op/student placement opportunities with DND. Some departments use the Canadian Armed Forces Member and Veteran Employment Program for eligible candidates. You can also transition into this role from other clerk positions within DND or the broader federal public service through internal competitions or lateral moves if you have relevant experience in communications, customer service, or administrative support.
Before applying, ensure you meet the essential qualifications, obtain security clearance eligibility confirmation, and prepare examples of your communication and organizational skills for the selection process.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements for Public Outreach Clerks vary by location and operational needs. Many DND offices offer flexible schedules and compressed work weeks where possible, though some outreach activities may require occasional evening or weekend availability depending on events or campaign timelines.
Remote work options have expanded across the federal public service. Depending on your specific role and manager, you may be able to perform certain tasks—such as content creation, social media management, and administrative work—from home. However, roles involving in-person event coordination or direct public interaction may require on-site presence for part of your schedule.
Work-life balance initiatives, leave options, and accommodation requests are available through your department's human resources office. Discuss your preferences and needs with your manager or HR representative when you begin your position, as arrangements depend on operational requirements and team structure.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
