As a Public Outreach Policy Analyst with the Department of National Defence, you will develop and implement strategic communication initiatives that build understanding and support for defence and security policies among diverse audiences. You will analyze public perceptions, identify communication opportunities, and create messaging strategies that effectively convey complex policy information to the Canadian public, media, stakeholders, and international partners. This role combines policy knowledge with communication expertise to strengthen the DND's relationship with the communities it serves. Your work will directly influence how Canadians understand defence initiatives and the role of the Canadian Armed Forces in national security. You will collaborate with policy teams, communications specialists, and external stakeholders to ensure consistent, clear, and compelling public messaging. The work environment is dynamic and fast-paced, requiring you to respond to current events, manage multiple priorities, and work across different organizational levels and departments.
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
You will need a bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, policy studies, political science, business administration, or a related field. Some positions may accept equivalent work experience in place of formal education. Professional certifications from organizations such as the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) or the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) are valuable and may be required for some positions. In this role, you will have access to professional development opportunities including training in policy analysis, digital communications, stakeholder engagement, media relations, and government communications standards. The federal Public Service offers ongoing learning through the Canada School of Public Service, departmental training programs, and external course sponsorships to support your career growth and keep your skills current with evolving communication trends and technologies.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways within the federal Public Service. The most common route is through external competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website, where you can apply as a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. The Public Service also uses recruitment pools and process pools for similar positions across departments, which may allow you to compete without applying to individual competitions. If you are already a federal public servant, you may transition into this role through internal competitions or lateral moves to DND. Students and recent graduates can explore the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP), the Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC), or the Canadian Armed Forces Military to Civilian Transition Program if applicable. Some positions may be filled through staffing for persons with disabilities or priority hiring initiatives. Networking with current DND employees and understanding the departmental hiring process will strengthen your application.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for Public Outreach Policy Analyst positions, though availability depends on operational needs and the specific role. Many positions offer telework or hybrid arrangements, allowing you to work remotely for a portion of your week while maintaining collaboration with your team in Ottawa or other DND locations. Flexible hours may be negotiated within the parameters of business requirements, particularly for roles that do not require constant on-site presence. Term positions and casual work opportunities occasionally become available for those seeking non-permanent employment. We encourage you to discuss work arrangement options during the recruitment process, as accommodations can often be made to support work-life balance while maintaining service delivery to the department and the Canadian public.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
