Public Relations Clerks support the communications and public relations functions within Department of National Defence (DND) and Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) organizations. They assist in developing, coordinating, and delivering communications materials, messages, and strategies that inform the public, media, and internal stakeholders about defence and military operations. Working within communications teams, Public Relations Clerks perform administrative and operational tasks that support the broader public relations mission.
Responsibilities include preparing communications documents and materials, coordinating media inquiries and responses, maintaining media contact lists and databases, organizing communications events, and assisting with social media and digital communications initiatives. Public Relations Clerks may also support the development of news releases, fact sheets, talking points, and other materials for various audiences. They work closely with Public Relations Officers, Communications Advisors, and other team members to ensure timely and accurate delivery of information.
Public Relations Clerks typically work in office environments at DND headquarters, Canadian Armed Forces bases, or regional offices across Canada. The role involves regular interaction with colleagues, media representatives, and the public. Work is usually performed during standard business hours, though special projects or communications initiatives may require flexible scheduling.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and deliver public relations products and services, Draft content for various channels and audiences, Coordinate with stakeholders on messaging and approvals, Monitor and evaluate communications effectiveness
Required Skills
Writing and editing, Strategic thinking, Media relations, Digital content creation, Stakeholder engagement, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify as a Public Relations Clerk, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Many candidates complete post-secondary education in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field through a college or university program. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, along with proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and familiarity with digital platforms.
Once hired, Public Relations Clerks receive on-the-job training covering DND communications policies, security protocols, and specific organizational procedures. The Government of Canada provides professional development opportunities through the Canada School of Public Service and other training providers. Many Public Relations Clerks pursue certificates or continued education in communications, media relations, or digital marketing to advance their careers. Security clearance training and briefings on DND-specific content are provided as needed for the role.
Entry Plans
Public Relations Clerks typically enter the federal Public Service through competitive staffing processes advertised on the Government of Canada's Job Bank and through DND recruitment channels. The Public Service Commission (PSC) manages these competitions, which may be open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or current federal public servants depending on the specific competition.
Entry pathways include: open competitions for external candidates with the required education and experience; internal competitions for current federal employees seeking lateral moves or advancement; and participation in recruitment initiatives targeting recent graduates or specific demographic groups. Some candidates enter through indeterminate positions, while others may start on a term or casual basis. Current DND civilian employees may move into this role through lateral transfer competitions. Students may gain experience through student employment programs or co-op placements, which can lead to permanent positions. Candidates should monitor Government of Canada job postings regularly and may also contact DND Human Resources offices directly for information about upcoming opportunities.
Part-Time Options
Public Relations Clerk positions in DND are typically offered on a full-time, indeterminate basis; however, flexible work arrangements are often available. Many DND offices support hybrid work models that combine office and remote work, allowing Public Relations Clerks to perform administrative tasks and communications support from home while maintaining regular office presence for collaboration and media coordination.
Part-time and term positions may be available depending on organizational needs and seasonal communications demands. Flexible scheduling options, such as compressed work weeks or adjusted start and end times, can be negotiated with supervisors to accommodate personal commitments. Remote work is feasible for many duties including document preparation, database management, and email coordination, though regular on-site presence is typically required for meetings, events, and media interactions. The specific flexibility available depends on the DND organization, location, and current operational requirements. Interested candidates should discuss work arrangement options during the recruitment and hiring process.
