As a Regulatory Compliance Officer with the Department of National Defence, you will play a critical role in ensuring that DND operations, policies, and practices comply with federal legislation, regulations, and government directives. You will work within the Policing job family, focusing on public safety, defence and security management to protect Canada's interests and uphold the rule of law. Your responsibilities will include reviewing policies and procedures, conducting compliance audits, investigating potential violations, and providing expert advice to senior management on regulatory requirements and risk mitigation strategies.
In this role, you will analyze complex regulatory frameworks, maintain detailed compliance documentation, and develop training materials to help employees understand their obligations. You may work with multiple departments and external agencies to ensure consistent application of regulations across DND. Your work will directly support operational effectiveness by identifying compliance gaps, recommending corrective actions, and helping prevent costly violations. You will also stay current with changing legislation and advise leadership on how regulatory changes impact defence and security operations.
You will typically work in an office environment at a DND headquarters, regional office, or operational location. The role offers opportunities to develop specialized knowledge in defence-related regulations, security protocols, and government compliance frameworks while contributing to Canada's national security objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Perform policing duties supporting public safety and security, Conduct assessments, investigations, and monitoring activities, Enforce regulations and respond to incidents, Prepare reports and maintain operational records
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To succeed as a Regulatory Compliance Officer with DND, you typically need a bachelor's degree in business, law, public administration, or a related field. Many candidates also hold professional certifications such as Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional (CCEP), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), or similar designations relevant to regulatory compliance. Strong knowledge of federal legislation, government policies, and administrative law is essential.
Upon joining DND, you will receive on-the-job training specific to defence regulations, security clearance procedures, and departmental compliance systems. The Public Service offers professional development opportunities including courses in regulatory frameworks, audit practices, policy analysis, and investigation techniques. Many Regulatory Compliance Officers pursue additional certifications throughout their careers to advance their expertise. You may also have access to training in security management, access to information and privacy (ATIP), and specialized defence-related compliance areas depending on your posting.
Entry Plans
Entry into the Regulatory Compliance Officer position at DND typically occurs through advertised Public Service competitions open to Canadian citizens. These competitions are posted on the Government of Canada's Job Bank and the Public Service Commission website. You may enter at different classification levels depending on your education and experience.
If you are already working in the federal Public Service, you can apply for lateral moves into Regulatory Compliance Officer positions through internal competitions or staffing processes. DND also participates in various recruitment initiatives and student programs, including the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) and post-secondary recruitment campaigns, which can lead to permanent positions after successful completion. Some candidates transition into this role from related positions in policy analysis, auditing, or security management within DND or other government departments. Specific entry requirements, including language proficiency (English and/or French), security clearance eligibility, and education credentials, will be outlined in each competition notice.
Part-Time Options
Regulatory Compliance Officer positions at DND are typically full-time permanent roles; however, flexible work arrangements may be available depending on operational needs and management approval. Many DND locations now offer hybrid work models that combine office and remote work, particularly for tasks involving document review, policy analysis, and report writing. Part-time or job-sharing options are sometimes available but are less common for this role due to the specialized nature of compliance work and the need for continuity in regulatory oversight.
When available, flexible arrangements may include compressed work weeks, flexible hours within core business hours, or telework options for specific duties. Remote work capabilities depend on your security clearance level, access to classified information systems, and the sensitivity of the compliance files you handle. Interested candidates should discuss flexible work possibilities with their hiring manager during the recruitment process or after joining DND, as arrangements are negotiated on a case-by-case basis within departmental guidelines and operational requirements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
