Roofers are skilled trade professionals responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing roofing systems on Department of National Defence (DND) buildings and facilities across Canada. As a Roofer, you will work on a variety of roofing materials and systems, including asphalt shingles, metal roofing, membrane systems, and specialized military facility coverings. Your work is essential to protecting DND infrastructure from weather damage and maintaining the integrity of our defence establishments.
Your daily responsibilities include measuring and cutting roofing materials, applying waterproofing agents and adhesives, installing flashing and ventilation systems, and conducting safety inspections. You will work both independently and as part of a team, collaborating with other trades professionals, supervisors, and engineers. Your expertise directly contributes to facility readiness and the safety of personnel working in DND buildings.
Roofers in the DND work in diverse environments across military bases, training centres, and administrative facilities. The work is physically demanding and often takes place at heights, requiring strong safety awareness and adherence to strict protocols. You may work indoors on roofs with protective coverings or outdoors exposed to weather conditions. Travel to different DND locations may be required depending on project demands and facility maintenance schedules.
Key Responsibilities
Perform general labour tasks maintaining government facilities and assets, Operate tools, equipment, and machinery safely, Follow technical specifications and safety procedures, Maintain records of work performed and materials used
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To become a Roofer with DND, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Many candidates complete a formal apprenticeship program or trade certification in roofing, which is available through provincial vocational schools and community colleges across Canada. These programs usually span 3-4 years and combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training.
Key certifications and qualifications include a valid driver's license, WorkSafeBC or equivalent provincial safety certification, and fall protection/working at heights certification. Some positions may require specific certifications such as WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) training and CPR/First Aid certification. Experience with different roofing materials and systems, including asphalt, metal, and membrane roofing, is highly valued.
Once hired with DND, you will have access to ongoing professional development opportunities through Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC) training programs, specialized roofing system courses, and advancement toward Red Seal certification. DND supports continuous learning to keep your skills current with evolving roofing technologies and safety standards. You may also pursue supervisory or specialized technical certifications as your career progresses.
Entry Plans
The Government of Canada Public Service uses several pathways to recruit Roofers to DND:
**Open Competitions:** DND regularly posts Roofer positions through Public Service Commission (PSC) competitions. These are advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank and internal DND recruitment channels. Competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who meet the stated qualifications.
**Skilled Trades Recruitment:** DND participates in targeted recruitment campaigns for skilled trades, including roofing positions. These campaigns may offer streamlined application processes for candidates with recognized certifications and apprenticeships.
**Internal Mobility:** Current DND employees may transfer into Roofer positions through internal job competitions, which may offer additional advantages for those already familiar with military workplace culture and security requirements.
**Apprenticeship Programs:** Some DND locations offer apprenticeship or on-the-job training programs that can lead to permanent positions upon successful completion.
All candidates must obtain a Canadian Armed Forces Reliability Check or Secret security clearance depending on the facility and position level. This is a standard requirement for civilian employees working on defence establishments.
Part-Time Options
Roofer positions with DND are typically offered as full-time, permanent positions due to the nature of roofing work and project continuity requirements. However, some flexibility may be available depending on the specific location and project needs.
**Flexible Work Options:** While roofing work requires physical presence on-site, some scheduling flexibility may be negotiated for maintenance planning, inspections, or administrative tasks. Seasonal variations in roofing work may create natural periods of adjusted schedules.
**Remote Work:** Given the hands-on, safety-critical nature of roofing, remote work is not applicable to this position. Your work must be performed on-site at DND facilities.
**Shift Work:** Roofing projects may occasionally require early morning starts or adjusted schedules to accommodate weather conditions, facility operations, or project deadlines. You should be prepared for potential overtime during major maintenance or emergency repairs.
We encourage you to discuss specific scheduling needs with the hiring manager during the recruitment process, as accommodations may be available in certain circumstances within operational constraints.
