As a Steward with the Department of National Defence, you will provide essential hospitality and support services that keep our operations running smoothly. Stewards are responsible for maintaining clean, safe, and welcoming environments in accommodation facilities, dining areas, and other operational spaces across DND installations. Your work directly supports the well-being and readiness of Canadian Armed Forces members and civilian employees.
In this role, you will perform a variety of duties including cleaning and maintaining facilities, setting up spaces for events or accommodations, managing inventory, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. You will work as part of a team in a fast-paced environment where attention to detail and reliability are essential. Stewards work in diverse settings—from barracks and mess halls to training facilities and administrative buildings—making each day dynamic and varied.
This is an ideal position for individuals who take pride in their work, have strong organizational skills, and are committed to supporting Canada's defence mission. You will work regular hours with opportunities for both full-time and part-time employment, depending on operational needs and your personal circumstances.
Key Responsibilities
Perform hospitality duties in support of departmental operations, Prepare correspondence, reports, and administrative documents, Coordinate schedules, meetings, and logistics, Maintain records and filing systems
Required Skills
Organizational skills, Written and oral communication, MS Office proficiency, Time management, Attention to detail, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. While specific certifications are not always mandatory, training in food handling, health and safety, or hospitality services is an asset. The Government of Canada provides on-the-job training for new Stewards, covering facility-specific procedures, safety protocols, and operational requirements. Many employees pursue professional development through workplace safety certifications, advanced cleaning techniques, and hospitality management courses. DND also supports continuous learning through internal training programs and may provide opportunities to advance into supervisory or specialized hospitality roles with additional experience and education.
Entry Plans
Entry into the Steward classification typically occurs through Public Service and Staffing Act (PSSA) competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's Job Bank and DND recruitment pages. Competitions may be open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and those with valid work authorization. The Government of Canada also maintains recruitment pools for hospitality support occupations, allowing qualified candidates to be considered for multiple positions. Student summer employment programs and apprenticeships may provide pathways for younger candidates. Lateral moves from similar roles in other federal departments or from the private sector are possible, with experience evaluation on a case-by-case basis. Keep an eye on the DND Civilian Workforce careers website and the Government of Canada Job Bank for current postings.
Part-Time Options
Steward positions frequently offer part-time and flexible scheduling options, particularly given the operational needs of military facilities that may require support services at varying times throughout the day and week. Full-time positions are available, but many DND installations also hire part-time employees to support peak operational periods or provide coverage across multiple shifts. Remote work is not typical for this role due to the hands-on, facility-based nature of the work. However, flexible scheduling arrangements may be negotiated with your manager based on operational requirements and personal circumstances. Casual and term-based contracts are also common pathways into permanent full-time positions.
