As a Supervisor - Writing and Editing with the Department of National Defence, you will lead a team of writing and editing professionals who produce clear, accurate, and engaging communications for military and civilian audiences. You are responsible for managing workflow, maintaining quality standards, and ensuring all written products align with DND messaging, brand guidelines, and accessibility requirements. Your work directly supports defence communications, internal messaging, public relations, training materials, and strategic communications across the organization.
In this role, you will oversee the planning, coordination, and delivery of writing and editing projects while mentoring your team members in professional development. You will collaborate with subject matter experts, stakeholders, and other departments to understand communication needs and translate complex information into clear, concise content. Your team may produce a variety of materials including policy documents, briefing notes, social media content, speeches, news releases, web copy, and internal communications.
You will work in a dynamic communications environment where priorities can shift quickly and deadlines are demanding. The role requires strong leadership skills, excellent written and verbal communication, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining quality and team morale.
Key Responsibilities
Coordinate and oversee daily writing and editing operations, Assign work, monitor progress, and provide guidance to team members, Review work products for quality and compliance with standards, Contribute to operational planning and process improvement
Required Skills
Writing and editing, Strategic thinking, Media relations, Digital content creation, Stakeholder engagement, Team supervision, Work coordination, Quality control, Staff development
Typical Education
Post-secondary diploma or degree; experience in the relevant technical or functional area
Training
Applicants typically hold a bachelor's degree in English, Communications, Journalism, or a related discipline. Professional experience in writing, editing, and communications is essential, with preference given to candidates with at least 2-3 years of supervisory or team leadership experience in a communications or writing environment.
While formal certification in editing (such as through the Editors' Association of Canada) is not required, it is valued. Government of Canada employees have access to professional development opportunities including writing workshops, leadership training, project management courses, and specialized communications training. Many supervisors pursue credentials in digital communications, social media strategy, and accessibility standards (WCAG, Plain Language) to advance their expertise. Ongoing training in DND-specific communications protocols, security requirements, and defence terminology is provided.
Entry Plans
Entry into this supervisor-level role typically occurs through one of several paths. The most common route is internal promotion, where experienced Writing and Editing professionals (at the intermediate level) apply for supervisor competitions within DND or the broader Public Service. External candidates may enter through open competitions advertised on the Public Service Commission (PSC) website or through Government of Canada Jobs.
Candidates may also transition laterally from other communications roles, such as Communications Advisors or Policy Analysts with strong writing backgrounds, if they meet the required qualifications and supervisory experience. Some candidates enter the Public Service at a lower writing level through student or early-career programs and advance to supervisor positions over time. Competitions for supervisor roles typically include a written assessment, technical interview, and competency-based interview evaluating leadership, communication, and strategic thinking abilities.
Part-Time Options
This supervisor role is typically offered on a full-time basis; however, flexible work arrangements may be available depending on operational requirements and DND policy. Remote work options have become more common in federal communications roles, particularly for work involving writing, editing, and coordination that does not require daily on-site presence. Telework arrangements are often negotiated on a case-by-case basis and depend on team needs and supervisor approval.
Part-time opportunities at the supervisor level are limited but may exist in specific circumstances. Compressed work weeks and flexible start/end times are sometimes available to support work-life balance. All flexible arrangements must be discussed with management and are subject to operational requirements and collective agreement provisions. DND encourages employees to explore flexible work options with their managers during the hiring process or once employed.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
