As a Supply Chain Clerk with the Department of National Defence, you will play a vital role in managing inventory, purchasing, and logistics operations that support Canadian Armed Forces operations and defence initiatives across Canada. You will be responsible for processing purchase orders, maintaining accurate inventory records, coordinating with suppliers, and ensuring materials are available when and where they're needed. Your work directly contributes to the operational readiness of the CAF and supports military personnel in the field.
In this role, you will handle a variety of supply chain tasks in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Your day-to-day responsibilities include receiving and documenting shipments, managing stock levels, processing requisitions, maintaining filing systems, and communicating with internal departments and external vendors. You may also assist with warehouse operations, conduct inventory counts, and help resolve supply issues that arise. Attention to detail and strong organizational skills are essential, as accuracy in record-keeping directly impacts military operations and budget management.
You will work as part of a supply chain team at a DND facility, typically in a warehouse, storage, or administrative office environment. The work is structured around standard business hours, though shifts may vary depending on operational needs. You'll interact regularly with military personnel, civilian colleagues, and external suppliers, making communication and customer service skills important to your success.
Key Responsibilities
Perform general supply chain management functions per GC procurement policies, Process requisitions, contracts, and procurement documents, Manage vendor relationships and monitor contract performance, Maintain asset and inventory records
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To become a Supply Chain Clerk with DND, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some positions may require completion of secondary school with courses in mathematics and English. While not always mandatory, relevant post-secondary education such as a diploma in supply chain management, business administration, or logistics can strengthen your application and improve advancement opportunities.
Once hired, you will receive on-the-job training specific to DND systems, procedures, and supply chain software used within the department. Training covers inventory management systems, purchasing protocols, military supply regulations, and DND-specific documentation requirements. You may have opportunities to pursue professional certifications such as the Canadian Professional Logistics Institute (CPLI) designation or pursue further education in supply chain and procurement management. DND supports continuous learning through tuition assistance programs and professional development opportunities as you advance in your career.
Entry Plans
You can enter the Supply Chain Clerk position through several pathways within the federal Public Service. The primary method is through a competitive staffing process advertised on the Public Service Commission (PSC) website, where you submit an application and compete against other candidates. DND also maintains staffing pools for supply chain positions, which may allow faster hiring if you've previously been screened and assessed.
Student programs such as the DND Co-op Program and the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) provide excellent entry points if you're currently studying. These programs allow you to gain experience while still in school and may lead to permanent employment opportunities. If you're already working in the federal Public Service in a different role, you can apply for lateral moves to Supply Chain Clerk positions through internal competitions or staffing processes. Some positions may also be filled through non-advertised processes if you're a current federal employee. Specific requirements vary by location and hiring cycle, so monitoring the PSC job board and DND career pages is recommended.
Part-Time Options
Supply Chain Clerk positions at DND are typically full-time permanent roles, though part-time and casual opportunities may be available depending on operational needs and facility requirements. Part-time positions generally operate on a scheduled basis with predictable hours, making them suitable for those balancing other commitments.
Remote work options are limited for Supply Chain Clerk roles, as many responsibilities require physical presence in warehouses, storage facilities, or administrative offices to handle inventory, receive shipments, and maintain records. However, some administrative components of the role may be performed remotely depending on your supervisor's approval and departmental policies. Flexible work arrangements such as adjusted start and end times may be negotiable with your manager based on operational requirements. DND is committed to supporting work-life balance where operational needs permit, so discussing flexible options with your hiring manager is recommended during the recruitment process.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
