As a Tile Installer with the Department of National Defence, you will be responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining tile surfaces in military facilities across Canada. This includes ceramic, porcelain, glass, and natural stone tiles used in bathrooms, kitchens, common areas, and specialized military installations. You will work from detailed blueprints and specifications, ensuring all installations meet building codes, safety standards, and DND facility requirements.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include measuring and cutting tiles to fit specific spaces, preparing surfaces using mortar and adhesives, grouting tile joints, and performing quality inspections to ensure a professional finish. You may work on both new construction projects and renovation or maintenance tasks in existing facilities. This role requires attention to detail, physical stamina, and the ability to work safely at heights or in confined spaces.
You will work as part of a construction or maintenance team, collaborating with other trades professionals, supervisors, and project managers. Most positions are based at military installations or worksites across Canada, with work schedules that may include standard daytime hours or shift work depending on project timelines and facility needs.
Key Responsibilities
Perform masonry 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 qualify for this position, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of a recognized tile installer apprenticeship program, usually lasting 3-4 years. Some provinces offer formal training through trade schools or community colleges, followed by on-the-job apprenticeship hours.
Professional certification through your provincial trades organization is required or strongly preferred. This includes passing the interprovincial Red Seal examination, which allows you to work across Canada. Certifications in specialized areas such as natural stone installation or waterproofing may enhance your qualifications.
Once hired by DND, you will receive facility-specific orientation and safety training covering military workplace requirements, emergency procedures, and equipment operation. Ongoing professional development is available through training in new tile materials, installation techniques, safety innovations, and leadership skills for advancement to supervisory roles.
Entry Plans
Entry to this position typically occurs through advertised competitions by DND's Human Resources and Labour Relations team. These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. You may enter through several pathways:
Direct competition: Apply when a Tile Installer position is posted for a specific DND location or region. You will be assessed on your trade qualifications, certifications, work experience, and ability to meet security clearance requirements.
Trades apprenticeship programs: DND occasionally offers apprenticeship opportunities for individuals entering the trade. These combine classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training at military facilities.
Lateral movement: If you are already employed in the federal Public Service in another trades position, you may be eligible to apply for internal competitions or transfer opportunities.
Student and youth programs: Graduates of recognized tile installer trade programs may be eligible for student bridging programs that lead to permanent employment.
All candidates must obtain a security clearance appropriate to the facility and position level, which is a standard requirement for DND civilian employment.
Part-Time Options
Full-time permanent positions are the standard for Tile Installer roles at DND. However, there are limited opportunities for part-time or casual employment during peak maintenance and construction seasons or for specific project work.
Remote work is not applicable to this position, as tile installation requires hands-on work at physical worksites. Work schedules are primarily daytime hours, though projects may occasionally require early starts, evening work, or weekend shifts depending on facility operations and project deadlines.
Flexible scheduling may be possible in some cases through discussion with your manager and depending on operational needs. DND offers standard federal benefits and leave entitlements for all employees, including vacation, sick leave, and family-related leave, which provide flexibility in managing your work-life balance.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
