As a Training Course Instructor with the Department of National Defence, you will design, develop, and deliver effective training programs to military and civilian personnel. You will be responsible for creating engaging learning experiences that meet operational and professional development needs across the Canadian Armed Forces and DND. Your work will directly support the readiness and capability of our personnel by ensuring they have the knowledge and skills required to perform their duties effectively.
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include preparing course materials, delivering instruction through various methods (classroom, online, hands-on), assessing student learning, and evaluating course effectiveness. You will work collaboratively with subject matter experts, instructional designers, and other training professionals to continuously improve curriculum and adapt to changing operational requirements. You may also mentor junior instructors and contribute to the professional development of the training community.
Training Course Instructors work in diverse environments across Canada and potentially abroad, including training establishments, operational units, and virtual learning platforms. You will interact regularly with military personnel at various ranks and civilian employees, requiring excellent communication skills and the ability to adapt your teaching approach to different audiences and learning needs.
Key Responsibilities
Perform non-academic teaching and training duties within the education function, Prepare reports and documentation as required, Collaborate with team members and stakeholders, Maintain records and ensure compliance with relevant policies
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
Most positions require a secondary school diploma or equivalent as a minimum qualification. However, many candidates possess post-secondary credentials such as a college diploma or university degree in their subject matter area or in education-related fields. Professional certifications relevant to your instructional area—such as trade certifications, technical qualifications, or specialized training credentials—are highly valued and often preferred.
Once hired, you will receive training specific to DND instructional standards, adult learning principles, and the use of Defence learning management systems. The Canadian Armed Forces provides ongoing professional development opportunities, including instructor certification programs, advanced instructional techniques courses, and training in emerging educational technologies. Many positions support or require completion of formal training qualifications such as the Canadian Forces Instructor Certification or equivalent civilian credentials. DND encourages continuous learning through access to courses, workshops, and professional development leave to maintain current expertise in your subject matter and instructional methods.
Entry Plans
Training Course Instructor positions are typically filled through open public service competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's Job Bank and DND recruitment websites. Candidates may apply directly to specific postings or enter through the Public Service Commission inventory system where applicable.
Experienced instructors, trainers, or subject matter experts from outside the public service may enter through external competitions. If you are already a public service employee, you may apply for lateral moves into Training Course Instructor positions, and your existing tenure may provide advantages in the selection process.
The Canadian Armed Forces also offers pathways for military personnel transitioning to civilian instructor roles. Some positions may be filled through student employment programs or apprenticeships, allowing you to gain experience and potentially transition to permanent roles. Candidates with prior instructional experience in military, educational, or corporate training environments are typically strong applicants.
Part-Time Options
Part-time opportunities for Training Course Instructors exist, particularly in training establishments with flexible scheduling needs or specialized course delivery. Many DND training facilities offer part-time instructor positions that provide schedule flexibility while supporting operational training requirements.
Remote work options are increasingly available for roles involving online course delivery, instructional design support, or administrative training functions. However, positions requiring in-person classroom instruction or hands-on training typically require on-site presence at training facilities.
Flexibility may also be available for instructors teaching specific courses or seasonal training programs. Compressed work weeks and flexible scheduling can sometimes be negotiated depending on the operational requirements of your training establishment and your position's classification. We encourage applicants to discuss specific scheduling needs with their hiring manager or recruiter during the application process to understand what arrangements may be possible for your position.
