Urban Planners in the Department of National Defence work on the strategic planning and development of defence infrastructure, military installations, and related civilian spaces. You will apply urban planning principles to support DND's real estate portfolio, ensuring that military bases and facilities meet current and future operational needs while considering community integration, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. Your work directly supports the Canadian Armed Forces' ability to operate effectively across Canada and internationally.
As an Urban Planner, you will develop land use plans, conduct feasibility studies, coordinate with stakeholders, and ensure compliance with federal, provincial, and municipal regulations. You will collaborate with engineers, architects, environmental specialists, and military personnel to create comprehensive plans that balance operational requirements with public interest. Your responsibilities include analyzing demographic trends, assessing infrastructure capacity, and recommending solutions for growth, revitalization, or optimization of defence properties.
You will work in a dynamic environment that combines technical analysis with stakeholder engagement. While much of your work involves research, data analysis, and planning documentation, you will also participate in site visits, public consultations, and interdisciplinary meetings. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to long-term strategic initiatives that shape the physical footprint of Canada's defence infrastructure.
Key Responsibilities
Perform architecture analysis, design, and review, Prepare technical specifications and engineering documents, Conduct inspections, assessments, and quality reviews, Ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards
Required Skills
Technical analysis, Design and drafting tools (CAD), Project management, Regulatory knowledge, Problem-solving, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify as an Urban Planner with DND, you typically need a bachelor's degree in urban planning, geography, civil engineering, architecture, or a related discipline from a recognized institution. Many successful candidates hold a Master's degree in Urban Planning or Urban Design, which provides advanced expertise in planning theory, policy analysis, and project management.
Professional certification through the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP) is highly valued and demonstrates commitment to the profession. While not always required at entry level, working toward or maintaining CIP membership and the Registered Planner (RP) designation can enhance your career progression and credibility.
Ongoing professional development is encouraged and supported. DND offers training in federal procurement, project management, environmental assessment processes, and specialized software used in planning and design. You may also access courses in Indigenous consultation, climate resilience, and defence-specific operational planning to deepen your expertise in the government context.
Entry Plans
You can enter the Urban Planner career stream in DND through several pathways. The most common route is through open recruitment competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's Job Bank and the DND Civilian Recruitment website. These competitions are typically open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents and may be advertised at various classification levels depending on experience.
If you are already working in the federal Public Service, you may apply for internal competitions or use lateral appointment processes to move into an Urban Planner position. DND also participates in recruitment pools and inventory lists that allow qualified candidates to be considered for positions as they become available.
Students and recent graduates should explore the Federal Student Work Program and post-secondary recruitment initiatives. Some positions may be designated for Persons with Disabilities, Indigenous peoples, or other designated groups as part of equity-based recruitment efforts. Networking with DND's Real Property and Infrastructure teams and attending recruitment events can help you learn about upcoming opportunities.
Part-Time Options
Part-time opportunities for Urban Planners at DND are available but less common than full-time positions. Most planning roles require full-time commitment due to the continuity needed for project management, stakeholder coordination, and strategic planning initiatives.
Flexible work arrangements, including hybrid and remote work options, have become more prevalent in planning roles. Depending on your specific team and project requirements, you may have the ability to work from home for analytical and research tasks, while maintaining regular presence at your office location or on-site for consultations and team meetings.
Job sharing and compressed work weeks may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis, subject to operational requirements and management approval. We encourage prospective candidates to discuss flexible work arrangements during the recruitment process or with their manager once hired, as accommodations are often possible within DND's operational framework.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
