As a Values and Ethics Policy Advisor, you'll help shape how the Department of National Defence applies ethical principles and values across all operations and decisions. You'll develop, analyze, and recommend policies that promote integrity, accountability, and ethical conduct throughout the organization. Working within the Human Resources Management function, you'll serve as a trusted advisor to senior leaders and managers, ensuring that DND policies and practices align with government values and professional standards.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include researching ethical issues, drafting policy guidance, conducting consultations with stakeholders, and monitoring compliance with values and ethics frameworks. You'll identify emerging ethical concerns, assess their impact on the organization, and propose solutions that balance institutional needs with individual rights. You may also provide advice on specific cases, develop training materials, and contribute to creating a workplace culture that values integrity and responsible decision-making.
You'll work in a collaborative environment alongside HR professionals, legal advisors, senior management, and other policy teams. Your role requires strong analytical skills, sound judgment, and the ability to communicate complex ethical concepts clearly to diverse audiences. This position offers meaningful work that directly influences organizational culture and contributes to public trust in Canada's defence institution.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver values and ethics services to managers and employees, Advise on HR policies, procedures, and best practices, Process HR transactions and maintain accurate records, Support organizational HR initiatives and programs
Required Skills
HR policy interpretation, Interpersonal skills, Staffing and classification, Conflict resolution, Labour relations knowledge, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To enter this career, you'll typically need a bachelor's degree in public administration, business administration, law, political science, ethics, or a related discipline. Many successful candidates hold a master's degree in public administration (MPA), business administration, public policy, or ethics.
While not always mandatory, professional certifications can strengthen your candidacy. Consider pursuing credentials such as the Certified Government Compliance Professional (CGCP) designation or ethics-focused certifications offered by professional associations. Some candidates benefit from mediation or conflict resolution training.
Once hired, you'll have access to professional development opportunities including specialized training in government policy development, values and ethics frameworks, the Treasury Board Policy Suite, and conflict resolution. DND also supports participation in professional associations and conferences. You may pursue advanced certifications relevant to organizational ethics, risk management, or public sector governance throughout your career.
Entry Plans
Most Values and Ethics Policy Advisor positions are filled through public service staffing competitions open to Canadian citizens. You can find current opportunities on the Government of Canada's official job board (jobs.gc.ca) and the DND careers website.
Entry typically occurs at the AS-02 (Administrative Services) or EC-02 (Economics and Social Science Services) classification levels, depending on qualifications and experience. Lateral moves from other federal departments are common, as candidates with HR policy, ethics, or compliance experience in other organizations bring valuable perspective.
The Public Service Commission (PSC) maintains inventory lists of qualified candidates for various HR and policy positions. If you're already in the federal public service, you may be able to apply through internal competitions or transition programs. Student programs like the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) and Interchange Canada can provide entry points. Some candidates start in related administrative or HR roles and advance to policy positions as they gain experience.
Competitions typically assess competencies including analytical thinking, policy writing, consultation and collaboration, ethical judgment, and knowledge of government governance frameworks.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are often available for Values and Ethics Policy Advisor roles, depending on operational needs and departmental policy. Many positions offer flexibility in work hours and location, particularly when deadlines aren't immediate.
Remote work options have expanded across the federal government. DND civilian employees may be able to work from home on a hybrid basis (typically 2-3 days per week in the office), though this depends on your specific workload and supervisor's requirements. Some advisory and research work translates well to remote work, though in-person attendance may be needed for consultations, meetings with senior leadership, and collaborative policy development sessions.
Job-sharing and compressed work weeks are sometimes possible. To explore these arrangements, discuss options directly with the hiring manager or your supervisor. Availability depends on the classification level, team structure, and current departmental priorities. Part-time students and career-returners should inquire during the application process about what accommodations may be available for their specific situation.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
