As a Veterinarian in the Department of National Defence, you will provide specialized veterinary medical care and health management services in support of military operations and defence capabilities. Your work encompasses clinical animal care, preventive medicine, disease diagnosis and treatment, and health risk assessment across various defence and security contexts. You will apply advanced medical knowledge and diagnostic skills in dynamic, sometimes challenging operational environments.
Veterinarians in DND work with a diverse range of animals and situations, including military working animals, research animals, food safety inspections, and disease surveillance programs. Your responsibilities include conducting medical examinations, prescribing treatments, performing surgical procedures, maintaining detailed medical records, and providing consultation to military personnel and other government departments. You will collaborate with veterinary technicians, medical officers, and other health professionals to ensure the health and welfare of animals under defence care.
You will work in various settings including veterinary clinics, field operations, laboratories, and administrative offices. The role requires strong clinical judgment, the ability to work under pressure, and commitment to animal welfare standards and professional ethics. Your contributions directly support operational readiness and defence mission success.
Key Responsibilities
Provide veterinary services services to clients and patients, Assess needs and develop treatment or service plans, Maintain accurate clinical and case records, Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver care
Required Skills
Clinical skills, Patient/client assessment, Empathy and communication, Record-keeping, Interdisciplinary collaboration, Technical proficiency, Attention to detail, Collaboration, Continuous learning
Typical Education
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify as a Veterinarian with DND, you must hold a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree or equivalent from a recognized veterinary school accredited by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) or equivalent international body. You must be licensed to practice veterinary medicine in a Canadian province or territory. Some positions may require or prefer additional certifications in specialized areas such as military veterinary medicine, surgery, diagnostic imaging, or laboratory animal medicine.
Professional development opportunities are available through DND, including specialized training in military veterinary operations, advanced clinical skills, and leadership programs for those advancing to supervisory roles. You are encouraged to maintain professional development through continuing education, conference attendance, and membership in professional organizations such as the CVMA and relevant specialty colleges. DND supports veterinarians in obtaining additional qualifications and certifications relevant to defence operations and animal health management.
Entry Plans
Entry into the Veterinarian position with DND typically occurs through open staffing competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's job portal (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who meet the educational and licensing requirements. Depending on demand and strategic initiatives, DND may also use lateral recruitment from other federal departments or private sector veterinary practices.
Students nearing completion of veterinary medicine programs may be considered for student bridging or co-op placements that can lead to permanent positions upon graduation and licensing. DND may also conduct targeted recruitment campaigns for specific veterinary specializations or operational needs. Lateral moves from other government departments with similar veterinary roles are possible, and prior military experience may be advantageous depending on the specific position.
The appointment process includes verification of professional credentials, licensing status, security clearance screening, and medical fitness assessment in accordance with DND and Treasury Board requirements.
Part-Time Options
Part-time employment opportunities for Veterinarians at DND are limited due to the nature of clinical and operational requirements; however, flexible work arrangements may be negotiated in some administrative or consulting roles. Remote work options are typically available for non-clinical administrative duties, policy development, and consultation work, though clinical positions require on-site presence for animal care responsibilities.
Work schedules may vary depending on assignment. Those in operational or clinic-based roles may be required to work shifts, weekends, or on-call hours to ensure continuous animal care coverage. Job sharing arrangements are rarely available for clinical positions but may be considered for some specialized or administrative roles. Interested candidates should inquire about specific flexibility options during the recruitment process, as availability depends on operational needs, facility requirements, and the specific position.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
