As a Workplace Well-being Advisor with the Department of National Defence, you will play a vital role in promoting the physical, mental, and social health of our civilian workforce. You will develop, implement, and evaluate workplace well-being initiatives and programs that support employee engagement, resilience, and overall quality of life. This position bridges human resources management with occupational health and wellness, making you a key contributor to building a healthier, more supportive work environment across DND.
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include assessing workplace wellness needs, designing targeted interventions, coordinating with internal and external wellness partners, and measuring program effectiveness. You may organize health promotion activities, provide guidance on stress management and mental health resources, support accommodation and return-to-work initiatives, and collaborate with managers to address workplace wellness challenges. You will gather feedback from employees, analyze wellness trends, and recommend evidence-based improvements to organizational policies and practices.
You will work in a diverse, mission-focused environment where your contributions directly impact the well-being of military and civilian personnel. This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people's lives while supporting DND's operational readiness through a healthier workforce.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver workplace well-being 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 become a Workplace Well-being Advisor, you typically need a bachelor's degree in human resources, psychology, public health, occupational health and safety, social work, or a related discipline. Some positions may accept a diploma combined with relevant work experience in HR, health promotion, or wellness coordination.
Valuable certifications include the Canadian Association of Workplace Well-being Professional (CAWWP) designation, the Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP) credential, wellness coaching certifications, or occupational health and safety qualifications. First Aid and CPR certification is often an asset.
Once hired in the Public Service, you will have access to ongoing professional development through the DND Learning Portal, the Canada School of Public Service, and departmental training programs. Many advisors pursue additional certifications in mental health first aid, change management, or organizational development to advance their expertise and career prospects.
Entry Plans
There are several pathways to enter this career with the Department of National Defence:
**Job Competitions**: DND regularly posts Workplace Well-being Advisor positions through open competitions. These are advertised on the Government of Canada's official job board (canada.ca/jobs). Competitions are merit-based and typically require submitting an application and participating in interviews or assessments.
**Public Service Pools**: HR recruitment pools may include pre-qualified candidates for workplace well-being roles, allowing DND to fill positions more quickly when vacancies arise.
**Lateral Moves**: If you are already employed in the federal Public Service in a related field (such as HR, occupational health and safety, or employee services), you may be able to transition into a Workplace Well-being Advisor position through an internal staffing process.
**Student and Early Career Programs**: DND participates in federal student recruitment programs such as the Student Work Placement Program and the Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign. These provide pathways for recent graduates to gain experience and move into permanent positions.
**Bridging from Other Roles**: Employees in administrative, HR support, or health services positions within DND may develop their qualifications and transition into this professional-level role through internal development and competition.
Part-Time Options
Workplace Well-being Advisor positions are typically full-time. However, the Public Service offers flexible work arrangements in most cases.
**Flexible Work Options**: Depending on operational needs and management approval, many advisors work flexible schedules, allowing you to adjust start and end times while maintaining core hours. Some roles permit compressed work weeks (such as four 10-hour days) to improve work-life balance.
**Remote and Hybrid Work**: Remote work is increasingly available for administrative and program coordination tasks. However, given the nature of wellness advising—which often involves in-person interactions, conducting focus groups, and organizing wellness events—you may be expected to spend time at DND offices and work locations. Many positions offer a hybrid arrangement combining office and remote work.
**Part-Time Opportunities**: While full-time positions are standard, occasional part-time or term-based opportunities may be available, particularly for specific projects or in support roles within workplace well-being units.
Federal Public Service employees also benefit from leave provisions, including annual vacation, sick leave, and family-related leaves, supporting overall flexibility and work-life integration.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
