🚧 Career Mom Chronicles is expanding — new resources are coming soon! Some sections may be in progress.
Government of Canada Development Programs
Open to the Public
Some federal departments actually train you on the job.
If you’re a student, new grad, or looking for a career change, these programs offer paid rotations, mentorship, and formal learning that lead to permanent roles.
💡Tip: Always apply through the official Canada.ca or GC Jobs links. I keep this page updated, but program intake windows open/close throughout the year.
Department of National Defence (DND)
Policy Officer Recruitment Program
✔️ 3-year rotations + training for future policy officers
✔️ For new grads interested in policy/defence
Official link: Visit program page
Materiel Acquisition & Support Officer Development Program
✔️ Rotations in procurement, logistics, engineering (materiel)
✔️ For grads in supply chain, business, engineering
Official link: Visit program page
Defence Intelligence Officer Recruitment Program
✔️ 3-year stream building intelligence analysis skills
✔️ For candidates interested in national security/intel
Official link: Visit program page
Public Services & Procurement Canada (PSPC)
Intern Officer Development Program (Procurement)
✔️ 3-year pathway: PG-01 → procurement professional
✔️ On-the-job rotations + formal training
Official link: Visit program page
Statistics Canada (StatCan)
Several Programs:
- Finance
- Economics/Social Science
- Human Resources
- Internal Audit
✔️ Structured rotations + mentorship
✔️ Designed for students & new grads
Official link: Visit program page
Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
Officer Trainee Developmental Program
✔️ Distance learning → 14 weeks at CBSA College (Rigaud) → 12–18 months on-the-job development
✔️ Graduates appointed FB-03 Border Services Officer
Official link: Visit program page
HOW TO BOOST YOUR CHANCES
🧻Tailor your resume to the Statement of Merit Criteria (keywords matter).
☑️Apply early and track intake windows.
✏️Prep examples using the STAR method for assessments/interviews.
👉 Need a head start?
Disclaimer
I work in the federal public service and share these resources to help others navigate government career opportunities. This page is for educational purposes only and is not an official Government of Canada resource. Always verify details on official Government of Canada websites, as program information may change.
