Training Development Officer

Overview

Training Development Officers in the Canadian Armed Forces provide guidance on systematic training and education. They ensure quality control of training, guide the development and management of training solutions, teach in a variety of school settings, manage learning resources, and conduct human performance research. They analyze operational job performance requirements, identify organizational needs, and propose solutions to performance problems.

Officers typically work in an office setting at a CAF school, unit, base, command, or National Defence Headquarters. Deployment to support operations or missions is also possible. Regular Force officers may be assigned to a base and may relocate, whereas Primary Reserve officers serve part‑time at local units with limited relocation obligations.

• Direct Entry – Requires a Master’s degree in Education and at least three years of full‑time experience as an educational or training consultant.
• Paid Education – A Bachelor’s degree in Education with relevant consultancy experience may lead to on‑the‑job training following Basic Military Officer Qualification.

Regular Officer Training Plan:
Candidates who do not meet entry requirements may be sponsored by the CAF through the Royal Military College System or other Canadian universities. Successful candidates receive full‑time salary, benefits, and vacation in exchange for service.

All candidates begin with Basic Officer Training (12 weeks), covering military knowledge, leadership principles, CAF regulations, weapons handling, and first aid. Optional second‑language training may follow. Training Development Officers complete a five‑month course at Borden, Ontario, then approximately three months of on‑the‑job training at a Canadian base. Specialized skills may be developed through formal courses and graduate education.

Reserve Training Development Officers are available part‑time in the Primary Reserve. Reserve staff typically serve evenings and weekends and may remain in their local units. Pay is 92.8% of regular force rates, and they receive a reasonable benefits package. Reserve TDOs may move to full‑time employment for fixed terms.

• Logistics Officer
• Personnel Selection Officer
• Social Work Officer