​The Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries (CADSI) is looking for a highly organized and motivated  Administrative Assistant to join our dynamic team in downtown Ottawa.​

Status: Permanent, Full-Time

Salary: $70,000 annually

Application Deadline – ​Before midnight EST on Thursday, February 20th, 2026

Your Mission

The Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries (CADSI) is seeking a mature, experienced, motivated and energetic administrative professional to join a dynamic team at a time of increased global demand for Canadian defence and security capabilities. This is an exciting opportunity to build on your 5 or more years’ experience of working for a trade association, NGO or within the private sector.

The successful candidate will serve as CADSI’s welcoming face with all staff, contractors, suppliers, members, government officials and stakeholders.  The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented, hyper-organized, mature, proactive person and accustomed to working on a team of less than 25 staff.

You will work closely with all CADSI departments, including the Executive Team, Policy & Advocacy, Finance, Events/Operations, Business Development and Membership to assist in a wide variety of administrative projects and tasks.  Ideally, you are outgoing and have a well-crafted presence in office environments.

Core Responsibilities

• The duties and responsibilities of the position are to:
• Managing schedules, coordinating meetings, and setting up appointments to keep workflows organized and meet deadlines
• Handling phone calls, emails, and other correspondence while prioritizing urgent matters and maintaining professional communication
• Maintaining and organizing files, records, and documents in digital and physical formats for easy access and retrieval
• Preparing reports, presentations, and spreadsheets by compiling data and formatting information in a clear, professional manner
• Ordering office supplies, managing inventory levels, and coordinating equipment maintenance to ensure a well-stocked and efficient workspace
• Assisting with data entry and expense tracking by accurately recording financial transactions and reconciling reports
• Liaising with clients, vendors, caterers and internal staff to relay information, schedule appointments, and support business operations
• Ensuring confidentiality and accuracy when handling sensitive information, company records, and financial documents
• Conducting phone, email and outreach campaigns on various subjects.
• Other bespoke duties as assigned.
   

Above all, CADSI values a willingness to learn and adapt. You will have ample opportunity to drive your professional development by exploring new tools and working alongside a fun and collaborative team committed to continuous growth.
 

Qualifications and Experience

CADSI is looking for a motivated, flexible self-starter who:

• Has 5 or more years of experience working in similar environments
• Has extensive knowledge and successful experience in office management systems and procedures
• Has excellent time management skills
• Has impeccable written and oral communication skills, including verbal telephone manners
• Has strong project planning and implementation skills, working in cross-functional teams with effective internal communications, including the ability to work under pressure, managing multiple projects
• Has worked independently and in a small team environment
• Can anticipate the needs of various teams and stakeholders
• Possesses editing and proofreading skills
• Maintains high EQ, discretion and excellent judgement
   

You can set yourself apart from other candidates if you have:

• Knowledge of the Canadian defence or security industries
• Experience in an Association business model
• Experience in a similar role for high-profile leadership
• An ability to communicate in both official languages and additional foreign languages
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and CRM tools

Compensation and Benefits

This is a full-time, permanent position with a competitive compensation package – including a competitive salary ($70,000), vacation, RRSP matching program, health and wellness benefits, transportation credits, and professional development opportunities – which will be discussed during the initial interview. CADSI offers a flexible, hybrid working arrangement with a mix of in-office and remote work, ergonomic workstations, and a supportive team culture that values teamwork and professional growth.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

CADSI is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and accessible workplace. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including women, Indigenous peoples, racialized persons, persons with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

How to Apply

To be considered for this position, please submit one writing sample (e.g. research report, article, newsletters), along with your resume and a cover letter of no more than two pages that addresses the following points:

1. Why you want to work for CADSI.
2. How your background and skills ideally suit you to fulfil this position.
3. Ways in which your work experience demonstrate your results-oriented professional approach.
4. Compensation expectations.

Submissions should be sent by email to [email protected] by no later than midnight EST on Friday, February 20th, 2026. Only applicants who are selected for an interview will be contacted.

About CADSI

Advancing Canada’s Defence and Security future, CADSI represents over 1000 businesses and innovators who build Canada’s defence and security strength. From small manufacturers to global primes, from emerging tech firms to trusted partners in government, our community works toward one shared goal: protecting Canada’s sovereignty and advancing our national interests at home and abroad.

Learn more at www.defenceandsecurity.ca or follow us on LinkedIn.