CSDS Future Opportunity Stream: Entry to Mid-Level Technical Roles

About CSDS

At CSDS, we prioritize people—both within our team and in the communities we serve. Our mission is to redefine how Nova Scotians engage with government by creating accessible, reliable digital solutions centered around user needs.

In today’s tech-driven world, CSDS empowers government departments with essential digital solutions to meet Nova Scotians’ expectations. As a trusted partner across government, we enable departments to fulfill their mandates with secure, user-friendly services. From healthcare and education to public safety, we collaborate to transform how services are designed and delivered.

We don’t just implement technology; we modernize outdated systems and reimagine processes. Our agile, data-driven approach ensures that digital services are both efficient and adaptable to Nova Scotia’s evolving needs.

Joining CSDS means contributing to work that makes a real difference. From providing vital tech support to healthcare professionals to strengthening cybersecurity and developing scalable digital platforms, you’ll play a key role in building a more inclusive, responsive government for Nova Scotians.

Together, we’re setting new standards for digital public service, delivering resilient solutions that meet today’s needs and anticipate tomorrow’s challenges. 

What you are applying for

This posting is a single intake for multiple upcoming job opportunities (Future Opportunities Stream) under the “Computer Services Officer 1-2” job classification across the Department of Cyber Security and Digital Solutions (CSDS).

Instead of applying to several similar postings, you apply once. We then consider you for roles that match your skills as they become available over the coming months. This approach helps us hire thoughtfully while giving candidates flexibility and visibility into upcoming opportunities. 

What this means for you

• One application can lead to more than one opportunity
• You will receive details and questionnaires after you apply
• Being in this stream allows you to be considered for multiple CSO1-2 roles as they arise over the coming months
• You can say yes or no to any specific opportunity we contact you about
  
  

Who this steam is for

Applying to this stream is a great fit for people starting out in technology and digital services, and also for experienced candidates looking for opportunities to grow their career. 

If you have several years of related hands-on experience, we still want to hear from you, even if you education is not in a related field. 

We are looking for people who care about doing good work, supporting colleagues, and contributing to the digital services that Nova Scotians can trust and rely on every day.

You should consider applying if you:

• Have experience and/or education/training in information technology or a related field
• Are interested in entry to intermediate-level technical roles with CSDS
• Want to be considered for multiple opportunities without applying repeatedly
• Care about building digital services that are reliable, secure, and centered on the people who use them
• Work well with others, share knowledge, and approach problems with curiosity and respect
• Value fairness, accessibility, and inclusive ways of working

What “Computer Services Officer 1-2” means

Government uses job classifications to keep pay and minimum qualifications fair and consistent. CSO 1–2 is a standard classification used for many entry to mid-level technical roles. It is not one single job title. It is an umbrella job group that captures a wide variety of technical roles across the public service. 

Minimum qualifications:

Graduation from a recognized Information Technology Program (Post-secondary).

Equivalencies

Relevant training and experience may also be considered equivalent to education requirements. If you do not have an IT program credential, we still encourage you to apply if you have a strong combination of relevant training and hands-on experience in related work. 

Role areas you may be considered for

Openings in the stream may include work in:

• User Support Services
• Digital Collaboration (Microsoft 365 and Power Platform)
• Windows Server Infrastructure
• Database Infrastructure
• Digital Case Management Platform Support
• Application Support and Administration
• Application Development and Sustainment

Note: This stream may also be used to fill other CSO 1-2 roles as new opportunities come up. If we contact you about a role, we will share the specifics and you decide if you want to continue.

Opportunities may include Permanent, Term, Temporary, or Casual roles. The appointment status (‘term’, ‘temporary’ or ‘casual’) is dependent on the start date of the successful candidate in relation to the duration of the assignment.

Equity matters. Some roles may be designated for specific employment equity groups. To be considered for these opportunities, applicants must self‑identify during the application process.

Learn more by reviewing the Nova Scotia Government’s Employment Equity Policy, including details on designated groups.

After you apply: questionnaires (how matching works)

After you apply, we will email you a short set of basic questions to help us understand your experience and interests. 

How it works

• You select the areas you are interested in
• You will receive one or more additional short questionnaires specific to the role area(s) you indicated interest in being considered for. 
  
  

How you will be assessed

We assess candidates based on:

• Meeting the minimum qualifications 
• Relevance and depth of experience to the role outcomes 
• Assets that may be attached to a specific opportunity
  
  

Depending on the role, next steps may include technical assessments and/or a structured interview. You will be provided with more details on the hiring process when invited to participate. 

Security screening may be required for some roles and you will be notified in advance.

Note for current employees: This Future Opportunity Stream is intended for external candidates only. CSDS opportunities under the CSO1-2 job classification will continue to be posted internally, and eligible employees should apply through the internal posting process. 

Benefits

Based on the employment status and union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs.  For information on all our Benefit program offerings, click here: Benefits for government employees.