The post was created in 1978 with the first appointment of Chief Warrant Officer Robert Osside.

CAF CWO is a position created by the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) to assist the CDS in their duties and advise them on all issues relating to non-commissioned members (NCMs).

The CAF CWO holds the substantive rank of Chief Warrant Officer (if Army or Air Force) or Chief Petty Officer 1st class (if Navy).

The rank insignia of the CAF CWO is the coat of arms of Canada in coloured thread, surrounded by a wreath of 20 maple leaves in gold thread, worn on the lower sleeve of the service dress jacket.

The cap badge is the coat of arms of Canada, in full-colour metallic thread.