Program Lead, Social Services Analyst (Policy, Research and Initiatives Advisor)

POSITION PURPOSE Reporting to the Supervisor, Program Policy and Planning; Newmarket; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A government body in Ontario is seeking an Advisor responsible for providing analytical support to various social services programs. The role includes developing policy strategies, leading project teams, and ensuring compliance with legislation. Candidates should have a degree in Public Policy and at least five years of experience in public policy development. This position offers the opportunity to significantly contribute to the development of innovative social programs.

Qualifications

• Minimum five years of experience in public policy development.
• Knowledge of legislation related to Social Services.
• Demonstrated knowledge of social research and evaluation methods.

Responsibilities

• Develops and implements program policy strategies.
• Leads project teams for corporate priorities.
• Researches and analyzes social, economic, and political environments.

Skills

Public Policy Development

Research and Analysis

Project Management

Policy Interpretation

Education

University Degree in Public Policy or relevant field

Job description

POSITION PURPOSE

Reporting to the Supervisor of Program Policy and Planning, this position is responsible for providing policy and analytical support to the Social Services Branch programs, including Ontario Works Employment Services, Children's Programs (Child Fee Assistance, Children's Community Programs, and Early Intervention Services), and Homelessness Community Programs. The role involves supporting the development of innovative and strategic program policies and plans, researching and analyzing projects, leading outcome-based program development and project teams, developing cross-functional linkages to ensure regional policies and programs align with social service outcomes, and developing strategic responses to address human service needs. Additionally, the position entails interpreting and communicating relevant legislation (e.g., Ontario Works) and policies to staff, providing guidance, training, mentoring, coordinating and supervising staff work, and ensuring a safe working environment.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Develops and implements work plans for program policy and community development strategies, ensuring strong linkages across the Branch with other departments and stakeholders.
2. Develops program policies and implementation strategies for branch-wide and divisional initiatives to meet provincial legislation, regulatory requirements, and regionally mandated programs; provides policy interpretation to staff, clients, and community agencies.
3. Leads cross-functional project teams to develop and implement division, department, and corporate priorities and programs; participates in or leads special projects; interprets legislations and assesses legislative and policy change impacts.
4. Researches, analyzes, and evaluates social, economic, and political environments and policies at local and provincial levels, identifying best practices for inclusion in regional program proposals.
5. Gathers and analyzes data on division and human/housing issues, prepares reports, policy proposals, presentations, and statistical analyses, and monitors data to identify trends and develop strategies.
6. Provides guidance, training, and mentoring; coordinates, assigns, schedules, and reviews staff work.
7. Implements and manages work plans with defined scope, key deliverables, timelines, and deadlines, ensuring strong linkages across the branch and stakeholders.
8. Responds to inquiries and resolves concerns appropriately.
9. Ensures services meet regional customer service standards.

QUALIFICATIONS

• University Degree in Public Policy, Administration, Social Sciences, or a relevant field, or an approved equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum five (5) years of experience in municipal or provincial public policy development, with responsibilities in leading complex projects and policy development.
• Knowledge of legislation related to Social Service responsibilities, such as the Ontario Works Act or Child Care and Early Years Act.
• Knowledge of program delivery operations, services, community served, and client social issues.
• Demonstrated knowledge of social research and evaluation methods, including report and proposal writing.

Additional Information

Employment Type: Advisor

Experience: Years

Vacancy: 1