Early Resolution Officer

About Us

The Ombudsman is an independent Officer of the Nova Scotia Legislature who has responsibility for overseeing provincial and municipal government organizations. The Office the Ombudsman reviews complaints about provincial government departments, agencies, boards, corporations and commissions, as well as municipalities. This includes attempting resolution and conducting investigations, resulting in findings and recommendations aimed at improving government administration and public policy. The Office handles more than 2,500 complaints per year.

The Office of the Ombudsman is also responsible for assessing and investigating disclosures of wrongdoing under the Public Interest Disclosure of Wrongdoing Act and making a determination on allegations of harassment under the House of Assembly Policy on the Prevention and Resolution of Harassment in the Workplace.

About Our Opportunity

The Early Resolution Officer (ERO) is an integral component to the effective operation of the investigative team which provides independent, impartial, and confidential complaint resolution. The ERO operates within the boundaries of the delegated authority given by the Ombudsman. The ERO is responsible for intake, assessing complaint jurisdiction, referring complainants to available review and appeal mechanisms, identifying matters involving administrative fairness for potential investigation, systemic issues, and conducting Early Resolution investigations. The ERO works with both the complainant and public sector entities involved to encourage resolution and will escalate complaints to their Director, for assignment if they are unable to resolve the matter and where further review and/or investigation is warranted.

The ERO must be knowledgeable about the Ombudsman Act and Regulations, the Public Interest Disclosure of Wrongdoing Act and Regulations, the House of Assembly Policy on the Prevention and Resolution of Harassment in the Workplace, and maintain up-to-date knowledge of government services, legislation, regulations, policies, appeal processes, and procedures of the provincial and municipal governments.

Qualifications and Experience

Applicants must clearly demonstrate in their cover letter and/or resume the following qualifications to be given consideration:

• University degree, or the equivalent in related experience is required. Preference will be given to candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in a social science field (e.g. psychology, social work).
• Demonstrated research and analytical skills, conflict resolution experience, and experience interpreting legislation, regulations, policies, and procedures are also required.
• Candidates must demonstrate a high degree of initiative, sound judgment, and professionalism.
• Must have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both oral and written, and the ability to view matters objectively, thoroughly, and efficiently.
• Knowledge and experience conducting interviews, note taking, and report writing are essential.
• Ability to interact with people of diverse backgrounds and life experiences.
• Experience in various computer applications, including Microsoft Office Suite, database, and internet browsers is essential.
• Experience with developing and conducting presentations.
• Proficiency in verbal and written communication in French is considered an asset.

The following competencies are required: Conceptual thinking, strategic orientation, outcome focus, initiative, effective interactive communication, partnering and relationship building, intercultural & diversity proficiency,

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Equivalency

An equivalent combination of training, education and experience will be considered. Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application. 

Benefits

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.

Working Conditions

Based in Halifax. Work is conducted predominantly in an office environment but could include external locations such as correctional facilities and adult/youth residential and secure care facilities. 

Additional Information

This is an Order in Council appointment under the Ombudsman Act. Such appointments are to be paid at rates of pay and receive benefits equivalent to civil service classifications. 

What We Offer

• Career development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career
• Engaging workplace: our employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in, we have forward-thinking policies and strategies
• Countless career paths
• A Dynamic, client-focused office environment where service excellence and teamwork are our focus.