Program Specialist, Policing Initiatives (Program Admin Officer 3)

About Us

The Public Safety and Security Division (PSSD) is committed to supporting the safety and security of Nova Scotians through collaboration with communities and partners across the province and country. We deliver a wide range of programs, supports, and services in accordance with provincial and federal legislation and are committed to ensuring services are accessible, equitable, and representative of the communities we serve.

The Public Safety and Security Division is comprised of the following units:

Policing Strategies and Governance
Crime Prevention and Indigenous Policing
Safety and Security Investigations Unit
Provincial Firearms Program
Security Programs Office
Service Dog Program
Public Safety Audit Function
Police Modernization

For more information on the Department of Justice Public Safety and Security Division, please visit:
https://novascotia.ca/just/public_safety

About Our Opportunity

An exciting opportunity exists to join the Department of Justice within the Public Safety and Security Division, Policing Strategies and Governance Section. 

The Policing Strategies and Governance Section is committed to supporting policing services that are responsive, effective, and reflective of the needs of both the policing community and the public. We recognize that community safety is a shared responsibility and maintain strong partnerships with stakeholders across the province, and throughout Canada. 

We are a collaborative and results-driven team that leads the creation of policing standards, manages RCMP and First Nations policing contracts, advances community-based crime prevention initiatives, coordinates training for public safety agencies, and supports the development and evaluation of public safety policies and legislation.

Primary Accountabilities

Reporting to the Project Manager, Public Safety and Security Division, as the Program Specialist, Policing Initiatives you will:

• Conduct research, analyze, and synthesize information from internal and external sources to support evidence-based decision-making.
• Prepare briefing materials and reports, including briefing notes, jurisdictional scans, presentations, and correspondence for senior management and executive leadership.
• Support the planning and implementation of public safety programs and initiatives, including coordination of contracts and agreements, development of implementation plans, monitoring progress to ensure timely and effective delivery, and recommending improvements.
• Prepare and coordinate correspondence and communications materials, including responses to inquiries from stakeholders and the public, and supporting the development of internal and external communications.
• Collaborate with Finance staff to support budget monitoring and forecasting activities, including tracking expenditures, identifying variances, and contributing to financial reporting.
• Manage relationships with justice partners and service providers and participating on working groups and committees.
• Leverage skills and knowledge to supervise and/or provide guidance to junior employees and/or support staff.
  
  

Qualifications and Experience

To be considered for this opportunity, you have completed a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline plus five years of related experience in policy/program planning and development, and/or public safety. An equivalent combination of training and experience will be considered.

In addition, you have proficiency and demonstrated capabilities in the following:

Interpersonal skills & relationship building – you have experience working with a wide range of partners and can develop contacts and relationships within an organization to achieve organizational goals.
Communication skills – you can communicate effectively with a range of audiences through written materials (such as briefing notes & reports) and presentations.
Analytical thinking – you have strong research and analysis skills and can synthesize and present information to inform recommendations and decision making.
Innovation & Problem-solving - you can identify issues and develop creative and practical solutions to improve outcomes.
Intercultural and Diversity Proficiency – you acknowledge and understand systemic barriers and seek out diverse perspectives.
Manages themselves & others – you can work independently, set priorities and manage deadlines while balancing multiple tasks. Additionally, you can use your knowledge to provide guidance to others.
Resilience and Adaptability – you can work in a fact paced environment and remain flexible in the face of change or shifting priorities. 

The following are considered assets: experience with engagement processes, experience with program development/management, experience working with law enforcement, knowledge of public safety processes. 

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

We recognize equivalent contributions of training, education and experience, providing opportunities for individuals with diverse backgrounds to contribute their skills and expertise. Equivalencies include, but are not limited to:

- A related master’s degree and three (3) years of related experience in policy/program planning and development
- A related 2-year certificate/diploma and seven (7) years of related experience in policy/program planning and development

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

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.

Working Conditions

Most of your time is spent in a comfortable office setting and may involve sitting for extended periods.

Travel throughout the province may be required.

Your normal work week is 35 hours. You may be required to work overtime on occasion.

Additional Information

This competition is seeking to fill two (2) permanent full-time employment opportunities, located in Halifax, NS.

You will be required to consent to an enhanced background check, with the possibility of a federal security clearance

A valid driver’s licence is required.

What We Offer

• Career development with access to guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training
• An engaging and inclusive workplace where employees feel valued and supported
• Opportunities to contribute to high‑impact public safety and policing modernization initiatives
• A collaborative, client‑focused environment that values service excellence