Senior Policy Analyst (Planning & Development Officer 3)

About Us

At the Department of Community Services (DCS), we are a large and diverse department providing a broad portfolio of programs and services including Child and Family Wellbeing (CFW), Employment Support Services (ESS), Income Assistance (IA), Homelessness and Supportive Housing, and Disability Support Program (DSP).

Through our services, we advocate and help vulnerable Nova Scotians be independent, self-reliant, and secure. We work collaboratively across the province with a strong dedicated network of supports and staff to achieve desired and shared outcomes for all.

About Our Opportunity

Reporting to the Advisor, Intergovernmental Relations, the Senior Policy Analyst works closely with a team of intergovernmental professionals, policy, program, and operational units to provide intergovernmental policy analysis and advice to advance the Departments’ objectives and outcomes.

You will have the opportunity to support several intergovernmental policy initiatives with a variety of partners including the federal government, other provinces and territories, First Nation communities, and Indigenous organizations.

You will be responsible for coordinating intergovernmental policy projects, developing briefing materials and supporting intergovernmental negotiations and agreements as well as the department’s participation in the Ministers responsible for Social Services Forum. As required, you liaise with social service departments from the federal government and other provinces and territories as well central agencies like Intergovernmental Affairs and L’nu Affairs.

Primary Accountabilities

As the Senior Policy Analyst, you have several key responsibilities including:

• Providing intergovernmental policy advice to senior leaders and various intergovernmental committees
• Supporting the development of negotiation positions and intergovernmental agreements by analyzing data and preparing documents
• Assisting in the development of and periodic review of intergovernmental agreements
• Preparing and reviewing Cabinet submissions related to intergovernmental agreements and issues
• Leading inter-jurisdictional research and analysis to support informed decision making with respect to the development of Departmental policies, initiatives, and intergovernmental agreements
• Leading the preparation of briefing materials for intergovernmental deputy ministerial and ministerial meetings
• Leading the preparation of information materials describing major federal initiatives and announcements impacting the department and its clients (example Fall Economic Statement, annual Budgets).
• Demonstrating cultural competence and a sound understanding of issues of equity as it relates to intergovernmental work
• Developing strong working relationships and partnerships that support effective intergovernmental collaboration and agreements
• Leading project work, and representing the department/division/unit on various committees
• Drafting correspondence on behalf of the Premier, Minister and Deputy Minister as requested.

Qualifications and Experience

You have a bachelor’s degree and at least eight (8) years of related experience with policy, research, and analysis; or a related master’s degree and six (6) years experience. Proficiency and demonstrated capabilities in policy development and analysis, and government planning and reporting are required. You must have strong critical thinking, analytic, risk assessment, and problem-solving skills as well as experience integrating an anti-racist and equity lens into policy development.  

Exceptional interpersonal skills are critical to your success, with the ability to understand differing needs and perspectives and navigate and negotiate within challenging conversations. You must have excellent written and oral communication skills, consultation, facilitation, and presentation skills.

A proven ability to effectively work independently and as part of a team is essential. You must have, strong planning, organizational and administrative skills, and have demonstrated initiative and accountability in setting priorities, meeting deadlines, and managing multiple projects. You must be proficient with Microsoft Office suite including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook (or equivalent).

The following are considered assets including:

• Knowledge of government processes, government structure, policy, and intergovernmental processes
• Experience in a social services, intergovernmental relations, and/or Indigenous relations organisation

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 combinations 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 2-year diploma and ten (10) years of related experience
• twelve (12) years total related experience 

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

The work is fast paced with competing priorities. Most of your work is spent located in a comfortable office environment. Some travel maybe necessary in this role. 

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
• Department specific flexible working schedules