Senior Policy Analyst (Program Admin Officer 4)

About Us

The Department of Health and Wellness offers opportunities to grow and advance in a dynamic sector that touches the lives of all Nova Scotians.  Along with our partners, including the Nova Scotia Health Authority and the IWK Health Centre, we’re committed to continually improving our health care system. With a focus on collaborative clinical care delivery and planning, improved supports for acute care, women’s health, Pediatrics, Palliative, Hospice,  and more, the department is thinking differently about how to plan, fund, legislate and monitor to improve access and service delivery. To do this, we need leaders at all levels of the organization who embrace a challenge and believe in their ability to make a difference.
 

About Our Opportunity

Do you want to be a part of the exciting changes happening in the Nova Scotian Health System?

As a subject matter expert in the field, the Senior Policy Analyst with System Integration: Clinical Care, Delivery and Capital will provide expertise and advisory services to department staff with respect to research and policy development as well as work with senior department staff on major policy, research and procedural matters.

In this role, you play a critical role in facilitating DHW evidence-informed decision-making and will have the opportunity to work directly with provincial and inter-governmental health care stakeholders; and may represent the department on inter-departmental initiatives.
 

Primary Accountabilities

As the Senior Policy Analyst with System Integration: Clinical Care, Delivery and Capital you will be responsible for developing, implementing, and managing large projects usually involving all phases of work from strategic planning and policy development through to successful implementation. Within a typical day you will also be responsible for:

• Leading identified division functions (e.g., research and policy)
• Developing and evaluating policy options and related background material;
• Leading aspects of the legislative process, including preparation of submissions to Executive Council;
• Preparing reports, briefing books and responses relating to health system issues in Nova Scotia;
• Leading and/or participating in working groups on specific policy issues;
• Working within a team to coordinate stakeholder consultations and other public meetings; and
• Preparing briefing notes and correspondence for senior departmental staff on a wide range of matters related to the department's mandate.
   

Qualifications and Experience

As our next Senior Policy Analyst, you will hold a bachelor's degree in a health-related field plus six (6) years of progressive experience in a related field and policy experience.

You will have working experience with the following:
 

• Progressively responsible research and analysis;
• Superior writing skills with proven experience in report writing and preparation of briefing materials and policy development;
• Strong leadership skills with proven ability to build collaborative working relationships;
• Knowledge of and/or experience within the provincial legislative environment;
• Computer skills, proficient using Microsoft Office programs;
• Familiarity with legislation which falls under the DHW mandate; and

 
In addition to the above, you will have strong leadership skills, independent judgement and initiative as well as the ability to manage and conduct complex and specialized research and policy analysis.  You will be well-organized, capable of managing change and competing priorities, undertaking high level work under tight deadlines, and exercising sound judgement under pressure.  Lastly, you will be able to work cohesively in a team environment and be able to undertake complex assignments without supervision.
 
The following will be considered assets:
 

• Knowledge of structure, processes, and key players in Government; and
• Public policy development and analysis.

 
Please clearly illustrate in your cover letter how you meet the above qualifications.
 
We will assess the above qualifications 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

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. Your normal work week is 35 hours/week, 7 hours/day.
 

What We Offer

• Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
• An engaged workplace where we foster respect and recognition.
• Forward-thinking policies and strategies.
• countless career paths.
• Department Specific Flexible working schedules.