Senior Policy Analyst (Program Admin Officer 4)

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 Policy Manager, Strategic Policy and Decision Support, the Senior Policy Analyst works closely with a team of other policy professionals and with DCS programs and operational units to provide expert policy analysis and advice that enhances the Department's objectives and outcomes.

You will be responsible for coordinating policy development projects, Cabinet submissions, briefing materials, and engaging in strategic business planning, accountability reporting, and other corporate reporting. As required, you liaise with the central agencies of government including Finance and Treasury Board, Executive Council Office, and others.

Primary Accountabilities

In this critical role, you have several key responsibilities including:

• Providing expert policy advice to senior leaders and various working committees.
• Leading the development of effective and comprehensive Cabinet submissions, policies, and programs, ensuring that relevant impacts and implications are considered.
• Leading the preparation of briefing materials for standing committee appearances and the Legislature sitting and responding to ad hoc information and analysis requests.
• Contributing to corporate planning and reporting requirements, ensuring alignment with short- and long-term department priorities.
• Demonstrating cultural competence and a sound understanding of issues of equity as it relates to the policy development process.
• Developing strong working relationships and partnerships that drive strategy and innovation within the policy development process.

Qualifications and Experience

You have a bachelor’s degree and at least six (6) years related experience with policy, research, and analysis; or a related master’s degree and four (4) years experience. Experience in a social services setting is an asset.

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. You must have experience integrating an anti-racist and equity lens into policy development.  

Knowledge of government processes, government structure, and departmental planning and reporting processes is ideal. In addition, knowledge of data analysis and interpretation would be considered assets.

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 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).

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 eight (8) years of related experience
• Ten (10) 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.