Expressions of Interest - Policy Analyst

Important messages

We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment, starting with the hiring process. If you need to be accommodated during any phase of the evaluation process, please use the Contact information below to request specialized accommodation. All information received in relation to accommodation will be kept confidential.

Assessment accommodation

ACOA prioritizes an inclusive, equitable and safe work environment. This means that ACOA highlights equity and inclusion in all steps of the selection process. Our aim is to have a workplace that welcomes visible and invisible forms of diversity.

We strongly believe that inclusive, diverse teams foster creativity and lead to better products and services. We want to attract and retain a workforce that represents the diverse communities we serve.

Work environment

ACOA Nova Scotia’s Policy, Advocacy and Coordination Team is looking for top talent to help with research, analysis and intergovernmental relations on important issues affecting the future of the Nova Scotian and Atlantic Canadian economies.

About ACOA
The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) works to create opportunities for economic growth in the region by helping businesses become more competitive, innovative and productive, by working with diverse communities to develop and diversify local economies, and by championing the strengths of Atlantic Canada.

We are constantly engaged in succession planning, looking for resourceful and astute analysts. People who are adaptable to multitasking, able to manage sometimes conflicting priorities, and able to switch their focus quickly and effectively to a completely different goal. As importantly, we are looking for people who value work-life balance.

For more than a decade, ACOA has consistently ranked among the best organizations to work for in the federal public service.

What we are looking for
• Curiosity, initiative, passion for the region and a dedication to professionalism and excellence
• Exceptional communication skills
• Self-starter and proactive approach
• Strong analytical and research skills
• Proven ability to prepare briefing products for a variety of audiences
• Significant experience in public policy, research or economic development
• Understanding of the Atlantic Canadian economy and emerging challenges and opportunities for businesses and communities
• Ability to work both independently and in a team environment
• Comfort in a fast-paced and dynamic working environment

Intent of the process

To fill two (2) positions at the above level for a period of one (1) year. The process may be used to fill similar positions with various language requirements.

Positions to be filled: 2

Information you must provide

Your résumé.

A covering letter "explaining why you are interested in the job and what would make you a good fit."

In order to be considered, your application must clearly explain how you meet the following (essential qualifications)

EDUCATION
• Graduation with a degree from a recognized post-secondary institution with acceptable specialization in economics, sociology or statistics.

Candidates must always have a degree; however, the specialization may be acquired through an acceptable combination of education, training and/or work experience. If you went to school outside of Canada, you can find information on degree equivalency here.

Degree equivalency

The following will be applied / assessed at a later date (essential for the job)

English essential

Information on language requirements

EXPERIENCES
• Experience in managing studies, research or strategic initiatives
• Experience analyzing issues and in developing strategies or options
• Experience researching and analyzing social or economic issues
• Experience working on projects or issues that require collaboration with partners or clients
• Experience providing strategic advice (written and verbal) to senior management* on policy, programs or corporate issues (e.g. briefing notes, memoranda, policy papers, reports or presentations).

*Senior management is defined as director level or higher.

COMPETENCIES
- Communication (Oral and Written)
- Thinking things through
- Showing initiative and being action-oriented
- Attention to detail

The following may be applied / assessed at a later date (may be needed for the job)

ORGANIZATIONAL NEEDS
In support of achieving a represented workforce, current or future organizational needs may require consideration be given to candidates self-identifying as belonging to one of the following Employment Equity groups: women, members of visible minorities, persons with disabilities, and Aboriginal peoples.

OPÉRATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
• Willingness and ability to work overtime as needed, sometimes on short notice
• Willingness and availability to travel
• Possession of a valid driver's license or personal mobility to the extent normally associated with the possession of a driver's license

Conditions of employment

Reliability Status security clearance - The two positions in this process requires a reliability security status.
*If the process is used to fill future staffing vacancies, the security level will be based on the position to be staffed (reliability or secret security clearance).

VACCINATION
All employees of the core public administration are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and attest to their vaccination status unless accommodated based on a medical contraindication, religion, or another prohibited ground for discrimination as defined under the Canadian Human Rights Act.

Other information

The Public Service of Canada is committed to building a skilled and diverse workforce that reflects the Canadians we serve. We promote employment equity and encourage you to indicate if you belong to one of the designated groups when you apply.

Information on employment equity

On October 6, 2021, the Government of Canada announced details of its plans to require vaccination across the federal public service.

As per the new Policy on COVID-19 Vaccination for the Core Public Administration Including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, federal public servants in the Core Public Administration and members of the RCMP must attest to their vaccination status. The requirement for employees to be fully vaccinated applies whether they are teleworking, working remotely or working on-site. This is a condition of employment and it applies to indeterminate (permanent), determinate (term), casual, and student hiring. Should you reach the point in the selection process where it is necessary to verify terms and conditions of employment then the hiring manager or a human resources representative will contact you in order to complete an attestation.

Preference

Preference will be given to veterans first and then to Canadian citizens and permanent residents, with the exception of a job located in Nunavut, where Nunavut Inuit will be appointed first.

Information on the preference to veterans

We thank all those who apply. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.