Mentorship Program: Junior Policy Analyst – 8-month Term

Location: Ottawa, Ontario

Employment Status: (2)-Full-Time term Positions

Closing Date: May 30, 2026

External Competition

About the AFN

The AFN is an advocacy organization that takes direction and fulfills mandates as directed by First Nations in-Assembly through resolutions. As a national advocacy organization for First Nations, the AFN seeks to advance First Nations Inherent and Treaty Rights through the development of policy, public education, and where applicable, the co-development of legislation to build First Nations capacity.

The AFN was created out of a desire among First Nations leadership for a strong and effective collective advocacy organization. From this, values such as respect for human rights, diversity, justice, and the sovereignty of each rights-holding First Nation guide the work of the organization.

About the First Nations and Inuit Youth Employment Strategy (FNIYES)

The FNIYES, managed by Indigenous Services Canada and provides Indigenous youth aged 15 to 30 on-reserve or in recognized communities with work experience, skill development, and career planning.

Position Overview

The Junior Policy Analyst reports to the Director and supports policy development through research, data analysis, and information gathering related to First Nations issues and priorities. This position contributes to the achievement of work plans and organizational objectives by supporting national advocacy efforts. Travel may be required.

Key Responsibilities

• Gathers information and statistics to inform policy development and provides related recommendations.

• Writes meeting summaries and conducts research to support the preparation of funding proposals and policy materials.

• Assists with the preparation of resolutions, as needed.

• Participates in team meetings and shares updates with colleagues.

• Collaborates with other teams and departments within the organization as required.

• Attends staff-wide meetings and engagement sessions.

• Assists in the preparation of briefing notes, speaking notes, presentations, reports, memos, articles, work plans, and other materials to support internal planning and communication.

• Ensures final approved documents are properly filed in the organization’s record-keeping system (e.g., Laserfiche).

• Maintains effective communication and positive working relationships with internal colleagues.

• Supports the development and maintenance of strong relationships with First Nations leadership, specialists, organizations, and communities at the national, regional, and local levels.

• Participates in engagement sessions, meetings, and events as required.

• Assists in preparing quality materials for use by senior leadership, including speaking notes, briefing notes, correspondence, and presentations.

• Supports the planning and coordination of committees, working groups, and engagement events.

• Attends and takes notes at key assemblies and gatherings (e.g., Annual General Assembly, Special Chiefs Assembly), as required.

• Performs other duties as assigned by the Director.

Working Conditions

• Primarily office-based with regular travel required for meetings, community engagement, and events.

• Flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate community needs and organizational priorities.

Physical and Mental Demands

• Extended periods of computer use and desk work.

• High levels of concentration and emotional resilience are required.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Who Can Apply:

• Recent post-secondary graduates in various disciplines between the ages of 15-30 as per program guidelines.

• Experience working with Indigenous communities and organizations.

• Demonstrated knowledge of First Nations communities and governance systems,

• Good verbal and written communication skills with the ability to translate complex ideas and information to any audience.

• Teamwork, time management, planning and organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Ability to research and understand statistical related terminology.

• Excellent interpersonal & negotiation skills, management ability, leadership, teamwork, and judgement.

• Diplomacy, tact, and decision-making ability.

• Planning and organization skills.

• English is the working language; however, knowledge of an Indigenous language(s) is an asset.

Diversity Statement

Qualified persons of First Nations Ancestry will be given preference in accordance with s.16(1) of the Canadian Human Rights Act.

Accommodation Statement

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is dedicated to an inclusive selection process and work environment. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise the Human Resources representative when you are invited to meet regarding this employment opportunity.

While we appreciate all applications, only those candidates short-listed for an interview will be contacted.

AFN may cancel, postpone, or revise employment opportunities at any time.