Reporting to the Manager, Policy and Licensing Services, the Policy Advisor is responsible for: conducting research and policy analysis, preparing reports and by-laws; developing and implementing new programs and by-laws; consulting with and engaging various internal and external stakeholders; conducting statistical or trend analysis of service delivery metrics and assisting with Branch business and performance planning initiatives; maintaining, developing and preparing operational policies and procedures; developing and implementing staff training initiatives; preparing customer-oriented information materials; and providing daily research/policy support to senior management and each division within the Branch.

Responsibilities:

• Conducts research, prepares staff reports, and assists with the creation of City by-laws
• Leads cross-functional teams from different branches and departments, applying project management methodologies
• Conducts thorough research into emerging trends and best practices to identify opportunities for new and innovative programs and services
• Develops financial models to forecast financial implications
• Assists Branch management in the preparation of the Branch budget by providing data analysis support and maintaining an understanding of the overall City budgeting process
• Assists in the development of annual Branch business plans ensuring alignment with the Oshawa Strategic Plan
• Communicates the Branch business plan to staff and other internal and external partners as appropriate
• Writes and communications policies and procedures to the Branch, once approved
• Consults with management and front-line staff to identify training needs on an ongoing basis
• Develops and maintains internal training manuals
• Delivers presentations on a broad range of regulatory issues and programs to a variety of stakeholders, including City Council, City staff, and external stakeholders
• Prepares and maintains accurate and accessible Branch web pages
• Support and demonstrate the City of Oshawa core values of Authenticity, Courage, and Trust
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements:

• Completion of a four (4) year Undergraduate Degree in the disciplines of Public Policy, Public Administration, or Law, a master’s degree in the discipline of Public Administration, Public Policy, or equivalent is preferred, plus a minimum of two (2) years’ experience in a public policy role in a government capacity, an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
• Certification as a; Municipal Manager (C.M.M.), Municipal Law Enforcement Officer (M.L.E.O. (C)) and Property Standards Officer (C.P.S.O.), Project Management Professional (P.M.P.) are considered to be an asset
• Certification with A.M.C.T.O. (e.g. Municipal Administration Program) and Certification with Lean/Six Sigma methodologies are considered assets
• An expert-level computer proficiency in Word, Excel, Power Point, Project Management Software, Visio, Adobe Acrobat, and having an excellent comprehension of the use of computers and standard software is essential
• Possess exceptional research and business writing skills
• Demonstrated level of political acuity and strong critical thinking abilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Knowledge of relevant by-laws that are administered by the Branch and applicable provincial legislation (e.g. Municipal Act, 2001, Vital Statistics Act, 1990, Planning Act, 1990, Building Code Act, 1992, etc.)
• Knowledge of information systems and database applications (e.g. Officer Enforcement, Oshawa Land Information System, City View, Lagan, and PeopleSoft) and human resource practices

This position is eligible for hybrid work.

As a condition of employment, the City of Oshawa will require successful candidates to undergo a Criminal Records and Judicial Matters Check.