Program Lead, Social Services Analyst (Policy, Research and Initiatives Advisor)
Top Benefits
About the role
Status
Temporary Full-Time
Temporary - Approximate length of assignment, in months
12
Type of Position
an Addition to Staff
Start Date
Immediately
Salary
Per hour
Salary Grade
$59.13 - $64.28
Department
York Region -> Community & Health Services -> Social Services
Location
Hybrid work opportunities may apply - CA
SS SA and HCP Newmarket - 17150 Yonge Street - Newmarket, ON L3Y 8V3 CA (Primary)
Job Description (E)
ABOUT US
Almost 1.2 million residents call York Region home, making it one of the largest regions in Canada – and the fastest growing with a population that’s expected to grow to more than 2 million by 2041. Our geography, which is comprised of about 1,800 square kilometers over nine different municipalities, is as beautiful, interesting and diverse as our people. Local government is organized in a two-tier structure and we work together with our local municipalities to provide residents and businesses access to a broad selection of services and resources.
WHAT WE OFFER
Consistently named one of Canada’s Best Employers by Forbes, we offer a collaborative, progressive workplace that takes pride in our organizational culture and is committed to living The 13+ Factors of Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace – aligned with our vision to create strong, caring and safe communities both within and outside our walls.
- Defined Benefit Pension Program - With the Ontario Municipality Employees Retirement System (OMERS) defined benefit pension plan, you can confidently retire knowing that you will have income for life. Eligibility from date of hire as a full-time employee and includes employer-matched contributions.
- Employer of Choice - Recognized as the highest-ranking government employer in Canada and fourth overall among 300 organizations.
- Benefits and Wellness - Employees and their loved ones have access to an employee health care spending account, access to a 24/7 Employee and Family Assistance Program and corporate discounts and purchase plans for day-to-day products and services. Casual employees are eligible to receive payment in lieu of benefits and/or vacation.
- Inclusive and Diverse Workforce - We’re committed to fostering an environment that celebrates all dimensions of diversity and ensures everyone can develop to their full potential, participate freely in society and live with respect, dignity and freedom from discrimination. Our robust Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility program continues to grow, and has been recognized by the United Nations and many other organizations for our leadership.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Reporting to the Supervisor, Program Policy and Planning, is responsible for providing policy and analytical support to the Social Services Branch programs, including Ontario Works, Employment Services, Children’s Programs (Child Fee Assistance, Children’s Community Programs and Early Intervention Services), and Homelessness Community Programs; supporting the development of innovative and strategic program policies and plans; researching and analyzing projects; leading outcome-based program development and project teams; developing cross-functional linkages to ensure that Regional policies and programs align with Social Service outcomes; developing innovative and strategic responses to social programs and plans to address human service needs; interpreting and communicating relevant legislation (i.e. Ontario Works) and policies to staff; and providing guidance, training, mentoring, and coordinating, assigning, scheduling and checking the work of assigned staff and ensuring a safe working environment.
WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING
- Develops and implements work plans for program policy and community development strategies, ensuring strong linkages across the Branch with other Departments and stakeholders.
- Develops program policies and implementation strategies for Branch wide and Divisional initiatives to meet provincial legislation, regulatory requirements and Regionally mandated programs and makes recommendations to the Supervisor and Manager; develops and provides policy interpretation to the Branch, Department and Regional staff, clients and community agencies for programs.
- Leads cross functional project teams to develop and implement Division, Department and corporate priorities and programs; leads and/or participates on special projects, as assigned; provides policy and program support to the Social Service Branch Divisions, and interprets legislations and assesses impact of legislative and policy changes.
- Researches, analyzes and evaluates social, economic, political environments and policies in a local and provincial context, evaluating applicability to Branch and Divisions and identifying best practices for inclusion in Regional program proposals.
- Gathers and analyzes information on Division and human/housing related issues; prepares committee reports, public reports, business cases, policy proposals, presentations, briefing notes and Council reports, that identify impact and options analysis and statistical reports; monitors and reviews data to identify trends and develop community and Division strategies.
- Gathers and analyzes information, monitors and reviews data to identify trends and develop community and program strategies and identifies impact and options for program improvements or expansion.
- Provides guidance, training, mentoring and coordinates, assigns, schedules and checks the work of assigned staff.
- Implements and creates work plans including the scope of work and key deliverables, assigning and preparing timelines and deadlines for projects, while ensuring strong linkages across the branch, other departments and stakeholders.
- Responds to inquiries and resolves concerns, as appropriate.
- Ensures that services provided meet Regional customer service standards.
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
- Successful completion of a University Degree in Public Policy, Administration or Social Sciences or relevant field or approved equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Minimum five (5) years’ experience in a municipal or provincial public policy development sector with responsibilities in leading complex project initiatives and program/policy development.
- Knowledge of legislation related to Social Service Branch responsibilities such as Ontario Works Act or Child Care and Early Years Act.
- Knowledge of the Department’s program delivery operations, programs and services, the community served and client social issues.
- Demonstrated knowledge of contemporary social research and evaluation methods, including writing detailed reports and proposals.
Council Approval Date
Scheduled Weekly Hours
35
Scheduled Shifts
8:30 - 16:30
Operational Hours
Close Date
October 1, 2025
of Hires Needed
1
Union
CUPE Local 4900
.
Please apply online by 5:00PM EST of the closing date indicated above.
All employment opportunities are recorded on a 24-Hour Career Line and may be accessed by calling 1-877-464-9675 ext. 75508. We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please be advised, York Region uses email as the primary means of communication with candidates and does not use AI technology in any part of the recruitment process. Please ensure your email address is up to date, checked frequently (including your spam folder), and accepts messages from unknown users.
York Region is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection process. We respect, encourage and celebrate our diversity, aiming to build a qualified workforce that reflects the population we serve. Should you require an accommodation under the Human Rights Code during the recruitment and selection process, including accessible formats and communication supports, please email careers@york.ca or call 1-877-464-9675 extension 75506. Accommodations for applicants with disabilities are available upon request during recruitment processes and throughout employment.
About York Region
The Regional Municipality of York is made up of nine cities and towns, and we provide services to 1.2 million residents, 54,000 businesses and 650,000 employees. We have a two-tier government structure, with services provided both by York Region our local-area municipal governments.
At York Region, we know that a healthy and productive workplace is vital to the success of any organization. And year after year, we're recognized as one of the best employers because of what we offer to our employees. Our progressive, collaborative and accountable culture attracts top talent that is driven by a desire to shape and serve the growing community in which we live and work.
Program Lead, Social Services Analyst (Policy, Research and Initiatives Advisor)
Top Benefits
About the role
Status
Temporary Full-Time
Temporary - Approximate length of assignment, in months
12
Type of Position
an Addition to Staff
Start Date
Immediately
Salary
Per hour
Salary Grade
$59.13 - $64.28
Department
York Region -> Community & Health Services -> Social Services
Location
Hybrid work opportunities may apply - CA
SS SA and HCP Newmarket - 17150 Yonge Street - Newmarket, ON L3Y 8V3 CA (Primary)
Job Description (E)
ABOUT US
Almost 1.2 million residents call York Region home, making it one of the largest regions in Canada – and the fastest growing with a population that’s expected to grow to more than 2 million by 2041. Our geography, which is comprised of about 1,800 square kilometers over nine different municipalities, is as beautiful, interesting and diverse as our people. Local government is organized in a two-tier structure and we work together with our local municipalities to provide residents and businesses access to a broad selection of services and resources.
WHAT WE OFFER
Consistently named one of Canada’s Best Employers by Forbes, we offer a collaborative, progressive workplace that takes pride in our organizational culture and is committed to living The 13+ Factors of Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace – aligned with our vision to create strong, caring and safe communities both within and outside our walls.
- Defined Benefit Pension Program - With the Ontario Municipality Employees Retirement System (OMERS) defined benefit pension plan, you can confidently retire knowing that you will have income for life. Eligibility from date of hire as a full-time employee and includes employer-matched contributions.
- Employer of Choice - Recognized as the highest-ranking government employer in Canada and fourth overall among 300 organizations.
- Benefits and Wellness - Employees and their loved ones have access to an employee health care spending account, access to a 24/7 Employee and Family Assistance Program and corporate discounts and purchase plans for day-to-day products and services. Casual employees are eligible to receive payment in lieu of benefits and/or vacation.
- Inclusive and Diverse Workforce - We’re committed to fostering an environment that celebrates all dimensions of diversity and ensures everyone can develop to their full potential, participate freely in society and live with respect, dignity and freedom from discrimination. Our robust Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility program continues to grow, and has been recognized by the United Nations and many other organizations for our leadership.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Reporting to the Supervisor, Program Policy and Planning, is responsible for providing policy and analytical support to the Social Services Branch programs, including Ontario Works, Employment Services, Children’s Programs (Child Fee Assistance, Children’s Community Programs and Early Intervention Services), and Homelessness Community Programs; supporting the development of innovative and strategic program policies and plans; researching and analyzing projects; leading outcome-based program development and project teams; developing cross-functional linkages to ensure that Regional policies and programs align with Social Service outcomes; developing innovative and strategic responses to social programs and plans to address human service needs; interpreting and communicating relevant legislation (i.e. Ontario Works) and policies to staff; and providing guidance, training, mentoring, and coordinating, assigning, scheduling and checking the work of assigned staff and ensuring a safe working environment.
WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING
- Develops and implements work plans for program policy and community development strategies, ensuring strong linkages across the Branch with other Departments and stakeholders.
- Develops program policies and implementation strategies for Branch wide and Divisional initiatives to meet provincial legislation, regulatory requirements and Regionally mandated programs and makes recommendations to the Supervisor and Manager; develops and provides policy interpretation to the Branch, Department and Regional staff, clients and community agencies for programs.
- Leads cross functional project teams to develop and implement Division, Department and corporate priorities and programs; leads and/or participates on special projects, as assigned; provides policy and program support to the Social Service Branch Divisions, and interprets legislations and assesses impact of legislative and policy changes.
- Researches, analyzes and evaluates social, economic, political environments and policies in a local and provincial context, evaluating applicability to Branch and Divisions and identifying best practices for inclusion in Regional program proposals.
- Gathers and analyzes information on Division and human/housing related issues; prepares committee reports, public reports, business cases, policy proposals, presentations, briefing notes and Council reports, that identify impact and options analysis and statistical reports; monitors and reviews data to identify trends and develop community and Division strategies.
- Gathers and analyzes information, monitors and reviews data to identify trends and develop community and program strategies and identifies impact and options for program improvements or expansion.
- Provides guidance, training, mentoring and coordinates, assigns, schedules and checks the work of assigned staff.
- Implements and creates work plans including the scope of work and key deliverables, assigning and preparing timelines and deadlines for projects, while ensuring strong linkages across the branch, other departments and stakeholders.
- Responds to inquiries and resolves concerns, as appropriate.
- Ensures that services provided meet Regional customer service standards.
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
- Successful completion of a University Degree in Public Policy, Administration or Social Sciences or relevant field or approved equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Minimum five (5) years’ experience in a municipal or provincial public policy development sector with responsibilities in leading complex project initiatives and program/policy development.
- Knowledge of legislation related to Social Service Branch responsibilities such as Ontario Works Act or Child Care and Early Years Act.
- Knowledge of the Department’s program delivery operations, programs and services, the community served and client social issues.
- Demonstrated knowledge of contemporary social research and evaluation methods, including writing detailed reports and proposals.
Council Approval Date
Scheduled Weekly Hours
35
Scheduled Shifts
8:30 - 16:30
Operational Hours
Close Date
October 1, 2025
of Hires Needed
1
Union
CUPE Local 4900
.
Please apply online by 5:00PM EST of the closing date indicated above.
All employment opportunities are recorded on a 24-Hour Career Line and may be accessed by calling 1-877-464-9675 ext. 75508. We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please be advised, York Region uses email as the primary means of communication with candidates and does not use AI technology in any part of the recruitment process. Please ensure your email address is up to date, checked frequently (including your spam folder), and accepts messages from unknown users.
York Region is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection process. We respect, encourage and celebrate our diversity, aiming to build a qualified workforce that reflects the population we serve. Should you require an accommodation under the Human Rights Code during the recruitment and selection process, including accessible formats and communication supports, please email careers@york.ca or call 1-877-464-9675 extension 75506. Accommodations for applicants with disabilities are available upon request during recruitment processes and throughout employment.
About York Region
The Regional Municipality of York is made up of nine cities and towns, and we provide services to 1.2 million residents, 54,000 businesses and 650,000 employees. We have a two-tier government structure, with services provided both by York Region our local-area municipal governments.
At York Region, we know that a healthy and productive workplace is vital to the success of any organization. And year after year, we're recognized as one of the best employers because of what we offer to our employees. Our progressive, collaborative and accountable culture attracts top talent that is driven by a desire to shape and serve the growing community in which we live and work.