HomeMy Public PortalAboutJunior Policy Analyst_Job Description_2023-08-01.pdfMUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT
OF CHESTER
POSITION DESCRIPTION
Position Title: Junior Policy Analyst
Salary Band: Individual Contributors
Reports to: Deputy CAO / Director, Corporate & Strategic Management
Status: Permanent Full Time
Location: Municipal Complex (186 Central Street and 151 King Street), subject to
change
Hours: 35 Hours per week, normally 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. subject to change.
Updated: August 2023
SCOPE
As a Junior Policy Analyst, you will work alongside municipal staff to assist in the research,
analysis, and implementation of policies, by-laws and initiatives that impact the community. You
will be responsible for conducting research, preparing reports, and developing policy
recommendations that will help shape the future of the municipality. Reporting to the Deputy
CAO / Director, Corporate & Strategic Management, the Junior Policy Analyst works in a
collaborative and cross-departmental framework to advance projects, initiatives, plans, and
policies that align with and advance the strategic priority outcomes of Council.
OBLIGATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES UNDER LEGISLATION
1. The Municipality of the District of Chester is committed to workplace safety and all
employees are expected to actively participate in the Municipality’s Occupational Health
and Safety Policy and Program and act in accordance with Occupational Health and Safety
Legislation and Regulations of the Province of Nova Scotia.
2. The Municipality of the District of Chester complies with the Labour Standards Code of
Nova Scotia and associated Regulations. All employees are also expected to act in
accordance with the appropriate Legislation.
Junior Policy Analyst Job Description (continued) 2
QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience
1. Current student or graduate of a college or university from a recognized post-secondary
institution with acceptable specialization in economics, statistics, sociology, political
studies/political science, public policy, planning or public administration.
2. Experience conducting policy research and analyzing and synthesizing information.
3. Experience providing policy recommendations.
4. Experience in reviewing and analyzing policy documents.
5. Experience in consulting with internal and external stakeholders.
6. Experience in preparing documents such as reports, presentations and briefing materials.
Skills/Knowledge/Competencies
1. Knowledge of policy tools and policy development process.
2. Knowledge/application of research methodology, economic and statistical analysis
methods, jurisdictional scans, and data analysis to analyze trends to make informed policy
recommendations and assess impact on policy and program development.
3. Sound research and analytical skills to understand and assess the external impact of trends
and issues; define problems and potential resolutions; develop new research concepts to
respond to changes in strategic focus and political/socio-economic priorities.
4. Knowledge of the MGA, relevant provincial legislation, and other relevant regulations or
policies affecting municipal governance or operations.
5. Understanding of local municipal government governance and administration, including
an understanding of current social, economic, environmental trends and their relevance to
local government.
6. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present research
findings and policy recommendations in a clear and concise manner.
7. Ability to work independently and as part of a team, meet deadlines, and manage multiple
tasks and priorities simultaneously.
8. Adherence to high standards of confidentiality.
SUMMARY OF FUNCTION
This general outline of duties and responsibilities is not intended to be all-inclusive or to limit
the Deputy CAO in assigning other duties as may be required.
1. Conduct research and analysis related to municipal policy issues, including gathering data,
reviewing literature, analyzing and recommending policy options for eventual presentation
by department heads, managers, and supervisors to Council.
Junior Policy Analyst Job Description (continued) 3
2. Assist with the development and implementation of municipal policy initiatives, including
drafting policy briefs, reports, and recommendations.
3. Assist with drafting and making recommendations on by-laws, policies and programs.
4. Analyze data and information gathered from various sources, including but not limited to
surveys, community meetings, and government reports.
5. Prepare reports and presentations that summarize your research findings and policy
recommendations.
6. Collaborate with municipal staff, community organizations, and other stakeholders to
gather feedback and support for policy proposals.
7. Assist with the development of promotional, informational, and issue management
communications needs for policy and strategic initiatives in collaboration with the
Communications Officer & Outreach Coordinator, as appropriate.
8. Understand the dynamics and sensitivities of strategic issues and their impact on the
Municipality’s communities.
9. Work with subject matter experts to facilitate or lead the development and review of by-
laws and polices as needed to meet the governance and operational needs of the
Municipality.
10. Conduct research on topics requested by the Deputy CAO and prepare analysis of
implications of proposed changes to existing policies, procedures, and programs for
project teams, Strategic Management Team, and Council, as appropriate.
11. Review and amend policy drafts and propose suggestions to improve the effects of
existing policies and by-laws.
12. Work closely with stakeholders to determine the goals and objectives of policies.
13. Position is expected to work with some degree of initiative and independence.
CONTACTS
1. Members of Council and Staff
2. Department Heads, Managers, Supervisors
3. Local Community Stakeholders (businesses, residents, landowners, public)
4. Outside Departments and Agencies