Political Science Urban jobs

Job Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Policy Associate to join our team dedicated to advancing impactful policies through rigorous research and data analysis. In this role, you will support policy development, conduct comprehensive research, and analyze complex datasets to inform strategic decision-making. The ideal candidate is passionate about policy issues, possesses strong analytical skills, and is eager to contribute to meaningful change through evidence-based insights. This paid position offers an exciting opportunity to work at the forefront of policy analysis and influence positive societal outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough research on policy topics using various sources, including academic journals, government reports, and industry publications.
• Collect, organize, and manage large datasets related to policy issues using tools such as SQL, Python, R, or SAS.
• Perform data analysis and visualization to identify trends, patterns, and insights that support policy recommendations.
• Utilize GIS (Geographic Information Systems) to analyze spatial data relevant to regional or community-based policies.
• Develop reports, presentations, and policy briefs that clearly communicate findings to stakeholders and decision-makers.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design surveys or data collection methods ensuring accuracy and reliability.
• Support the development of quantitative models using statistical software like Stata or SPSS for in-depth policy evaluation.

Experience

• Proven experience in data collection, analysis, and interpretation within a policy or research environment.
• Proficiency in statistical software such as R, Stata, SAS, or SPSS; familiarity with Python is highly desirable.
• Strong knowledge of SQL for database management and data querying tasks.
• Experience working with GIS tools for spatial data analysis is a plus.
• Excellent research skills with the ability to synthesize complex information into clear insights.
• Demonstrated ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail.
• Prior experience in policy analysis or related fields is preferred but not mandatory; a strong interest in public policy issues is essential.

Join us in shaping policies that make a difference! This role provides an engaging environment where your analytical expertise will directly impact meaningful initiatives aimed at societal improvement. We value proactive thinkers eager to learn and grow within a collaborative team dedicated to excellence in research and policy development.The Organization:

Established in 1987, the Public Policy Forum is a non-profit organization and charity that works with all orders of government, particularly the public service, as well as the private sector, trade unions, post-secondary institutions, foundations, NGOs and Indigenous groups to improve policy outcomes for Canadians. As a non-partisan, member-based organization, we work from “inclusion to conclusion," by convening discussions of emerging and established thinkers, doers and deciders on fundamental policy issues (inclusion) and by identifying fresh policy options and paths forward (conclusion). The Public Policy Forum researches and convenes around topical public policy challenges as well as celebrating great contributions to policy and public service at our testimonial dinners. We believe policy choices and execution directly impact the quality of life of Canadians. Our motto is Good Policy, Better Canada.

Overview:

We are seeking a highly analytical and motivated Policy Associate to join our team. The successful candidate will conduct in-depth research and analysis to inform policy decision-making and support the planning and roll out of policy project deliverables, including PPF’s Social Cohesion project, Build Big Things Project (BBT), Build Big Talent (BBTalent) and Life Sciences Forum (LSF). This role is ideal for someone with a strong understanding of public policy, excellent writing and research skills, and the ability to work effectively within a matrixed team.

Responsibilities:

· Conduct quantitative and qualitative research on a range of policy issues relevant to PPF’s mission, including economic growth, housing, local news, democracy, energy, critical minerals, infrastructure, and life sciences.

· Analyze and synthesize data, reports, and academic literature to produce clear, actionable insights.

· Draft policy briefs, reports, and memos for both internal and external stakeholders.

· Support the planning and roll out of policy project deliverables, including convenings, consultations and policy briefs.

· Coordinate with internal partners across PPF, including the Policy, Events and Media teams, to ensure alignment and identify opportunities to leverage synergies and efficiencies across programs.

Education:

· Post-secondary education in a relevant discipline;

· Experience in public policy research, analysis and writing;

· Knowledge of public service, public administration and political science;

· key Skills

· Excellent writing skills and a proven ability to prepare and edit documents to a high standard;

· Qualitative and quantitative research skills;

· Strong analytical skills: ability to identify relevant materials and main trends, and to prepare succinct summaries of main findings.

Please send your CV and cover letter to: Gail Burnett, gburnett@ppforum.ca

We thank all applicants for their interest in this opportunity. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Accommodations will be provided at all stages of the hiring process. We ask applicants to make their needs known in advance.

PPF provides equal opportunity to all employees and applicants without regard to age, ancestry, race, citizenship, ethnic origin, place of origin, creed, disability, family status, marital status, gender identity, gender expression, record of offences, sex, and/or sexual orientation.

Pay: $60,000.00-$70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company events
• Dental care
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Extended health care
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• RRSP match
• Vision care
• Work from home

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Ottawa, ON K2P 1L4