Research jobs in Calgary, AB

ABOUT THE STUDENTS’ UNION

The Students’ Union (SU) is one of the leading undergraduate student associations in Canada. We are a not-for-profit organization that works to provide University of Calgary undergraduate students with the best possible university experience through advocacy, representation, and valuable on-campus services and programs. We also manage several businesses within the MacEwan Student Centre, including a restaurant and bar, two concert venues, a convenience store, a used bookstore and copy centre, and the MacEwan Conference & Event Centre.

We're in the business of student leadership. SU staff coach, mentor, and work alongside elected student leaders to help them develop skills and make good decisions for the organization. We are a nimble organization that can respond quickly to emerging issues and trends.

The Students’ Union offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

• Five weeks paid vacation, to start
• Unlimited paid sick time
• Six percent RRSP matching
• Full health and dental benefits plus a health spending account
• A mission-driven culture that values work-life balance, diverse experiences, and kindness

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting to the Director, Student Services, the Policy Analyst supports organizational governance and policy development within the Students’ Union. The role works closely with the Students’ Legislative Council (SLC) and its committees to promote good governance practices, guide the development and review of bylaws, policies, and procedures, and provide education and mentorship to student leaders and staff.

The Policy Analyst researches and analyzes governance and post-secondary education issues at the university and government levels. Areas of focus include affordability, accessibility, and quality of education, as well as the SU’s internal governance, programs, services, and commercial interests.

The role also advises on compliance with internal governance requirements, including student elections, organizational meeting requirements, and administrative tribunal processes. The Policy Analyst provides strategic advice to elected Executive members on policy, governance, and relationships with the university and other stakeholders.

SALARY

The hiring range for this position is $55,000 to $60,000 annually, with the offered salary negotiated based on the candidate’s relevant experience.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Research and analyze legislative, regulatory, and policy issues at the university, municipal, provincial, and federal levels.
• Draft, review, and revise governance documents, including resolutions, bylaws, policies, and procedures.
• Advise on the application and implementation of governance documents and provide training and orientation sessions.
• Respond to inquiries about SU governance, policies, and procedures, and assist with inquiries related to University of Calgary policies as appropriate.
• Oversee the administration of student elections, including related policies, procedures, and documentation.
• Prepare briefing materials, discussion papers, reports, and correspondence for the Director, Executive members, the SLC, and its committees.
• Provide impartial guidance and administrative support for internal complaints and appeals, including administrative tribunal processes.
• Provide strategic advice to elected officials to support their preparation for meetings with university staff, committees, and stakeholders.
• Maintain an annual governance calendar and guide staff and student leaders on governance timelines and requirements.
• Oversee surveys, including survey development, distribution, data analysis, and reporting.
• Liaise with university staff regarding student membership on university governance bodies, particularly General Faculties Council, the University Appeals Committee, and the University Appeals Tribunal.
• Train, mentor, and support part-time student staff involved in policy research and governance.
• Provide ongoing training, mentorship, and support to the Vice-President Academic throughout their term.
• Undertake other special projects as requested by the Director, Student Services.

QUALIFICATIONS

• A university degree in political science, law, public policy, or an equivalent combination of education and experience, with at least two years of related research and/or policy analysis experience.
• Experience in post-secondary education, government, the public sector, or a non-profit organization is preferred.
• Experience in regulatory analysis, board governance, or knowledge of University of Calgary academic and non-academic policies is an asset.
• Strong research and analytical skills, including the ability to assess information, identify alternatives, draw conclusions, and make practical recommendations.
• Strong written, verbal, and listening skills, including the ability to communicate complex information clearly and speak effectively in public.
• Knowledge of current issues affecting post-secondary education.
• Experience with bylaw and policy development, organizational governance, and compliance.
• Strong planning and organizational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
• Sound judgment and problem-solving skills.
• The ability to provide impartial advice, build working relationships, and coach and mentor student leaders.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience with the Qualtrics survey platform is an asset.

HOW TO APPLY

Please DO NOT apply through Indeed. Instead, email your resume and cover letter to resumes@su.ucalgary.ca.

Applications will be accepted until November 30, 2026, or until the position is filled. We anticipate interviewing candidates and making a hiring decision in December.

STATEMENT ON EMPLOYMENT EQUITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION

The Students’ Union encourages qualified candidates from equity-deserving groups to apply. We particularly encourage applications from Black, Indigenous, and other racialized communities, as well as people who identify as 2Spirit and/or LGBTQIA+ or who experience marginalization based on gender expression, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

The Students’ Union welcomes applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates participating in any part of the selection process. Please advise us of your needs at any point, and we will work with you while respecting your privacy.

The Students’ Union is grateful to work on the traditional territories of the people of the Treaty 7 region in Southern Alberta, which includes the Blackfoot Confederacy (comprising the Siksika, Piikuni, and Kainai First Nations), the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda (including the Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Goodstoney First Nations). The City of Calgary is also home to Métis Nation of Alberta, Region III. The University of Calgary is situated on land adjacent to where the Bow River meets the Elbow River. The traditional Blackfoot name of this place is Moh’kins’tsis, which we now call the City of Calgary.

The Students’ Union recognizes that land acknowledgments are not enough. We need to pursue truth, reconciliation, decolonization, and allyship in an ongoing effort to make right with all our relations.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $55,000.00-$60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental care
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Extended health care
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• RRSP match
• Vision care

Work Location: In person