The Social Policy and Innovation Analyst plays a key role in advancing strategic, evidence-based policy and systems-level responses to complex social issues and opportunities. Working as part of a collaborative and forward-thinking team, this position supports the development and implementation of innovative social policy, strategies and initiatives that align with Strathcona County’s strategic priorities and community needs.
With a strong focus on policy research, analysis and strategic planning, this role brings clarity to complex social challenges and contributes to the design of solutions that drive sustained and meaningful impacts. This work draws on systems thinking, design approaches and evaluation methodologies to turn ideas into actionable plans and measurable outcomes. The successful candidate will possess a broad set of skills that support all aspects of convening and supporting diverse groups through design, engagement, evaluation, planning and implementation of socially creative strategies and practices.
This position will collaborate with internal and external partners to develop initiatives that respond to emerging community needs and opportunities. This role requires a blend of critical thinking, strong communication skills and the ability to distill complex ideas into actionable recommendations.
If you’re passionate about shaping and implementing social policy and strategy that contributes to lasting change for individuals, families and communities, we encourage you to apply!

WHO WE ARE:

Strathcona County is a specialized municipality located in the heart of Alberta. Our vision is to become Canada’s most livable community, where our workplace culture and identity are supported by our people plan and values of integrity, respect, safety, fairness, and cooperation.

Why Join Strathcona County: (depending on position)

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
• Extended health and dental coverage
• Health and wellness spending account
• Life and disability insurance
• Retirement and pension programs
• Earned day off program
• Employee and family assistance program
• Commitment to employee development, through internal and external training and development opportunities
• Well-being programs and a safety culture focused on physical and psychological health in the workplace

Equivalencies of education and experience may be considered. This role may be eligible to participate in our hybrid work program.
This competition may be used to fill future vacancies for similar positions within the next 6 months.
Strathcona County is committed to an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace that represents the community we serve. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who can contribute diverse perspectives and experiences.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Qualifications and Skills:

• A bachelor’s degree in the social sciences, humanities, or related studies – such as sociology, planning, human ecology, public policy, social work, political science, or public administration with a minimum of four years’ relevant experience is required
• Minimum of two years’ experience in a policy-related field across a broad range of areas, such as social impact, social policy, housing policy, non-profit, business, or other interdisciplinary sectors
• Experience managing complex, time-sensitive projects with multiple partners and accountabilities
• Powerful interpersonal skills and strong situational awareness, with the ability to adapt communication style and approach to suit diverse contexts
• Ability to develop and leverage relationships: a track record of building trust and sustaining excellent internal and external relationships
• Proven ability to work in a fast-paced environment and rapidly transition between tasks while meeting deadlines and priorities
• Experience developing social impact and outcomes measurement frameworks and reporting approaches would be an asset
• Curiosity to learn about the world, human behaviour and the motivations that lie beneath the surface
• Ability to navigate complex municipal government structures and processe

• Lead and support the development of emerging policies, strategies and initiatives in a dynamic and evolving environment, balancing shifting priorities and emerging needs
• Identify and apply innovative approaches to ensure robust, inclusive and evidence-informed policy development
• Develop and implement engagement plans that align with policy development, evaluation and community-led social innovation
• Lead collaborative discussions that integrate diverse perspectives from multiple partners to support informed decision-making and advance project objectives
• Build and collaboratively contribute to effective evaluation plans and approaches for policy and programs both existing and in progress
• Advance projects to scale and maturity through collaboration with community members and partner agencies
• Engage with community partners and grassroots groups to nurture and promote socially innovative strategies and initiatives that advance new approaches towards social objectives

Qualifications and Skills:

• A bachelor’s degree in the social sciences, humanities, or related studies – such as sociology, planning, human ecology, public policy, social work, political science, or public administration with a minimum of four years’ relevant experience is required
• Minimum of two years’ experience in a policy-related field across a broad range of areas, such as social impact, social policy, housing policy, non-profit, business, or other interdisciplinary sectors
• Experience managing complex, time-sensitive projects with multiple partners and accountabilities
• Powerful interpersonal skills and strong situational awareness, with the ability to adapt communication style and approach to suit diverse contexts
• Ability to develop and leverage relationships: a track record of building trust and sustaining excellent internal and external relationships
• Proven ability to work in a fast-paced environment and rapidly transition between tasks while meeting deadlines and priorities
• Experience developing social impact and outcomes measurement frameworks and reporting approaches would be an asset
• Curiosity to learn about the world, human behaviour and the motivations that lie beneath the surface
• Ability to navigate complex municipal government structures and processes