Senior Policy Analyst
Safe Drinking Water & Wastewater Researcher
Refer to Competition Number- 2022-EDI-03
Internal/External Competition
Description: The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is seeking a highly skilled, motivated, and experienced professional to lead First Nations response to the development emergent water policies that impact First Nations safe, clean, drinking water and sanitation. Conduct research and analysis, develop reports, review and analyze policies, and provide advice related to the protection of safe drinking water and sanitation for First Nations. Work with other AFN sectors, First Nations, regional organizations, federal agencies, and others to provide input into the development of a Canada Water Agency and review of the Canada Water Act. Review reports by other agencies that relate to long term safe drinking water, wastewater, and source water protection. Stay current on national and international water and wastewater developments including United Nations Water, UNICEF WASH (water sanitation and hygiene), and advise senior management on response and input into their activities. Participate on the Safe Water on Reserve Management Committee. Monitor and provide comments on Health Canada technical guidance documents for consultation, United States Environmental Protection Agency, and other international reports.
Candidates will be a strong advocate in protecting First Nations access to safe drinking water and proper sanitation, meet the Sustainable Development Goals, rights and jurisdiction, regulatory and governance considerations, and have an excellent understanding of requirements contained in the United Nations Declaration of Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Who Can Apply: Persons of First Nations ancestry only may apply (s. 16(1) CHRA).
Qualifications: Candidates must have a minimum of 7 – 10 years’ experience in conducting research, analyzing information and policy experience, with a focus on First Nations safe drinking water and wastewater. Candidates should have a post-secondary degree in a relevant field including a background in water environment, legal, political and social sciences, understanding of provincial and territorial water and wastewater regulations and standards, policy development and governance, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Candidates should also have experience working with Indigenous Services Canada/First Nations Inuit Health Branch, Infrastructure Canada, Environment & Climate Change Canada, Health Canada, and/or other related Federal and Provincial departments and their various programs and initiatives related to First Nation safe drinking water and wastewater management.
All candidates will have demonstrated experience in writing proposals and reports, leading discussion groups, and synthesizing information into policy positions and documents. Candidates will need to show experience presenting to large audiences and will have demonstrated superior written and verbal communication.
Other Job Requirements: The AFN requires proof of COVID-19 vaccination or medical exemption as a condition of employment.
Salary Range: Commensurate with experience and education (within the salary grid). AFN offers competitive salaries, attractive benefits, and pension plans.
What can we offer you?
• Hybrid Work Arrangement
• Paid Time Off for December Holiday Break
• 100% Employer Paid Group Insurance, Including Extended Health Coverage, Dental, a Health Spending Account, Short-/Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance
• Pension Plan, with 8% Employee Contribution Matched by Employer
• Annual Amount Towards Participation in Physical Fitness Programs
• Annual Professional Development Amount
• Three (3) Weeks of Paid Vacation per Year, Progressively Increasing After Years of Service
• Three (3) Weeks of Paid Sick Leave per Year
• Nine (9) Days of Special Leave per Year
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Maternity and Parental Leave Top-Up
Abilities & Skills: Must have in-depth knowledge and understanding of First Nations safe drinking water and wastewater issues; knowledge of current federal and provincial drinking water and wastewater regulations; excellent verbal and written communication skills; and the ability to interpret technical materials and policies for general and First Nation audiences. The incumbent must possess excellent team building and group facilitation skills, listening, coaching, and exhibit self-motivation. Be comfortable speaking to large audiences and must have creative problem resolution skills. English is the working language although the ability to communicate effectively in French or any Indigenous language would also be an asset.
Personal Characteristics: Superior judgment and work ethic, with the ability to work both independently, and with others in a team dynamic, including managerial experience.
Location: Ottawa, Ontario with some travel. Please note that the AFN is working to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of our employees. Our offices have re-opened as of April 4th and are presently operating under a hybrid approach. Remote office set-up may be considered at the discretion of Chief Executive Officer.
Employment Status: Permanent Full-time position
Closing Date: Open until filled
Individuals who feel they are qualified are invited to submit a cover letter (quoting the above reference number) along with a current resume, to BambooHR.
Interviews will be held via Microsoft Teams or Zoom. While we appreciate all applications, only those candidates short-listed for an interview will be contacted. The AFN may cancel, postpone, or revise employment opportunities at any time.
