About Company
United Way Centraide North East Ontario (UWCNEO) is a vital community impact organization dedicated to improving lives and building strong, healthy communities across Northeastern Ontario. For decades, we have been at the forefront of tackling complex social challenges, from poverty and homelessness to mental health and youth development. We work collaboratively with a network of local agencies, volunteers, and donors, leveraging our collective resources to create lasting change. Our strategic approach focuses on identifying root causes, advocating for systemic improvements, and investing in programs that deliver measurable results. Through research, advocacy, and strategic partnerships, we empower individuals and families, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Join our team and be part of a meaningful mission that genuinely impacts the well-being of our entire community.
Job Description
Are you a recent graduate with a passion for social justice, public policy, and making a tangible difference in your community? United Way Centraide North East Ontario (UWCNEO) is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Entry Level Policy Research Assistant to join our dynamic team in South End, Sudbury. This is an exciting opportunity for an aspiring professional to gain hands-on experience in policy development, advocacy, and community impact within the non-profit sector.
As a Policy Research Assistant, you will play a crucial role in supporting UWCNEO’s efforts to understand, articulate, and address pressing social issues in North East Ontario. You will be instrumental in collecting, synthesizing, and analyzing data from a variety of sources, including academic literature, government reports, community surveys, and direct stakeholder feedback, to inform our strategic initiatives, advocacy positions, and community investment decisions. This position offers a unique chance to contribute to meaningful research that directly influences local and regional policy, ultimately leading to improved outcomes for vulnerable populations. You will be responsible for conducting thorough literature reviews, preparing concise policy briefs, and assisting in the development of compelling presentations and reports for internal and external audiences. This role requires a keen eye for detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively. You will work closely with experienced professionals, learning the intricacies of evidence-based policy formulation, stakeholder engagement, and translating complex data into actionable recommendations. We are looking for someone eager to learn, curious about societal challenges, and committed to contributing to a more equitable and prosperous North East Ontario, particularly focusing on areas such as poverty reduction, food security, mental health, and educational attainment. If you are ready to kickstart your career in a role where your work truly matters, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct comprehensive literature reviews, environmental scans, and data collection from diverse sources (academic journals, government reports, statistical databases, community studies).
- Assist in the analysis of quantitative and qualitative data to identify trends, gaps, and emerging issues relevant to UWCNEO's strategic priorities.
- Draft clear, concise, and evidence-based policy briefs, research summaries, and reports for various internal and external stakeholders.
- Prepare engaging presentations, charts, and infographics to communicate research findings effectively.
- Support the development of grant proposals and funding applications by providing relevant research and data.
- Contribute to the organization of community consultations, focus groups, and stakeholder meetings, including preparing background materials and documenting outcomes.
- Maintain and organize research databases and resource libraries to ensure easy accessibility of information.
- Stay informed about current social policy debates, legislative changes, and best practices in community development.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support the research and advocacy efforts of the team.
Required Skills
- Bachelor's degree in Social Sciences, Public Policy, Political Science, Economics, Community Development, or a related field.
- Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information from various sources.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write clear and compelling reports and presentations.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
- Demonstrated interest and passion for social justice, community well-being, and public policy.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
- High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
Preferred Qualifications
- Familiarity with statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, Stata) or data visualization tools.
- Previous volunteer or internship experience in a non-profit, research institution, or government setting.
- Knowledge of local community issues and the social service landscape in Northeastern Ontario.
- Basic understanding of program evaluation methodologies.
Perks & Benefits
- Comprehensive health and dental benefits package.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
- A collaborative and supportive work environment.
- The chance to make a significant impact on local communities.
- Paid time off and holidays.
- Employer-matched retirement savings plan.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and passion for this role. Please ensure your application highlights your research skills and commitment to community impact. Click on the link below to apply for the job.