Position: Policy and Research Analyst
Closing: Posting closed October 22, 2026
Term: Full Time (35 hours per week)
Salary Range: $54,800- $69,200
Our Vision is “to lead the design, development, and delivery of sustainable and culturally appropriate housing that promotes excellence in the Indigenous community and organizational infrastructures.”
"
Every Relative. Every Home. Every Community. In a Good Way."
We are currently seeking a
Policy and Research Analyst for any of our offices located in
Sault Ste. Marie, Sudbury, North Bay, Timmins, Dryden, Peterborough, Hamilton, Toronto or Ottawa.
The Policy & Research Analyst plays a critical role in advancing OAHS’s mission as a leader in the design, development and delivery of sustainable and culturally appropriate continuum of housing for Indigenous people in Ontario. The position leads policy analysis and research deliverables that advance OAHS’s research and housing policy capacity, program development, and advocacy efforts. The role supports evidence-based decision making and contributes to systems change that improves housing outcomes for urban Indigenous communities across the province. Working collaboratively across departments and with external partners, The Policy & Research Analyst upholds OAHS’ values rooted in Indigenous teaching, respect, and accountability.
PLEASE APPLY ON OUR CAREERS PAGE:
https://careers.risepeople.com/ontario-aboriginal-housing-support-services-corporation/en
Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services also welcomes and supports diversity including those who identify as 2SLGBTQQNBIA+.
In meeting the objectives and vision of the organization, preference will be given to qualified individuals of First Nation, Métis, or Inuit ancestry, and are asked to self-identify on their cover letter.
Please note that you are encouraged to apply early as interviews will be scheduled as applications are received.
Compensation and Rewards:
In return for your ongoing excellent performance, strong work ethic, and commitment to our vision, mission, values, strategic plan, and the people we serve, Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services offers a comprehensive compensation package.
This comprehensive compensation and rewards package includes:
- Challenging and fulfilling work; an inclusive and supportive team; and a work environment steeped in and guided by Indigenous culture;
- Comprehensive medical & dental benefits + company vehicles available for fieldwork;
- $2000 Health Spending Account + $2000 Wellness Spending Account per employee;
- Company RSP matching program;
- Additional paid holidays (in addition to statutory holidays) include Louis Riel Day, National Indigenous Peoples Day, Indigenous Veterans Day and Easter Monday.
- Opportunity for cultural, educational, and other approved leaves;
- Supported training opportunities for personal and professional development while reciprocally enhancing organizational capacity;
- A competitive salary in the pay band 6, $54,800- $69,200.
Duties and responsibilities will include, but not be limited to the following:
Policy Analysis
- Research, analyze, and interpret legislation, regulations, funding frameworks, and policy initiatives impacting urban Indigenous housing.
- Develop policy options, briefing materials, presentations, and recommendations to support executive leadership and Board decision-making.
- Draft policy papers, submissions, position statements, presentations, and consultation responses.
- Review and analyze new housing reports, studies, and research to incorporate in OAHS policy and research initiatives.
- Monitor emerging provincial and federal policy developments and assess implications for OAHS programs and operations.
- Track and assess public policy trends affecting Indigenous housing and community well-being.
- Develop and maintain collaborative working relationships with policy and research colleagues from partner organizations.
- Support the development and refinement of internal policy frameworks and governance documents.
Research and Strategic Initiatives
- Support qualitative and quantitative research projects led by OAHS’ Senior Director of Programs and Research.
- Synthesize research findings into clear, actionable insights for internal and external audiences.
- Analyze economic, demographic, and housing data to inform program design and funding proposals.
Government Relations and Advocacy Support
- Contribute to the development of strategic government relations and advocacy strategies aligned with OAHS’ priorities.
- Prepare briefing notes, speaking materials, presentations, and background documents for meetings with government officials and partners.
- Support engagement with federal, provincial, and municipal levels of government, Indigenous partners, and other stakeholders.
Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration
- Collaborate with Indigenous organizations, housing providers, researchers, and community partners to gather knowledge and share information.
- Participate in working groups, committees, and sector tables related to Indigenous housing and social policy.
- Support culturally grounded engagement processes that center urban Indigenous voices and lived experience.
- Provide policy- and research-related support to OAHS Board meetings and relevant committees.
Organizational Support and Continuous Improvement
- Contribute to OAHS’ strategic planning and organizational development initiatives.
- Support grant proposals, funding applications, and reporting requirements through research and analysis.
- Maintain accurate documentation, research files, and policy records.
- Identify opportunities to improve internal processes related to research, data management, and knowledge sharing.
To qualify for this role, the successful candidate will have the following qualifications and skills:
- Post-secondary degree in Indigenous Studies, Public Policy, Social Sciences, Economics, Urban Planning, Public Administration, or a related field.
- Minimum 3–5 years of experience in policy analysis, research, government relations, or program development (experience within Indigenous organizations or the housing sector is considered a strong asset).
- Demonstrated experience interpreting legislation and assessing policy impacts.
- Experience working collaboratively with Indigenous communities or organizations is considered a strong asset.
- An equivalent combination of education and lived and/or professional experience may be considered.
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with demonstrated ability to assess complex policy and legislative environments.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to produce clear and persuasive policy documents.
- Demonstrated ability to conduct literature reviews, data analysis, and research using multiple sources.
- Knowledge of Indigenous housing policy and research, the community housing sector, and the public policy landscape.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work independently in a dynamic environment.
- High degree of integrity, discretion, and professionalism.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook), comfort with digital communication platforms, and ability to adapt swiftly to new applications and technologies.
- Experience with Salesforce considered an asset.
- High degree of self-motivation, accountability, and ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Conditions of employment:
- Ability to travel when required;
- Ability to work varying hours/days, if required;
- Initial and ongoing valid CPIC clearance (Criminal Records Check, Vulnerable Sector Search);
- Positive references at the sole discretion of OAHS;
- Current, valid Ontario Driver’s License and safe driving record; and
- Bondable, if
We thank all candidates who choose to apply, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
