POLICY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

City of Toronto • $105K — $160K *

Toronto, ON M3C 0E3In-Person

Education, Government & Non-Profit

5 - 7 years of experience

Today

Be an Early Applicant

By clicking Apply, I agree with Ladders' Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

Post-secondary education in public policy, planning, or related field, or equivalent experience.
Significant experience in policy and strategy development with a focus on translating research into practice.
Strong relationship-building skills with both internal and external stakeholders, including community groups.
Proven project management experience leading complex initiatives from start to finish with minimal guidance.
Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and team collaboration skills.
Outstanding presentation and communication abilities suitable for diverse platforms.
High political acumen and discretion with critical judgment in complex situations.

Responsibilities

Lead and support strategic policy development and analysis processes.
Recommend and implement policies and procedures for program requirements.
Conduct thorough research on relevant legislative and operational developments.
Review City Council reports to advise management on crucial agenda items.
Provide strategic financial insights and political advice as required.
Handle sensitive information pertaining to operations and budget matters.
Develop public consultation strategies for policy changes.

Benefits

Collaborative work environment with a diverse team of policy professionals.
Opportunity to influence high-impact public policies in Toronto.
Engagement in projects that directly improve community safety and vibrancy.
Professional development and networking opportunities in municipal governance.

Full Job Description

Job ID: 66099
Job Category: Policy, Planning & Research
Division & Section: Municipal Licensing & Standards, MLS Policy & Strategic Support
Work Location: City Hall, 100 Queen St W, Toronto
Job Type & Duration: Full Time, Temporary (12 month) vacancies
Salary Range: $105,241.00 - $160,649.00, Wage Grade PTM 3
Shift Information: Monday to Friday, 35 hours per week
Affiliation: Non-Union
Number of Positions Open: 2
Posting Period: 17-Aug-2026 to 31-Aug-2026

This is your chance to step into an exciting and dynamic role as aPolicyDevelopmentOfficer at MLS and lead policy files that will move the Division forward on key initiatives such as noise, property standards, indoor air temperature requirements, multi-tenant housing (rooming houses), and animal care services, among other important initiatives. You'll be part of a team that drives policy innovation and provides essential support to Committees, Council, and the Division in crafting effective regulatory frameworks, operating procedures, and business practices.

This Policy Development Officer will join an exceptional team of diverse and enthusiastic policy and research professionals committed to maintaining the safety and vibrancy of Toronto's communities. If you're a collaborative, innovative thinker with a passion for public policy, are curious and enthusiastic, and have a drive to advance high-impact policies and programs, this is the opportunity for you!

Major Responsibilities:

Leads and supports strategic policy development, policy analysis, research and program development processes by identifying, formulating and recommending new policies and policy amendments, preparing and supporting the delivery of detailed implementation plans to support management functions and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of operations and service delivery.
Recommends policies/procedures regarding program specific requirements and implements detailed plans.
Conducts research into assigned area ensuring that such research considers developments within the field, corporate policies and practices, and relevant legislation and initiatives by other levels of government.
Reviews and analyzes Standing Committee/Community Council/City Council agendas and reports, identifying items for the Manager/Director and initiate and coordinates necessary action for follow up.
Provides strategic financial and political advice.
Deals with confidential and sensitive information affecting MLS operations, staffing and budget related implications, assets and resources.
Develops, coordinates, and implements public consultation processes to support changes to policies and by-laws.
Develops divisional communication materials and content for internal and external stakeholders.
Provides leadership to project teams comprised of multiple stakeholder interests such as divisional staff, consultants, staff of other divisions and/or City agencies and/or external stakeholders to research, prepare, and monitor implementation of recommendations and manages budgets, requests for proposals and service contracts related to projects.
Prepares various correspondences, presentations, reports, briefing notes and other materials for the divisional senior management team.
Fosters, and works collaboratively to maintain close and effective, working relationships with managers and supervisors in the division and City divisions and other levels of government, technical consultants, and members of the public or other groups as appropriate to ensure awareness of existing and evolving issues and concerns.
Represents City interests in inter-jurisdictional, inter-governmental, international and community meetings/settings.
Participates in inter-Divisional policy/program development initiatives.

Key Qualifications:

Post-secondary education in a related discipline (e.g., public policy/public administration, planning, intergovernmental relations) or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Considerable experience in policy and strategy development, including the ability to advance knowledge translation between research, policy and operations.
Considerable experience building and cultivating relationships across an organization and with external stakeholder groups, including community groups or residents, in the development of public policy.
Considerable project management experience, stewarding complex initiatives from inception through to implementation with minimal direction while balancing political, community and other stakeholder interests, and resolving conflicts.
Exceptional leadership, negotiation and collaboration skills and the ability to coach and influence without direct authority.
Excellent presentation and written communication skills with the ability to structure and present information to both internal and external partners through a variety of communications platforms, while ensuring corporate branding and messaging.
High degree of judgment, political acumen and discretion; ability to analyze, problem solve and mediate complex situations, including ability to deal with divergent stakeholder interests.
Strong networking and relationship building skills; and ability to handle matters of a confidential/sensitive nature as it relates to Council, senior staff, management and unionized employees.
Ability to thrive in rapidly changing environment with frequent and competing priorities and deadlines and multiple tasks.
Knowledge of municipal operations, Committee and Council proceedings, collective agreements, City guidelines, policies, municipal bylaws, and relevant legislation including Employment Standards Act, Human Rights Code and Occupational Health & Safety Act, AODA, and a general understanding of issues facing divisions and the City.

About City of Toronto

City of Toronto provides its users with information on the lifestyles, business, and locations of Toronto. Lifestyle information consists of health, energy, services, children’s services, arts, culture, festivals, events, housing, and transportation. Business-related information consists of investments, startups, reports, event planning, and city-based partnerships. Furthermore, it provides its users with history, facts, images, events, and attractions of Toronto. City of Toronto is based in Ontario.

City of Toronto Careers

There has never been a better time to explore the diverse job opportunities at the City of Toronto—the hub of professional growth and innovation in the region.

Work You’ll Experience

Join the City of Toronto’s dynamic team to assist in transforming the city through public service and innovative leadership. The City of Toronto offers a unique position in the marketplace, combining public administration with cutting-edge initiatives that enhance the lives of its residents. Engage with a team of skilled professionals dedicated to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. The City of Toronto is not just a place of employment; it is a place where careers flourish and where the professional environment encourages continuous personal and professional development.

City of Toronto Jobs and Employment

The City of Toronto is building a market-leading workforce that supports the city’s vision through strategic leadership and proactive management. This team helps to master the challenges of urban growth and community service.

Innovative Work

At the City of Toronto, innovation isn’t just a buzzword—it's a practical approach to solving real-world issues that affect millions of people. With projects that range from improving municipal services to enhancing urban sustainability, employees at the City of Toronto push the boundaries of what is possible in public service.

Professional Growth and Development

The City of Toronto is committed to nurturing the careers of its employees with unmatched training, development programs, and leadership opportunities. Whether through professional development workshops, leadership training, or diversity training, the City ensures that every team member has the tools to succeed.

Explore Career Opportunities

From internships to full-time positions, the City of Toronto offers a range of job opportunities that cater to various skills and career aspirations. Positions in healthcare, engineering, finance, urban planning, and more are available, providing a broad spectrum of career paths for job seekers.

The City of Toronto Employment Culture

The City’s employment culture is centered on creating a supportive and inclusive workplace. This culture is evident in its commitment to diversity and innovation, where each team member’s contributions are valued and celebrated.

Stay Connected with City of Toronto Careers

Join the Team

Search open positions that match your skills and interests. The City of Toronto looks for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. Explore the various benefits, from health insurance to retirement plans, that make the City of Toronto a premier employer.

Keep Up to Date

Stay informed with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights—all from the professionals who are part of the City of Toronto team.

Job Alert Emails

Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await at the City of Toronto.

SEARCH CITY OF TORONTO JOBS

READ CAREERS BLOG

Learn more about City of Toronto

Size

10,001 employees

Industry