Policy & Indigenous Relations Advisor (Full-Time)

City of Thunder Bay • Thunder Bay, ON

10d • Onsite

About The Position

Lead with purpose and advance Indigenous Relations within the organization. At the City of Thunder Bay, Our City Runs on People Like You. Together, we’re building a workplace where everyone belongs – where you’ll support in embedding Indigenous perspectives, equity, and cultural understanding into policies, programs, and decision-making across the organization. You’ll influence systems not just individual initiatives and help shape how staff and leaders approach their work – supporting internal capacity, advancing culturally informed practices, and ensuring the Corporation’s commitments to Truth & Reconciliation are reflected in how we operate every day. You will be part of a work environment that supports respectful interactions, meaningful opportunities to grow, and a culture that promotes well-being and collaboration. Thunder Bay offers more than a meaningful career. With its natural beauty, strong sense of community, and growing opportunities, it’s a place where your work can have real impact – both professionally and personally.

Requirements

• Degree in a public administration, political, social science or humanities field, along with three (3) years’ experience working with government and/or community organizations in roles that support communications, collaborations, partnerships, policy analysis, or Indigenous Relations; or
• Diploma in a political, social science, humanities field, along with five (5) years’ experience working with government and/or community organizations in roles that support communications, collaborations, partnerships, policy analysis, or Indigenous Relations
• Demonstrated knowledge of Indigenous governance, issues, protocols, and cultures
• Knowledge of social issues relating to poverty, homelessness, substance use, mental health, structural racism, health inequity, oppression and marginalization
• Experience working in a collaborative, multi-stakeholder environment supporting strategy or policy development

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of and understanding of Indigenous lived experience and a commitment to support truth and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples is preferred

Responsibilities

• Provide policy, research, analysis, and advisory support to advance Indigenous Relations and culturally informed decision-making across the Corporation.
• Participate as a member of the Divisional team, contributing to Divisional goals and objectives in a collaborative and professional manner.
• Provide policy, research, and analytical support to inform division-wide initiatives and corporate decision-making, with attention to equity, inclusion, and Indigenous relations considerations.
• Prepare briefing notes, reports, research summaries, and presentations for the Director and senior leadership to support informed decision-making, policy development, and issues management.
• Conduct research and analysis on emerging social, cultural, governance, and policy issues relevant to municipal priorities and Indigenous relations, identifying trends, risks and opportunities.
• Collaborate with Communications & Public Relations and other internal stakeholders to support clear, consistent, and culturally appropriate messaging related to policy initiatives and Indigenous relations work, as required.
• Support the implementation of the Indigenous Relations & Inclusion Strategy by providing advisory support across the Corporation, including guidance on Indigenous relations consideration, culturally informed practices, protocols, and respectful collaboration, as well as internal cultural awareness initiatives and corporate training for staff and Council.
• Support and contribute to the systemic review of City policies, programs, and practices to identify and address barriers to equity, inclusion, and culturally informed approaches.
• Provide coordination and administrative support to internal working groups or networks related to Community Strategies and Indigenous Relations as assigned.
• Facilitate the coordination and implementation of the Anti-Racism & Inclusion Accord, including tracking commitments, supporting internal collaboration, and contributing to reporting and continuous improvement.
• Provide confidential administrative, coordination, and logistical support to the Director – Community Strategies, including meeting preparation, documentation, and follow-up on sensitive matters.

Benefits

• A competitive salary that reflects your expertise
• A matching pension plan to help you build long-term financial security
• Comprehensive health, vision, and dental coverage, plus life insurance for peace of mind
• Generous paid vacation and holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave days when you need more time off
• Access to a confidential Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) and wellness initiatives to support your overall health
• Leadership development and tuition reimbursement programs, so you can continue to grow your skills and career
• A culture of recognition and appreciation, with staff events and programs that celebrate your contributions
• The opportunity to be part of a dedicated and highly respected team, supporting meaningful work across the Corporation

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree