Senior Program Analyst

Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association•Guelph, ON

1d•CA$61,500 - CA$72,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Program Analyst supports OSCIA’s delivery of cost-share, educational, and other programming by reviewing and processing applications and claims, supporting program development and reporting, managing program data, and engaging with stakeholders. This role also provides guidance and support on complex or escalated applications and claims, helping program analysts and producers navigate processes and resolve challenges effectively. This role contributes to effective program administration and provides responsive, professional customer service to Ontario producers and program partners.

Requirements

Post-secondary education in an agricultural or environmental-related field (e.g., soil science, animal biology, agronomy, agricultural business, resource management, geography).
Minimum 3 years of industry experience, preferably based in Ontario.
Strong understanding of agriculture, environmental and economic farm sustainability, biosecurity, soil health and water quality, and best management practices in Ontario
Ability to analyze complex issues, identify practical solutions, and implement effective approaches to address challenges.
Ability to interpret program requirements from agreements and translate them into clear, practical information that producers can easily understand and apply.
Excellent communication skills, including ability to communicate directly with producers via phone and email, social media, and report writing.
Strong organizational skills and proficiency in computer programs including WordPress, Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Ability to work independently and cooperatively in a team environment, consistently producing quality work and meeting deadlines under competing priorities, changing dynamics, and differing programs.
Ability to work through periods of high administrative and reporting requirements while remaining innovative and creative and seeking opportunities for improvement.
Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Knowledge of Ontario agriculture, environmental stewardship, and best management practices related to soil health and water quality.
Understanding of cost-share programming, applied research initiatives, and program evaluation concepts.
Strong analytical and administrative skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
Demonstrated ability to evaluate complex situations, apply sound judgment, and develop solutions that are practical, achievable, and aligned with organizational goals.
Effective written and verbal communication skills with ability to support farmers and stakeholders professionally.
Strong organizational and time management skills with ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 applications, including Excel, and comfort working with databases and reporting tools.
Ability to work collaboratively across teams and coordinate with internal and external partners.
Ability to interpret program requirements and apply them consistently when reviewing applications and claims.
Ability to adapt to changing program needs and support continuous improvement in program delivery.
Adaptability: Demonstrate a willingness to be flexible, versatile, and dynamic in a changing work environment while maintaining effectiveness and efficiency.
Ethical behaviour: Ensure personal behaviours align with the Association's core values and code of conduct.
Relationship development: Establish and maintain positive working relationships with others, internally and externally.
Effective communication: Speak, listen, and write in a precise, clear, and timely manner using appropriate and effective communication tools.
Client focus: Anticipate farmers needs and respond in an appropriate and timely manner, seeking to provide the highest quality service.
Teamwork development: Work cooperatively and effectively with others to set goals, resolve challenges, and make decisions that enhance cross-functional cooperation.
Initiative: Ability to assess and initiate tasks independently.
Decision-making: Assess role-based situations to determine the importance, risks, and make clear decisions in a timely manner.
Time management and organization: Set priorities, develop a task schedule, monitor progress towards deadlines.
Problem-solving: View problems as learning opportunities, focus on improving future results.
Cultural Competence: Value diversity and inclusivity, demonstrating an ability to work effectively with trust across various departments.
Continuous Learning: Participates in an environment of professional development and personal growth.

Nice To Haves

Practical farm experience is an asset.
Experience with data analysis software and GIS is an asset.
French language skills are an asset.

Responsibilities

Support the development, delivery, reporting, and evaluation of educational and cost-share programs for Ontario farmers.
Support the development of communication and promotional program materials.
Coordinate/facilitate discussions and meetings with internal staff and external stakeholders (e.g. academia, conservation authorities, farmers, etc.).
Support agreements with project stakeholders and partners, including work agreements and data management/sharing agreements.
Support the execution of special projects, as assigned, to help ensure the effective delivery of cost-share programs.
Provide guidance and support on escalated applications and claims, ensuring challenges are addressed efficiently and resolved in a manner that supports both OSCIA and producers.
Contribute to the development of educational materials and resources that support knowledge transfer, program awareness, and effective program uptake.
Provide insight and feedback in the development of program guides, ensuring eligibility requirements and key program information are accurate, clear, and presented in a way that is easy for producers to understand.
Review, evaluate, and process cost-share applications and claims from Ontario producers using internal data management systems.
Support data management, tracking, and reporting of performance measures and program deliverables for cost-share programs.
Maintain accurate documentation and records to support internal reporting and compliance requirements.
Assist with internal tracking systems and reporting tools to support program outcomes and continuous improvement.
Assist with quarterly, bi-annual, and annual performance reports by compiling and providing the required program performance information and data.
Provide high-quality customer service to Ontario producers by responding to inquiries in a timely, accurate, and professional manner.
Support producers by providing clear guidance on OSCIA program requirements, eligibility criteria, and application/claim processes.
Support the resolution of producer issues and concerns by collaborating with internal teams, providing guidance to Program Analysts, and escalating matters as required to ensure timely and effective solutions.
Promote a positive producer experience through proactive communication and consistent support.
Other duties as assigned.