Program Lead, Social Services Analyst; Policy, Research and Initiatives Advisor

Program Lead, Social Services Analyst (Policy, Research and Initiatives Advisor) - (8095)

Salary Grade: $59.13 - $64.28

Location:

Hybrid work opportunities may apply – CA SS SA and HCP Newmarket – 17150 Yonge Street – Newmarket, ON L3Y 8V3 CA (Primary)

Scheduled Weekly

Hours:

35

Scheduled

Shifts:

8:30 – 16:30

Close Date:
February 2, 2026

Union: CUPE Local 4900

ABOUT US

Almost 1.2 million residents call York Region home, making it one of the largest regions in Canada – and the fastest growing with a population that’s expected to grow to more than 2 million by 2041. Our geography, which is comprised of about 1,800 square kilometers over nine different municipalities, is as beautiful, interesting and diverse as our people. Local government is organized in a two-tier structure and we work together with our local municipalities to provide residents and businesses access to a broad selection of services and resources.

WHAT WE OFFER

Consistently named one of Canada’s Best Employers by Forbes, we offer a collaborative, progressive workplace that takes pride in our organizational culture and is committed to living The 13+ Factors of Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace – aligned with our vision to create strong, caring and safe communities both within and outside our walls.

• Defined Benefit Pension Program – With the Ontario Municipality Employees Retirement System (OMERS) defined benefit pension plan, you can confidently retire knowing that you will have income for life. Eligibility from date of hire as a full-time employee and includes employer‑matched contributions.
• Employer of Choice – Recognized as the highest‑ranking government employer in Canada and fourth overall among 300 organizations.
• Benefits and Wellness – Employees and their loved ones have access to an employee health care spending account, access to a 24/7 Employee and Family Assistance Program and corporate discounts and purchase plans for day‑to‑day products and services. Casual employees are eligible to receive payment in lieu of benefits and/or vacation.
• Inclusive and Diverse Workforce – We’re committed to fostering an environment that celebrates all dimensions of diversity and ensures everyone can develop to their full potential, participate freely in society and live with respect, dignity and freedom from discrimination. Our robust Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility program continues to grow, and has been recognized by the United Nations and many other organizations for our leadership.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Reporting to the Supervisor, Program Policy and Planning, the Program Lead is responsible for providing policy and analytical support to the Social Services Branch programs, including Ontario Works, Employment Services, Children’s Programs, and Homelessness Community Programs; supporting the development of innovative and strategic program policies and plans; researching and analyzing projects; leading outcome‑based program development and project teams; developing cross‑functional linkages to ensure that Regional policies and programs align with Social Service outcomes;

developing innovative and strategic responses to social programs and plans to address human service needs; interpreting and communicating relevant legislation (i.e., Ontario Works) and policies to staff; and providing guidance, training, mentoring, and coordinating, assigning, scheduling and checking the work of assigned staff and ensuring a safe working environment.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Develop and implement work plans for program policy and community development strategies, ensuring strong linkages across the Branch with other Departments and stakeholders.
• Develop program policies and implementation strategies for Branch‑wide and Divisional initiatives to meet provincial legislation, regulatory requirements and regionally‑mandated programs and make recommendations to the Supervisor and Manager; provide policy interpretation to the Branch, Department and Regional staff, clients and community agencies.
• Lead cross‑functional project teams to develop and implement Division, Department and corporate priorities and programs; lead and/or participate on…