Communications and Engagement Associate (Department Communications Advisor) at York Region — NeverHard

Communications and Engagement Associate (Department Communications Advisor) 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 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 Programand 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 Manager, Promotion and Education, is responsible for developing, planning, implementing and providing strategic communication and engagement advice to department clients; providing project leadership advice and communication and engagement best practices to department senior management, project teams and interested groups; leading the development of briefings, communications and presentations on behalf of department management; developing communication and engagement guidance documents for staff; in conjunction with Corporate Communications, supporting the department’s media relations, issues management and public engagement and outreach efforts; providing support for corporate-wide initiatives, programs, special projects and communications. WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING Provides communications (including social marketing) and engagement counsel to client groups to determine most appropriate communications, media relations, issues management, and engagement and outreach approaches and strategies. Leads the development and implementation of strategic, audience-specific, communication and engagement initiatives, campaigns, events and tactics aimed at increasing public awareness, information sharing and outreach, and advancing the delivery of department programs and services. Proactively monitors and evaluates progress of communications and engagement plans to identify opportunities for continuous improvement and recommends and implements options and/or course of action; provides strategic department communication and engagement advice and tactics. Conducts research on best practices, as directed, to support effective communications and engagement. Drafts, reviews, edits and coordinates approvals of communications and engagement products such as, but not limited to brochures, pamphlets, articles and newsletters, in conjunction with management, and all aimed at providing residents and interested parties clear and consistent messages and information. Researches various legislations, policies and programs for background material, as required. Supports the department in responding directly to residents and other interested party inquiries and helps resolve concerns through education, information and consultation. Represents the department with interested groups and is responsible for ensuring representation aligns with Departmental and Regional strategic priorities. Ensures that services provided meet Regional customer service standards. Participates and assists with events, outreach, committees, work groups, task forces and special projects, as assigned. Maintains technical and professional knowledge by attending seminars, conferences and training as required, reviewing associated publications. Performs other duties as assigned, in accordance with branch, department and corporate goals. WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR Successful completion of a University Degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Public Policy and Administration or related field or approved equivalent combination of education and experience. Minimum of three (3) years’ experience in the development and delivery of strategic communications and/or engagement plans, executive-level communications and engagement support and advice. Strong knowledge of communication and engagement practices and theory, including strategic communications, issues management, and outreach best practices. Highly developed writing, editing and presenting skills, using plain language best practices and Canadian Press Style Guide. Demonstrated experience fostering cooperative and collaborative working relationships, leading multiple projects, overcoming change and adversity. Experience dealing with confidential materials and exercising good judgement and discretion in dealing with politically sensitive and confidential matters. Location Hybrid work opportunities may apply - CA Strategies&Partnerships Branch - 17150 Yonge Street - Newmarket, ON L3Y 8V3 CA (Primary) Scheduled Weekly Hours 35 Scheduled Shifts Operational Hours Close Date July 27, 2026 # of Hires Needed 1 Union CUPE Local 4900 York Region is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection process. We respect, encourage and celebrate our diversity, aiming to build a qualified workforce that reflects the population we serve. Should you require an accommodation under the Human Rights Code during the recruitment and selection process, including accessible formats and communication supports, please email careers@york.ca or call 1-877-464-9675 extension 75506. Accommodations for applicants with disabilities are available upon request during recruitment processes and throughout employment. #J-18808-Ljbffr