Issue Strategist

If you are committed to public service, enjoy collaborating with others, share our values and have a desire to learn and grow, join

The City of Calgary. City employees deliver the services, run the programs and operate the facilities which make a difference in our community. We support work-life balance, promote physical and psychological safety, and offer competitive wages, pensions, and benefits. Together we make Calgary a great place to make a living, a great place to make a life. The City is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive and equitable workplace which is representative of the community we serve. We welcome those who have demonstrated a commitment to upholding the values of equity, diversity, inclusion, anti-racism and reconciliation. Applications are encouraged from members of groups that are historically disadvantaged and underrepresented. Accommodations are available during the hiring process, upon request. 

As an Issue Strategist in the Community Strategies Business Unit, you will develop and implement strategic approaches, plans and policies in collaboration with internal and external parties which address emerging community and social issues. You will also provide strategic leadership across a wide range of issues and portfolios, including accessibility, social wellbeing, gender equity, poverty reduction/affordability, age-friendly/seniors, and immigration/settlement. Primary duties include:

• Collaborate across the Community Strategies Business Unit and with other business units, community-based agencies, other government partners and citizens to develop comprehensive community strategies.
• Communicate complex subject matter to multiple audiences and advocate where appropriate through a variety of mechanisms.
• Investigate and apply best practices and innovative approaches to address specific social and community issues.
• Act as a resource by providing informed opinions based on research, best practice, and engagement.
• Lead groups with diverse interests and agendas toward common outcomes, including related Council and community advisory committees.
• Respond to emerging social issues identified by Council or Administration.

Qualifications 

• A degree in Social Work, Public Administration, Policy Development, or a related field and at least 7 years' experience in the areas of policy and program development, systems planning, project management, community development and/or government/partner relations; OR
• A master's degree in Social Work, Public Administration, Policy Development, or a related field and at least 5 years' experience in the areas of policy and program development, systems planning, project management, community development and/or government/partner relations.
• Intermediate proficiency using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Teams) is an asset.
• Experience using online tools for community engagement is considered an asset.
• Understanding of complex community and social issues and the City's Social Wellbeing Policy is an asset.
• Strong communication skills, including presentation and group facilitation.
• Demonstrated strategic thinking, adaptability, political acumen, and project management skills.
• Ability to think creatively to solve complex problems and engage effectively with diverse partners.

Pre-employment Requirements 

• Applicants will be tested for appropriate skills.
• Successful applicants must provide proof of qualifications.

Workstyle

• This position may be eligible to work from home for at least part of the time as one of several flexible work options available to City employees. These arrangements depend on the operational requirements of the role, employee suitability, and are subject to change based on operational needs and corporate direction. 

Position and Pay Information

• Business Unit: Community Strategies
• Union: CUPE Local 38
• Position Type: 2 Temporary (up to 14 months)
• Compensation: Pay Grade 13 $50.92 - 68.15 per hour
• Hours of work: Standard 35 hour work week
• Days of work: This position works a 5-day work week with 1 day off in a 3 week cycle.
• Location: 315 10 Avenue SE
• Audience: Internal/External
• Apply By: September 4, 2026
• Job ID:  315147