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, you will develop and implement strategic approaches, plans and policies in collaboration with internal and external partners which address emerging community and social issues. This role will primarily be focused on advancing equity initiatives across the organization. Primary duties include:

• Collaborate across Community Strategies 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.
• 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 programs (Teams, Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) is an asset.
• Demonstrated experience within the field of equity, diversity and inclusion is considered an asset. Lived experience is also considered an asset.
• Understanding of the City's Social Wellbeing Policy and related Council Advisory committees is an asset.
• Familiarity with trends and issues relevant to community would be considered an asset.
• Strong communication skills, including presentation and group facilitation.
• Demonstrated strategic thinking, adaptability, political acumen, data analysis, and project management skills.
• Ability to think creatively to solve complex problems.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain collaborative relationships. Ability to negotiate and build consensus with diverse internal and external interested parties.

Pre-employment Requirements

• 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.

Union: CUPE Local 38

Business Unit: Community Strategies

Position Type: 2 Temporary (up to 18 months)

Location: Avenue SE

Compensation: Pay Grade 13 $ per hour (2026 Rates)

Days of Work: This position typically works a 5 day

work week, with 1 day off in each 3 week cycle.

Hours of work: Standard 35 hour work week

Audience: Internal/External

Apply By: January 20, 2026

Job ID #: 313093