Program Lead, Social Services Analyst

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 Job Description 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 special projects, as assigned; provide policy and program support to the Social Service Branch divisions, and interpret legislations and assess impact of legislative and policy changes. Research, analyze and evaluate social, economic, political environments and policies in a local and provincial context, evaluating applicability to Branch and Divisions and identifying best practices for inclusion in Regional program proposals. Gather and analyze information on Division and humanousing related issues; prepare committee reports, public reports, business cases, policy proposals, presentations, briefing notes and Council reports that identify impact and options analysis and statistical reports; monitor and review data to identify trends and develop community and Division strategies. Gather and analyze information, monitor and review data to identify trends and develop community and program strategies and identify impact and options for program improvements or expansion. Provide guidance, training, mentoring and coordinate, assign, schedule and check the work of assigned staff. Implement and create work plans including the scope of work and key deliverables, assigning and preparing timelines and deadlines for projects, while ensuring strong linkages across the branch, other departments and stakeholders. Respond to inquiries and resolve concerns, as appropriate. Ensure that services provided meet Regional customer service standards. WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR Successful completion of a University Degree or approved equivalent combination of education and experience. Minimum five (5) years’ experience in a municipal or provincial public policy development sector with responsibilities in leading complex project initiatives and program/policy development. Knowledge of legislation related to Social Service Branch responsibilities such as the Ontario Works Act or Child Care and Early Years Act. Knowledge of the Department’s program delivery operations, programs and services, the community served and client social issues. Demonstrated knowledge of contemporary social research and evaluation methods, including writing detailed reports and proposals. Please apply online by 5:00PM EST of the closing date indicated above. All employment opportunities are recorded on a 24‑hour Career Line and may be accessed by calling ext. 75508. We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please be advised, York Region uses email as the primary means of communication with candidates and does not use AI technology in any part of the recruitment process. Please ensure your email address is up to date, checked frequently (including your spam folder), and accepts messages from unknown users. 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 or call extension 75506. Accommodations for applicants with disabilities are available upon request during recruitment processes and throughout employment. Click here for more details on Benefits and Perks . #J-18808-Ljbffr