Communications and Engagement Associate (Department Communications Advisor)

Communications and Engagement Associate (Department Communications Advisor) - (8638) Job Title: Communications and Engagement Associate (Department Communications Advisor)

Status: Temporary Full-Time

Temporary - Approximate length of assignment, in months: 20

Position Type: Replacement

Start Date: Per hour

Salary Grade: $48.82 - $53.06

Department: York Region -> Community & Health Services -> Strategies and Partnerships

Location: Hybrid work opportunities may apply. Strategies & Partnerships Branch - 17150 Yonge Street - Newmarket, ON L3Y 8V3 CA (Primary).

Job Description ABOUT US Almost 1.2 million residents call York Region home, making it one of the largest and fastest‑growing regions in Canada. The region covers about 1,800 sq km over nine municipalities and offers residents and businesses access to a broad selection of services and resources. Local government operates in a two‑tier structure, collaborating across municipalities to meet community needs.

WHAT WE OFFER

Defined Benefit Pension Program – Ontario Municipality Employees Retirement System (OMERS) with employer‑matched contributions from the date of hire.

Employer of Choice – Recognized as the highest‑ranking government employer in Canada and fourth overall among 300 organizations.

Benefits and Wellness – Employee health care spending account, 24/7 Employee and Family Assistance Program, corporate discounts, and purchase plans; casual employees can receive payment in lieu of benefits and/or vacation.

Inclusive and Diverse Workforce – A commitment to celebrating diversity and ensuring all individuals can participate freely in society, supported by a robust Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility program recognized by the United Nations and other organizations.

ABOUT THE ROLE Reporting to the Manager, Promotion and Education, you will develop, plan, implement and provide strategic communication and engagement advice to department clients; advise on project leadership, media relations, issues management and public engagement; and lead development of briefings, communications, presentations, and guidance documents. In partnership with Corporate Communications, you will support the department’s media relations, issues management, public engagement, and outreach efforts, as well as corporate‑wide initiatives and special projects.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

Provide communication and engagement counsel to client groups, determining appropriate media relations, issues management, and outreach approaches.

Lead development and implementation of strategic, audience‑specific communication and engagement initiatives, campaigns, events, and tactics to increase public awareness and advance department programs.

Monitor and evaluate progress of communication and engagement plans, recommending and implementing options for continuous improvement.

Research best practices and conduct research on relevant legislation, policies, and programs.

Draft, review, edit, and coordinate approval of communication and engagement products such as brochures, pamphlets, articles, and newsletters.

Support the department in responding to residents and other interested party inquiries, helping resolve concerns through education, information, and consultation.

Represent the department with interested groups, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities.

Ensure services meet Regional customer service standards.

Participate in events, outreach activities, committees, work groups, task forces, and special projects.

Maintain technical knowledge through seminars, conferences, training, and associated publications.

Perform other duties as assigned, in line with branch, department, and corporate goals.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

University Degrees in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Public Policy and Administration, or related field, or equivalent education and experience.

Minimum of three (3) years’ experience in strategic communications and/or engagement plans, executive‑level communication 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, following plain language best practices and Canadian Press Style Guide.

Experience fostering collaborative working relationships, leading multiple projects, and navigating change and adversity.

Experience handling confidential materials and making good judgment with politically sensitive matters.

Scheduled Weekly Hours: 35

Scheduled Shifts: Operational Hours

Close Date: March 2, 2026

# of Hires Needed: 1

Union: CUPE Local 4900

Please apply online by 5:00 PM EST of the closing date indicated above.

York Region is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to an inclusive, barrier‑free recruitment and selection process. We respect, encourage, and celebrate diversity, aiming to build a qualified workforce that reflects the population we serve. If you require accommodation under the Human Rights Code during the recruitment or 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 on request.

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Benefits and Perks .

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