TORONTO URBAN FELLOW RESEARCH ASSOCIATE

Toronto is Canada’s largest city, the fourth largest in North America, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. Consistently ranked one of the world’s most livable cities, we are a global centre for business, finance, arts and culture. Join the award-winning Toronto Public Service as Toronto Urban Fellows, Research Associate within our various divisions. 

The City of Toronto is committed to fostering a position and progressive workforce reflecting the citizens we serve and promoting diversity at all levels in a dynamic and inclusive environment. The City of Toronto encourages all applicants and employees to bring their whole self and allow your identity and lived experience to inform how you contribute to your work, daily practice and, ultimately, the success of the City.

Interested applicants are welcome to join us at our info session on April 7, 2026 at 1 p.m., https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/ca64fc11-7bdd-4402-b8e8-9efc9d64e8c8@f0bc8ec6-9ed8-4d0c-9189-411ad949cc65

Job Summary:

To provide research, analysis and project support related to social, economic or public policy, urban affairs and government services as part of the Toronto Urban Fellows program.

Major Responsibilities:

• Assists senior staff in analyzing corporate and/or operational policy issues, formulating research objectives and designing and developing research projects from an interdisciplinary perspective
• Applies an understanding of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies
• Provides research support and conducts project research in a number of areas including corporate policy development, intergovernmental relations, government practices and procedures, civic engagement, and performance monitoring systems
• Develops and implements data collection instruments and research methods
• Reviews and analyzes statistical data, external reports and research studies, and existing and proposed policies
• Assists senior staff in identifying options, assessing implications and developing implementation strategies on project work
• Conducts analysis and assesses impacts of government policy, legislative and budgetary proposals, from all orders of government
• Conducts research and prepares reports and summaries on subject matter
• Prepares background studies and briefing notes for projects and assignments, as required
• Provides support as required in the preparation of reports, briefing material and presentations
• Liaises with program staff and external organizations during the course of research and analysis
• Demonstrates an understanding of equity, diversity, and inclusion and is able to use this knowledge and/or lived experience to inform work, research and projects
• Strong understanding of the lived realities of people from equity deserving groups
• Knowledge of supports, tools, theories, concepts and research methods utilized to address systemic inequities with an ability to apply these in practice
• Performs other related duties as assigned

Key Qualifications:

Your application must describe your qualifications as they relate to:

• Recently completed graduate level education, (within the past three years, not earlier than January 2023), at a Master’s level or greater, including LLB/JD.
• Minimum one year work experience in social, economic or public policy, urban affairs, government services, the management of complex organizations or related discipline.
• Experience utilizing project management skills and implementing complex projects.
• Experience facilitating project related public consultation meetings and/or supporting stakeholder engagement processes.
• Experience in research, analysis and interpretation of qualitative and quantitative data.
• Experience with preparing detailed documents, such as project plans, research proposals, reports or policies.
• Academic and/or work experience in areas such as Finance, Accounting or Information and Technology is considered an asset but not necessary.
• Excellent strategic thinking skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with a variety of community and sector organizations, all City service areas, residents, representatives from various levels of government, elected officials and other related stakeholders.
• Sound judgement and ability to handle matters of a confidential/sensitive nature.
• Must be legally entitled to work in Canada and have a valid work permit that allows you to work for the City of Toronto.

Cover Letter Requirements:

• Your cover letter (maximum 500 words) should demonstrate why you are an exceptional candidate for the Toronto Urban Fellows program
• We encourage applicants from equity deserving groups to apply for the Toronto Urban Fellows Program and share how your lived experience has contributed to your practice and career
• Please organize your cover letter into the three sections indicated below and include the requested information

Section 1: My Contribution and Expectations

• With reference to your education, experience and professional goals, indicate what you expect to contribute to and gain from the Toronto Urban Fellows program, if selected.

Section 2: My Interest

• Describe your interest in and/or engagement with urban issues, public service and/or the City of Toronto.

Section 3: Significant Achievements/Accomplishments

• Describe relevant educational, professional, and/or community service achievements and awards (e.g. scholarships, research grants, publications, leadership positions, etc.).