Now Hiring

Reports To: Director, Communications and External Relations
Location: Hybrid (Edmonton, Alberta)

About PARA

The Professional Association of Resident Physicians of Alberta (PARA) represents over 1,700 resident physicians training in Alberta. As the official voice of resident physicians, we advocate for their rights and well-being, while ensuring they have the support needed to become the next generation of health care leaders.

Position Overview

The Advisor, Policy and Communications will play a key role in advancing PARA’s government relations and external affairs work through policy analysis, stakeholder engagement and strategic communications.

This position is ideal for a professional with experience in government, policy or a related environment who is looking to take on a dynamic role at the intersection of policy and communications, with opportunities to contribute to strategic initiatives and external engagement.

The Advisor will monitor emerging issues, provide analysis and support government engagement, while developing high-quality briefing materials and key messaging.

The ideal candidate is a strong writer and critical thinker who understands how government operates, can navigate complex policy environments and is comfortable working both independently and collaboratively. They are proactive, bring forward insights and recommendations and are comfortable operating with a high degree of autonomy. They are able to connect the dots across issues and contribute to informed, timely decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

Policy & Government Relations

• Support the development and implementation of PARA’s government relations strategy
• Build and maintain relationships with government officials, ministry staff and key system partners
• Monitor political and policy developments, identify emerging issues and proactively advise on implications and potential responses
• Conduct research and analysis on issues impacting resident physicians
• Provide analysis and input on policy issues and contribute to materials supporting government engagement and advocacy efforts

Strategic Communications

• Draft briefing notes, speaking points, key messages and background materials for leadership
• Support development of messaging for government and external stakeholders
• Translate complex policy issues into clear, concise and compelling communications
• Support issues management by identifying risks and drafting responses for sensitive or high-profile topics
• Provide input on communications materials to ensure policy accuracy and alignment

Funding & Strategic Initiatives

• Support the development of funding proposals and grant applications
• Identify and research potential funding opportunities aligned with PARA priorities
• Assist with reporting and accountability requirements related to funded initiatives

Collaboration & Organizational Support

• Work closely with the Communications team to align policy messaging with broader communications efforts
• Support preparation for stakeholder meetings, announcements and advocacy efforts
• Provide insight on emerging issues to inform PARA’s strategic priorities and external positioning
• Contribute to cross-functional projects related to PARA’s strategic priorities

General

• Takes direction from the Director, Communications and External Relations on all matters pertaining to the role
• Other duties as required

Qualifications and Skills

• An undergraduate degree in public policy, political science, communications or a related field
• Minimum five years of related experience in government, policy or a similar environment
• Experience working in or with government (e.g., ministry, minister’s office or stakeholder relations role) is strongly preferred
• Exceptional writing skills, with experience drafting briefing notes, policy documents and strategic communications materials
• Strong understanding of government decision-making processes
• Ability to analyze complex issues and provide clear, strategic advice
• Proactive and self-motivated, with the ability to take initiative, anticipate needs and drive work forward independently
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment

Why Join Us?

• Hybrid work schedule
• Three weeks of vacation plus an additional paid week off during December’s holiday break
• Paid parking for in-office days
• RRSP contribution
• A comprehensive benefit plan and a health spending account
• Professional development opportunities for growth and advancement within the association

Application Process

If you’re a motivated professional looking to contribute to meaningful policy and strategic communications work, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume, cover letter and salary range expectations to [email protected] by May 18, 2026.

We appreciate all applicants for their interest in this position; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.