The Ombudsman is an independent, impartial officer of the Legislature that resolves and investigates complaints about Ontario government organizations, broader public sector bodies, including municipalities, universities and school boards, child protection services, and compliance with the French Language Services Act.
The Ombudsman recommends solutions to individual and systemic administrative problems, and promotes fairness, accountability and transparency in the public sector as well as respect for French language service rights and the rights of children and youth.
About the job
This opportunity will appeal to Investigators who are keen to be part of a world-renowned office with a proven record of improving the fairness, accountability and transparency of government and public services. Investigators at Ombudsman Ontario are responsible for both leading and working as a team on a diverse range of administrative fairness and maladministration issues.
As an investigator, you will be accountable for investigations from inception to completion, which includes identifying fairness issues; interviewing members of the public, public sector officials, and witnesses; gathering and analyzing information; and writing clear, comprehensive, and persuasive reports. Much of the work also includes using alternate dispute resolution mechanisms and responding to members of the public experiencing personal crisis. Your work will play a crucial role in the development of the Ombudsman's recommendations to improve the fairness, transparency and accountability of governance.
What you bring to the team
Responsibilities
- Reviewing complaint files and gathering necessary information to identify issues for resolution and/or investigation
- Drafting investigation plans involving both individual and systemic issues with a focus on detailed fact-finding, fairness, timelines and attention to detail
- Interviewing witnesses, gathering and analyzing information, and writing clear, concise and comprehensive reports
- Writing and/or assisting in the preparation of high-profile special investigation reports including findings, analysis and recommendations
- Assessing potential for early resolution of cases and taking appropriate steps to facilitate resolution
- Other duties related to investigations could be required.
Knowledge and experience:
- University degree (in a field such as law, psychology, political science, public administration, social work, criminal justice)
- Minimum three years of experience responding to or investigating complaints about government services or programs
- Experience providing service to members of the public, including underserved and marginalized populations
- Proven ability to interview members of the public and public sector officials at all organizational levels
- Working knowledge of provincial government organizations, boards and agencies, as well as knowledge of the Ombudsman Act, Ombudsman Ontario jurisdiction, and the provincial government and its structures
- Demonstrated experience preparing investigation reports dealing with individual and systemic issues
- Experience generating evidence-based and practical solutions to address complaints and systemic issues
- Experience persuading parties to adopt a course of action
- Proficiency in oral and written communication in English is required; proficiency in oral and written communication in French is an asset.
Required skills and Competencies:
- Strong analytical skills and the ability to impartially and objectively assess relevant evidence
- Exceptional writing skills
- Ability to work effectively in a team-based environment, and be open to consultation and collaboration in determining appropriate solutions for complaints and inquiries
- Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to deal with emotionally charged situations and vulnerable complainants
- Excellent organizational, administrative and time management skills to manage caseloads
- Ability to work independently with minimum supervision.
Additional requirements:
Please include a cover letter with your résumé, describing your experience/achievements working in investigations and why you are interested in a role with Ombudsman Ontario
Must be eligible to work in Canada and work from the office as per work requirements.
We are currently working in a hybrid work environment, currently 2 days out of the office (subject to change). Our work location is 483 Bay Street, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C9.
Interested candidates are invited to apply at: https://ombudsmanontario.startdate.ca/#/apply/public/272?language=enOur recruitment practices reflect the Ontario Ombudsman's continuing goal of encouraging a diverse and inclusive workplace.
Accommodations in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code will be provided.
Only applicants selected to participate in the recruitment process will be contacted.
Please apply on our careers website at: https://www.ombudsman.on.ca/what-we-do/careers/current-opportunities