Public Policy and Government Relations Specialist

JOB TITLE: Policy and Government Relations Specialist

LOCATION: Calgary or Edmonton, or remote in Alberta

Alberta Ecotrust Foundation is a trusted leader in advancing environmental and climate solutions across Alberta. We collaborate with diverse partners from government, industry, non-profits, and Indigenous communities to create a future where both people and nature thrive. Alberta Ecotrust is a founding member of the Low Carbon Cities Canada network, a national initiative accelerating equitable climate solutions in cities.

We respectfully acknowledge that our programs are delivered across the province of Alberta, comprising Treaty 4, Treaty 6, Treaty 7, Treaty 8 and Treaty 10 territory, the traditional lands of First Nations and Métis Peoples. We are committed to creating a safe, warm and welcoming environment for all people interested in applying for our positions.

Policy and Government Relations Specialist

We are seeking a highly motivated and collaborative Policy and Government Relations Specialist to coordinate our government relations activities, policy advocacy and government funding relationships in alignment with Alberta Ecotrust’s Advocacy Framework.

Reporting to the Director, Development, the individual will work in close partnership with our Executive Team, Leadership Team and subject matter experts. This position will take a lead role in developing and maintaining relationships with government stakeholders across municipal, provincial and federal levels to advance Alberta Ecotrust’s priorities.

This is a hybrid position with an expectation to be in the Edmonton or Calgary office at least once per week. Some travel, evening and weekend work may be required.

Key Responsibilities

• Government relations: Build and maintain strong relationships with government officials, policymakers and industry stakeholders to advocate for Alberta Ecotrust’s interests.
• Fund development: Collaborate with the Fund Development team on proposals and Cases for Support directed to all levels of government; lead government stewardship activities.
• Policy support and advocacy: Develop position statements, support lobbying efforts and prepare leadership for government meetings and events.
• Environmental scanning: Monitor legislative and regulatory developments relevant to Alberta Ecotrust’s focus areas.
• Coordination and administration: Track government interactions in our Client Relationship Management system; support coalition and partnership work.
• Communications: Partner with the Communications team to create materials for government relations and advocacy efforts.
• Monitoring and evaluation: Maintain transparency in advocacy activities through the Policy Advocacy Register; track and report outcomes.

Skills and expertise

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Business Administration, Environmental Science or a related field. A Master’s degree is an asset.
• Experience: 5+ years in government relations, public policy, fund development or related fields, with experience in Alberta’s provincial and municipal governments (Calgary/Edmonton preferred).
• Advocacy and policy knowledge: Proven ability to develop and implement advocacy strategies; understanding of environmental issues, regulatory frameworks, and opportunities.
• Relationship building: Demonstrated success in stakeholder engagement, networking, and relationship stewardship.
• Skills: Strong project management, communication, negotiation, and organizational skills; ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Assets: Experience working with Indigenous communities or organizations; familiarity with CRM systems.

Workplace culture and position location

Alberta Ecotrust offers a flexible and inclusive workplace culture built on collaboration, innovation and shared commitment to climate and environmental action. Staff work in a hybrid model, with flexible office hours and remote options.

• In Calgary, our office is a casual heritage building downtown with great transit access.
• In Edmonton, we work in a co-working space with meeting and collaboration areas.

The successful candidate will be based in Alberta, with a requirement to be in Calgary or Edmonton at least once a week.

Renumeration

• Salary: $75,000 – $90,000 annually, based on experience
• Hours: 37.5-hour work week with every third Friday off
• Vacation: Three weeks paid vacation, plus flexible work arrangements
• Benefits: Health and dental benefits after three months of employment
• Term: This is a term position until March 31, 2028, with possibility of extension depending on funding

How to apply

1. Submit your application via Alberta Ecotrust’s online recruitment system.
2. Include a cover letter and resume (combined maximum three pages).
3. Applications are due by Friday, October 3.
4. You must be legally eligible to work in Canada

Alberta Ecotrust is an equal opportunity employer and strives to build a team that reflects the diversity of our communities. We welcome applications from traditionally underrepresented groups, including women, Indigenous people, visible minorities, LGBTQ2SI+ individuals, and persons with disabilities. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact n.ludwig@albertaecotrust.com.

We thank everyone who applies. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.