Location: Ottawa, ON
Job Type: Full-Time
Compensation: Competitive salary based on experience + benefits
Reports To: Director of Government Relations
About Blackbird Strategies:
Blackbird Strategies is a values-driven public affairs consultancy that specializes in government relations, strategic communications, and policy advisory services with a focus on serving Indigenous governments, organizations, and communities. We support our clients in navigating government systems, securing funding, advancing priorities, and building meaningful relationships with decision-makers.
Position Summary:
We are seeking a passionate and collaborative Government Relations Associate to join our team. This early-career role offers a unique opportunity to work on projects that support Indigenous priorities across a range of sectors, including economic development, health, justice, infrastructure, environment, and education. The ideal candidate is a strong communicator, policy-curious, and committed to advancing reconciliation through practical, on-the-ground work.
Key Responsibilities:
- Monitor policy, legislative, and political developments at the federal and provincial levels.
- Conduct research and analysis to support client advocacy, briefings, and submissions.
- Draft briefing notes, meeting materials, reports, and communications.
- Support client engagement strategies, including scheduling, planning, and preparing for meetings with government and stakeholders.
- Assist in the coordination of government relations campaigns.
- Contribute to internal knowledge sharing and tracking of key policy files.
Qualifications:
- 1–3 years of relevant experience (e.g. political staff, public service, Indigenous governance, advocacy, or consultancy).
- Strong understanding of Canadian political systems.
- Excellent research, writing, and organizational skills.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.
- A demonstrated strong attention to detail is a requirement.
- Lived experience or previous work with Indigenous communities or organizations is a significant asset.
- Previous work experience on Parliament Hill is an asset.
- Degree or diploma in political science, Indigenous studies, public policy, communications, or a related field.
- Must not be under a lobby ban.
What We Offer:
- A supportive, flexible, and collaborative team environment
- Opportunities for growth, mentorship, and professional development
- A commitment to work-life balance
- Competitive salary and benefits package
To Apply:
Please send your cv, a brief cover letter outlining your interest, and a short writing sample to lisa@blackbirdstrategies.ca. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
**Please only apply through the email address noted above. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. We thank you in advance for your interest.