Social Policy Researcher

Overview

UFCW Canada, the country’s leading and most progressive private sector union, is looking for a Summer Student for the position of Social Policy Researcher in Political Actions Department.

Job description

We are seeking a critically engaged and socially conscious undergraduate student, or graduate student to join our team as a Social Policy Research Analyst. This role is ideal for someone who wants to apply their research skills to real-world struggles for workers’ rights and social justice.

You will contribute to a high-priority research project that supports the union’s advocacy campaigns on issues such as fair wages, working conditions, equity, and public policy reform. Your work will directly inform reports, campaign materials, and policy positions used to advance workers’ interests.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth research on labour, economic, and social policy issues affecting workers
• Analyze qualitative and quantitative data to identify systemic trends, inequities, and policy gaps
• Draft clear, compelling research reports, briefing notes, and campaign materials tailored to both technical and public audiences
• Translate complex research findings into accessible language for advocacy and organizing purposes
• Support the development of evidence-based policy recommendations and advocacy strategies
• Assist in creating content for campaigns (e.g., fact sheets, backgrounders, messaging documents)
• Monitor current policy developments, legislation, and public discourse relevant to labour issues
• Collaborate with campaign, communications, and organizing teams to align research with advocacy goals

Qualifications

• Strong research, analytical, and critical thinking skills
• Demonstrated ability to write clearly, persuasively, and accessibly for different audiences
• Ability to connect research findings to broader social, economic, and political contexts
• Interest in labour movements, social justice, and advocacy work
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines
• Experience in advocacy, activism, or community organizing
• Experience with report writing, policy briefs, or campaign materials

What You’ll Gain

• Direct experience contributing to advocacy-driven research that supports real campaigns
• Experience in advocacy, activism, or community organizing
• Opportunity to see how research informs organizing, communications, and policy change
• Mentorship from experienced policy analysts, researchers, and labour advocates
• A portfolio of writing and research outputs with real-world impact

Participant Eligibility Requirements

• Currently enrolled in (preferably 3rd or 4th year) an undergraduate program in public policy, political science, sociology, economics, law, labour studies, or a related field
• Must be up to 30 years of age at the start of employment to meet federal youth funding requirements.
• Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act for the duration of the employment.
• Have a valid Social Insurance Number at the start of employment and be legally entitled to work in Canada.

This position is funded by the Government of Canada through the Canada Summer Jobs program.

UFCW Canada is an equal opportunity employer and Canada’s leading and most progressive trade union with over 250,000 members coast to coast. Members of equity-seeking groups are encouraged to self-identify. Women, racialized workers, workers of colour, workers with disabilities, workers who are members of 2SLGBTQI communities and Indigenous workers are encouraged to apply for this position.

Job Type: Seasonal

Contract length: 16 weeks

Pay: $25.00 per hour

Expected hours: 35 per week

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Etobicoke, ON M9W 6K4