About Us

Under the Ombudsman Act, the Office of the Ombudsman addresses complaints involving provincial or municipal government departments, agencies, boards, and commissions arising from the administration of provincial and municipal laws, and matters referred to the Office by a Committee of the House. The Office also has responsibility under the Public Interest Disclosure of Wrongdoing Act to investigate allegations of wrongdoing and to investigate complaints made or referred to the Office under the Nova Scotia House of Assembly Policy on the Prevention and Resolution of Harassment in the Workplace. 

We are non-partisan and operate as an independent agency. All complaints filed with the Office are confidential and not subject to Freedom of Information requests.

The Ombudsman considers and investigates complaints from people who believe they have been treated unfairly when using government services or when they believe a policy or procedure has not been followed correctly or is unfair, as well as initiates own-motion and systemic investigations. The Office also provides a proactive role in relation to programs and services for children, youth, seniors, and adult correctional facilities.

Even when a complaint is not supported, it presents an opportunity to review policies and procedures to ensure transparency and accountability in public service delivery.

About Our Opportunity

Reporting to the Manager of Youth and Seniors Services or the Manager of Investigation & Complaint Services, the duties and responsibilities of an Ombudsman Representative are governed by the Ombudsman Act and Regulations, as well as the Public Interest Disclosure of Wrongdoing Act and Regulations.  

Primary Accountabilities

Some of the primary accountabilities of this role include:

• Providing independent and impartial complaint resolution involving provincial and municipal government entities within the Province of Nova Scotia.
• Assessing, reviewing and investigating matters relating to the administration of legislation, regulations, policies and procedures affecting provincial and municipal government service delivery, including determining jurisdiction.
• Conducting administrative review investigations, own-motion, systemic and formal investigations consisting of interpreting legislation, conducting research, conducting interviews, and the preparation of written reports which may include recommendations, through the development of investigative summaries, briefings, and may result in consultative and final reports.
• Providing advice to management on investigations by having knowledge and a thorough understanding of programs and services delivered by provincial and municipal departments, agencies, boards and commissions.
• Promoting awareness, access and understanding of the function of the Ombudsman to citizens and government by conducting presentations, information sessions and site visits throughout Nova Scotia.
• And other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

University degree, or the equivalent in related experience is required.   Preference will be given to candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in a social science field (e.g. psychology, social work, public administration or law).

• Candidates must demonstrate a high degree of initiative, sound judgment and professionalism.
• Knowledge and experience conducting interviews and report writing is essential.
• Demonstrated research and analytical skills, conflict resolution experience and experience interpreting legislation, regulations, policies, and procedures are also required.
• Must have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both oral and written, and the ability to view matters objectively, thoroughly, and efficiently.
• Ability to interact with people of diverse backgrounds and experiences. 
• Experience conducting investigations is an asset.
• Experience in various computer applications, including Microsoft Office Suite, database, and internet browsers is essential. 
• Experience with developing and conducting presentations is required. 
• A valid Driver’s License and the ability to travel throughout the province, sometimes on short notice, is required and must be clearly identified in your resume or cover letter. 
• Proficiency in verbal and written communication in French is considered an asset.

Equivalency

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

LEADS:

The Government of Nova Scotia has adopted the LEADS Leadership Framework.  During the interview, candidates will be expected to express how they have demonstrated the key behaviours and capabilities required to effectively lead in a caring and inclusive environment. LEADS Domains includes Leads Self, Engage Others, Achieve Results, Develop Coalitions and Systems Transformation.

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and Union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as Health, Dental, Life Insurance, Pension, General Illness (Short and Long Term), Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs. Click here to learn more about our various benefits offerings and eligibility criteria.

Working Conditions

Work in office environment and external locations such as correctional institutions, secure care, long term care and adult/youth residential facilities.

Additional Information

This is a TERM employment opportunity with an anticipated end date of May 29, 2026. The appointment status (‘term’, ‘temporary’ or ‘casual’) is dependent on the start date of the successful candidate9

What We Offer

• Career development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career
• Engaging workplace: our employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in, we have forward-thinking policies and strategies
• Countless career paths
• A dynamic, client-focused office environment where service excellence and teamwork are our focus