Job ID

78738

Job Title

Public Affairs Officer

Regular/Temporary

Temporary

Location

Central Campus

Open Date

2026/09/16

Job Type

Limited Term (<12 months)

Close Date

2026/09/25

Employee Group

Interim

Favorite Job

Department

COMM Government Relations

Full/Part Time

Full-Time

Job Code

MJD101

Existing Vacancy

Yes - Newly Created Position

Contract Duration

3 Months

Target Number of Openings

1

Hours per Week

35

Posting Details

Government Relations Officer

McMaster University is seeking a Government Relations Officer to support the University's government relations priorities and engagement with government partners.

This is an opportunity to work at the intersection of government, public policy, research and higher education. The team supports government engagement, advocacy and strategic initiatives, while monitoring emerging issues and helping connect McMaster's expertise and priorities with government and community partners.

For someone who is curious, a solid writer and eager to learn, this role offers an opportunity to build government relations expertise while contributing to work with meaningful impact.

Full-time, limited-term appointment to December 31, 2026, with possibility of extension.

Hourly Wage Rate: $32.98 – $42.68/hour The posted hiring range reflects McMaster's typical hiring range for this position. The actual starting rate will be determined based on relevant experience, qualifications, internal equity, and market conditions. This appointment is initially ineligible for benefits. Benefit eligibility, if applicable, will be determined in accordance with University policy.

About McMaster University

McMaster University is where bold ideas become real-world impact. Guided by our strategic plan, Bolder Together , we're building on our strengths in research, education and community while continuing to evolve as a leading research-intensive university.





With more than 37,000 students, 8,000 faculty and staff, and a globally recognized research enterprise, McMaster is known for research that improves lives, teaching that puts learners first and a collaborative approach to tackling complex challenges.

About Government Relations

McMaster Government Relations works across the University to advance McMaster's priorities and strengthen relationships with governments at the municipal, provincial and federal levels.

Key responsibilities

- Research, write and edit clear, concise materials, including briefing notes, correspondence, backgrounders and other materials to support government relations and advocacy initiatives.
- Monitor government priorities, policies and announcements, particularly those related to post-secondary education, and summarize key developments for McMaster.
- Support government relations strategies, meetings, events, visits and other engagement activities.
- Prepare presentations and other communications materials, and contribute to internal communications as required.
- Build positive relationships with University leaders, government representatives and other partners.
- Support government relations activities with municipal, provincial and federal governments.
- Maintain accurate information and track activities and results to support the Government Relations portfolio.
- Participate in University-wide projects, meetings and working groups as required.

What you bring

- A university degree in Political Science,



Public Administration or a related field. A McMaster University degree is an asset.
- Three years of relevant experience in government relations, public policy, communications, research, government or a related field.
- Strong writing and editing skills, with the ability to research, synthesize and communicate complex information clearly and concisely.
- Experience preparing briefing notes, backgrounders or other concise written materials.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
- Curiosity about government, public policy and post-secondary education, with a proactive and collaborative approach to learning and problem-solving.

Assets

- Experience monitoring public policy and legislative developments.
- Knowledge of government, government programming and government decision-making processes.
- Experience working in government or a government relations-related field.
- Event planning experience. Experience working in a university environment.

How To Apply To apply for this job, please submit your application online. Hybrid Work Language To ensure an ongoing and vibrant University community that meets the needs of our students, staff and faculty and supports the University mission, ability to work on-site continues to be a requirement for most University positions. The University is supportive of exploring flexible work arrangements that effectively balance operational needs and employee interests.

AI Statement

McMaster and its third-party partners may use AI tools to screen, assess, or select applicants during the hiring process. Please note that currently our recruitment platform does not use AI nor is it part of our current recommended recruitment process.

📌 Public Affairs Officer (Canada)
🏢 McMaster University
📍 Canada