Job Type & Hours: Temporary Full-time (18 months)
Hiring Range: $102,041 - $127,554
Union Affiliation: COPE
Posting Period: May 28, 2026 – June 28, 2026
Vacancy Status: This posting is for an existing vacancy in our office.
The Ombudsman is an independent, non-partisan Officer of the Ontario Legislature whose role is to ensure that the provincial government and broader public sector serve people fairly, transparently, and respectfully.
The Office of the Ontario Ombudsman reviews and resolves complaints about the administrative decisions and actions of more than 1,000 public sector and government bodies, in addition to French language services and the child protection sector.
About the role
As an investigator, you will be accountable for investigations from inception to completion, which includes identifying fairness issues; interviewing members of the public, public sector officials, and witnesses; gathering and analyzing information; and writing clear, comprehensive, and persuasive reports. Much of the work also includes using alternate dispute resolution mechanisms and responding to members of the public experiencing personal crisis. Your work will play a crucial role in the development of the Ombudsman’s recommendations to improve the fairness, transparency, and accountability of governance.
Key Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Reviewing complaint files and gathering necessary information to identify issues for resolution and/or investigation.
- Drafting investigation plans involving both individual and systemic issues with a focus on detailed fact-finding, fairness, timelines, and attention to detail
- Interviewing witnesses, gathering, and analyzing information, and writing clear, concise and comprehensive reports
- Writing and/or assisting in the preparation of high-profile special investigation reports, including findings, analysis, and recommendations
- Other duties related to investigations could be required.
What you will bring
Knowledge and experience:
- University degree (in a field such as law, psychology, political science, public administration, social work, criminal justice)
- Minimum three years of experience responding to or investigating complaints about government services or programs.
- Experience providing service to members of the public, including underserved and marginalized populations.
- Proven ability to interview members of the public and public sector officials at all organizational levels.
- Working knowledge of provincial government organizations, boards and agencies, as well as knowledge of the Ombudsman Act, Ombudsman Ontario jurisdiction, and the provincial government and its structures
- Demonstrated experience preparing investigation reports dealing with individual and systemic issues.
- Experience generating evidence-based and practical solutions to address complaints and systemic issues.
- Experience persuading parties to adopt a course of action.
Required skills and competencies:
- Strong analytical skills and the ability to assess relevant evidence impartially and objectively.
- Exceptional writing skills
- Ability to work effectively in a team-based environment and be open to consultation and collaboration in determining appropriate solutions for complaints and inquiries.
- Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to deal with emotionally charged situations and vulnerable complainants.
- Excellent organizational, administrative and time management skills to manage caseloads.
- Ability to work independently with minimum supervision.
Additional Requirements
- Eligibility to Work in Canada: Candidates must be eligible to work in Canada.
- On-Site / Hybrid Work Requirement: This role is based in our Toronto office at 483 Bay Street. Hybrid work arrangements are supported, with an expectation of regular and ongoing on-site presence.
Why Join Us?
At Ombudsman Ontario, you will contribute to work that makes a real difference and strengthens public trust in government services. We foster a workplace where diverse perspectives are valued, inclusion is intentional, and continuous learning is encouraged. Your voice matters here, and the work you do will directly influence fairness, accountability, and positive change across the province.
We are committed to reconciliation, equity, accessibility, and creating an environment where everyone feels they belong. If you believe in the work we do and feel your experience aligns with what we are looking for, we encourage you to apply, even if you do not meet every qualification listed.
Application Instructions
Please include a cover letter with your resume, describing your experience, achievements, and why you are interested in the role with Ombudsman Ontario.
We are dedicated to building a workforce that reflects diverse talent, and we are committed to ensuring an inclusive and accessible experience for every applicant. If you require an accommodation during any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us, and we will work with you to support your needs.
Technology may be used to assist with managing applications. All candidates are reviewed by a Recruiter, and selection decisions are made by people—not automated systems.
We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for interviews will be contacted.
