Canada Recruitment of Policy Leaders 2026

Fisheries & Oceans Canada Recruitment of Policy Leaders | Federal Policy Careers Canada

The Recruitment of Policy Leaders (RPL) is a special hiring programme run by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (on behalf of the federal government) to build a pool of exceptional candidates qualified for mid- to senior-level policy-related roles in Canada’s public service. (dfo-mpo.gc.ca)

Instead of the typical entry-level hiring routes, RPL recruits people with strong academic backgrounds, professional experience, leadership potential or policy-relevant expertise — ready to contribute directly to government policy formulation and decision-making.

 Who Can Apply / Who Is the Programme For

RPL welcomes individuals from diverse academic and professional backgrounds — not just environmental or marine science, but any field relevant to public policy, governance, economy, social issues, environment, security, and more.

Ideal applicants typically have:

• Strong analytical, research or policy-relevant experience or academic credentials
• Leadership, civic engagement, or demonstrated interest in public service or public policy
• Capacity to contribute to national-level policy issues across a broad range of themes (economy, environment, social justice, indigenous relations, security, innovation, etc.)

The programme also emphasizes equity, diversity and inclusion — with special recruitment streams for Indigenous peoples and persons with disabilities at times.

 What the Programme Offers & What Policy Leaders Do

Once selected through RPL, candidates become part of a “talent pool” that may be hired into mid- to senior-policy analyst roles (or similar) across various federal departments — including but not limited to environment, resource management, social policy, security, trade, and more.

As policy professionals under this programme, you may:

• Propose strategic and innovative policy solutions on national issues
• Advise senior officials on policy formulation and government decisions
• Work across departments and policy areas depending on assignment
• Engage in research, stakeholder consultation, policy analysis, drafting legislation or regulatory frameworks — depending on role and department

Joining through RPL can accelerate career growth: instead of starting at junior-analyst levels, you may enter at more advanced levels — reflecting prior education, experience or demonstrated potential.

 Why the RPL Programme Matters

• Strengthens public service policy capacity. The RPL aims to bring in highly qualified people to help address complex national challenges — from environmental & resource management to economy, social policy, security, and more.
• Attracts diverse talent. By opening opportunities across disciplines and welcoming applicants from different backgrounds — not just traditional policy or public administration graduates — the programme promotes fresh perspectives.
• Offers career acceleration. For those with proven skills or achievements, RPL can provide an accelerated pathway into influential positions without the long seniority climb typical in public service hiring.
• Opportunity to influence national priorities. Selected candidates have potential to shape public policy on issues critical to Canada’s future — environment, fisheries, indigenous relations, climate change, security, social equity, and more.

Application & Selection — What to Know

• The RPL campaign opens periodically (e.g. 2025–2026 cycle is active) — you need to watch for announcement windows.
• You’ll have to submit application materials that reflect your academic/professional background, policy-relevant experience or interest, and evidence of leadership or relevant competencies.
• Given competition and selective hiring, a strong profile (academic + experience + motivation + policy-relevant understanding) improves your chances.
• If shortlisted, expect an interview and/or assessment process before being placed into the talent pool.

If you are passionate about public policy, governance, environment, social issues or national development — and you believe you have the academic strength, experience, and drive to contribute meaningfully — the RPL programme at Fisheries and Oceans Canada is a compelling pathway. It offers a chance to join Canada’s federal public service at a meaningful level, influence important national policies, and build a fulfilling career around public good.