Canada RPL Program 2025-2026 | Recruitment of Policy Leaders — Public Service Innovation
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Canada RPL Program 2025-2026 | Recruitment of Policy Leaders – Public Policy Roles
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Apply for Canada’s Recruitment of Policy Leaders (RPL) Program 2025–2026. Join a high-impact talent pool for mid- to senior-level policy roles across the federal government. Deadline begins November 24, 2025.RPL Canada 2025-2026, Recruitment of Policy Leaders Canada, public policy jobs Canada, federal policy leadership program, Canada public service policy analyst
What Is the RPL Program?
The Recruitment of Policy Leaders (RPL) Program is a prominent public service initiative by the Government of Canada to attract exceptional talent into federal policy roles. This program is designed for professionals and academics with strong leadership skills, policy-relevant experience, and a desire to influence national decision-making.
Launching on November 24, 2025, the RPL application window remains open for two weeks for the general stream. Special application streams for Indigenous people and persons with disabilities remain open for an additional two weeks to increase accessibility and inclusion.
Key Responsibilities & Role Description
Selected RPL candidates will serve in influential mid- to senior-level policy roles within the federal public service. Core duties may include:
- Developing creative and strategic policy solutions on national issues.
- Advising senior decision-makers and contributing to cross-departmental policy initiatives.
- Leading or participating in policy analysis across diverse priority areas such as AI innovation, Indigenous relations, national security, and more.
- Serving in the EC-05 to EC-07 job classification—reflecting the program’s aim to place leaders in meaningful, well-compensated roles.
- Connecting with a network of RPL alumni, benefiting from mentorship, peer support, and continuous learning.
Why Join the RPL Program? Key Benefits
- Wide Access Across Departments: Join a national talent pool that places you in federal departments aligned with your expertise.
- Strong Salary Range: RPL roles typically fall within EC-05 to EC-07, with pay ranging from CAD $100,265 to $146,936, depending on level.
- Mentorship & Networking: Work with experienced public servants and RPL alumni who guide candidates through hiring and career development.
- Equity & Inclusion: The program prioritizes equity, welcoming self-declarations from Indigenous candidates, persons with disabilities, visible minorities, and women.
- Long-Term Impact: Gain a platform to influence Canada’s most important policy challenges and contribute to public good.
Who Is Eligible?
To apply, candidates should meet the following criteria:
- Be Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Some non-permanent residents may apply, but preference is given to Canadians and veterans.
- Have policy-relevant experience through professional work, research, or leadership.
- Represent diverse academic or professional backgrounds all fields are welcome, from economics to law to science.
- Demonstrate interest in addressing key federal policy priorities (e.g. AI, infrastructure, Indigenous relations, trade).
- Self-declare if from underrepresented groups, such as Indigenous persons or people with disabilities RPL provides accommodations and additional evaluation windows.
Application Process & Timeline
- Once the application campaign opens on November 24, 2025, submit your application via the official RPL portal.
- Applicants may undergo written assessments and interviews as part of the selection process.
- After shortlisting, you’ll be matched with hiring managers in federal departments. RPL candidates may be placed in a partially-assessed inventory pool for up to two years.
- Final hiring is facilitated via the Public Service Commission once approved, departments complete reference checks and confirm employment.
Program Evaluation & Effectiveness
- According to a Public Service Commission evaluation, the RPL program has successfully brought highly qualified policy leaders into the public service, with most alumni placed at EC-6 or EC-7 levels.
- The report highlights the program’s strength in leveraging talent across multiple fields, including research, economics, and public service.
- The evaluation also recommends strengthening mentoring, onboarding, and management support to improve long-term retention and effectiveness.
Final Thoughts & Additional Resources
The RPL Program 2025-2026 is a rare and powerful channel into senior-level policy-making in Canada’s federal government. It’s particularly suited for individuals who are passionate about tackling national challenges through public service, research, and leadership.
Mark your calendar for November 24, 2025, when applications open. Visit the official RPL webpage to apply.
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