Executive Assistants and Political Staffers
Formal Description
“Executive assistants coordinate administrative procedures, public relations activities and research and analysis functions for members of legislative assemblies, ministers, deputy ministers, corporate officials and executives, committees and boards of directors. They are employed by governments, corporations and associations.” (NOC 2021)
Sample Job Titles
This category includes a variety of job titles that may not necessarily be reflected by the category title. For a full index of job titles, see the category entry on the ESDC site. Example job titles include:
Committee Clerk
Constituency Aid
Constituency Assistant
Executive Assistant
Legislative Assistant
Ministerial Assistant
Parliamentary Assistant
Parliamentary Committee Clerk
Typical Employment and Education Requirements
The requirements listed for each occupational category will tend to vary across particular roles, job titles, and contexts.
The following typical requirements are listed on the ESDC’s 2021 entry for this occupational category:
- Completion of secondary school is required.
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree in public administration, political science or a related discipline or the completion of a college diploma in administration is usually required.
- Experience in a related administrative occupation is usually required.
Success with a Social Sciences Undergraduate Degree and Beyond
When reviewing typical requirements, please remember:
- Degree and diploma listings often end with a purposefully open-ended phrase (“or a related field”, “or a similar discipline”) that acknowledges the variety and applicability of social sciences and liberal arts degrees.
- Employers often focus less on the name or title of a candidate’s degree, and more on how they articulate their transferable skills and experiences.
- Many qualifications and certifications are available as post-graduate certificates aimed at recent university graduates; these can make an excellent further education option for a social sciences or liberal arts degree.
Related Categories
Here are a few other categories that might interest you:
Related Sectors
Whereas Economic and Social Development Canada’s ‘occupational’ categories tend to focus more on the duties and functions that people play in specific roles, exploring careers by ‘sectors’ helps us to sort by employer type, industry, or general field of work. Here are just a few of the sectors that may be relevant to this category:
Academic Program Connections
As you select your program of study and the courses you will take, you can chart a path towards success in this sector from any one of our social sciences departments and programs. Here are just a few examples of academic disciplines that have connections with this sector:
Indigenous Studies Learn More
With a focus on Indigenous governance, rights, and community development, this program supports careers in policy advocacy, reconciliation efforts, and Indigenous affairs. Students gain expertise in legal frameworks, governance, and cultural preservation, preparing them for roles in government agencies, advocacy groups, and community leadership.
Political Science Learn More
Political Science equips students with expertise in governance, policy-making, and public administration. Courses in political theory, international relations, and public policy provide a strong foundation for careers in government offices, legislative support, and political advising.
Work & Labour Studies Learn More
Covering employment policies, labour relations, and workplace rights, Work & Labour Studies is valuable for careers in government labour offices, workforce regulation, and union advocacy. Students develop skills in labour policy analysis, collective bargaining, and employment standards, preparing them for roles in public administration and labour law enforcement.
Anthropology Learn More
Understanding cultural diversity, social structures, and human behaviour is crucial for roles in public service, community engagement, and policy development. Anthropology courses explore global perspectives, making students well-suited for careers in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and international relations.
