Analyst, Municipal Finance

Who we are

At Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. (Watson), we provide data-driven insights to help municipalities and school boards make informed decisions. We focus on financial and economic analysis to develop solutions in municipal finance, education and land economics, including demographic forecasting, development charge studies, economic assessments, long-term financial planning, municipal rate setting, school board accommodation planning, and ward boundary studies.

For the past four decades, we have led the industry by evolving our offerings to meet the needs of our public sector clients. Across Canada, Watson has worked closely with over 344 municipalities, utilities and school boards to grow and sustain better economies and communities. Our clients partner with us to identify and solve complex challenges, make informed strategic choices and better understand the long-term outcomes. We work to protect the economic assets and interests of every client we serve. Our ability to collect, distill and interpret the right data allows us to develop key insights and strategic solutions that make a difference.

Our cross-functional team of municipal economists, urban planners, and accountants is responsive, collaborative, and innovative, and we are dedicated to producing the highest quality results for our clients. Recognized as a leading authority on the fiscal policy and land economics matters of the municipal government and school board sector, Watson is known for achieving results that translate into successful client outcomes.

We have earned our reputation for quality of analysis, as well as pragmatic and insightful interpretation of the issues we address. Joining us now is a chance to be part of a dynamic team of specialists who are respected and sought out for our expertise.

Who we need

Our Municipal Finance Division provides financial and policy analysis for municipalities and school boards, specializing in development charges, fiscal impact assessments, user fees, water and wastewater rate studies, and asset management planning. The Division also advises on long-term financial strategies and municipal funding frameworks, ensuring municipalities can plan for sustainable growth and service delivery.

We have an opportunity for an Analyst in the Municipal Finance Division to support our Consultants and Project Managers in delivering high-impact financial solutions and policy advice to municipalities across Ontario. You will take on a collaborative analytical role, working closely with internal experts to conduct research, compile data, and develop financial models that inform municipal decision-making. You will assist in preparing reports and presentations, contributing to projects that shape communities, influence policy, and drive financial sustainability.

This is a full-time position operating within a hybrid work environment.

What's in it for you?

Impact. You will work on highly influential projects alongside a collaborative and knowledgeable team. You will contribute directly to major public-sector initiatives that shape Ontario’s future and provide meaningful insights that help municipalities plan for growth and financial sustainability.

Career Development. At Watson, we believe in mentorship, training, knowledge sharing, and advancement. You will have a clear path for growth, with opportunities to advance to senior consulting roles. You will gain hands-on experience, exposure to municipal clients, and access to leaders in municipal finance who will support your development.

As our new Analyst, you will:

• Collect and analyze data. You will gather and interpret demographic, economic, and financial data to assist Consultants and Project Managers with financial and policy analysis for projects such as development charges, fiscal impact assessments, user fees, water and wastewater rates, and asset management planning.
• Develop financial models. You will create financial models to project revenues, expenditures, and funding requirements for municipal services and infrastructure projects.
• Prepare proposals and reports. You will contribute data and analysis to support proposals and develop comprehensive reports and presentations that outline findings, methodologies, and strategic recommendations for municipal clients.
• Conduct policy research. You will stay informed on legislative changes and policy developments impacting municipal finance and analyze their implications for clients.
• Collaborate with stakeholders. You will move towards gaining direct client exposure, working closely with municipal staff and stakeholders to understand their needs, present findings, and contribute to the development of strategic financial solutions.

You have:

• The education and experience. You have an undergraduate degree in finance, accounting, or economics with the ability to apply logic and analytical techniques to assess data, and identify trends that support evidence-based recommendations. You have relevant work or internship experience in research, analysis, and financial/economic modeling, preferably within the public sector. You are highly proficient in MS Office, including experience developing financial and forecasting models in Excel. You are comfortable learning new software to conduct research and draw conclusions.
• The drive. You are committed to continuous learning, always seeking opportunities to expand your skills and impact. You are a highly motivated self-starter who thrives in a collaborative team environment while also working independently. You are comfortable working on multiple concurrent projects and can adapt to shifting priorities to meet competing deadlines and the needs of clients and the team.
• The interpersonal skills. You can build and maintain strong working relationships with municipal officials, colleagues, and the public. You have professional written and verbal communication skills that allow you to translate complex findings into clear, actionable insights. You are comfortable presenting and explaining financial data to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• The exposure. You may have experience working with development charges, user fees, operating and capital budgets within a municipality. A working knowledge of key Ontario legislation affecting municipalities is considered an asset.

Join Us

At Watson, we are more than a professional services consulting firm—we are a community of experts dedicated to making a meaningful impact in municipal government and education. Over the past 40 years, we have grown from a one-person firm into a thriving team of over 40 professionals. Our success is rooted in mentorship, transparency, and a commitment to developing future partners. We ensure sustainability and shared success by focusing on building expertise across our organization.

We believe in growing talent from within, offering clear paths for career progression, regular mentorship, and opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the continued development of Watson. From annual business plan discussions to transparent performance reviews, we prioritize knowledge sharing and professional growth. At Watson, you will join a legacy of collaboration and innovation supported by a culture that empowers every team member to thrive.

Apply Now

If you have 70% of what we are looking for, apply now. We can't promise an interview, but we will consider your application.

What you can expect from our interview process:

• A virtual interview with a Talent Advisor will discuss your interest in the role and background.
• An interview with the Manager, Municipal Finance and the Managing Partner, Municipal Finance. You will be able to discuss your experience and learn more about the role and our culture. You will be asked to complete a technical assessment to demonstrate your knowledge of Microsoft Excel and ability to analyze and summarize data.

Watson is firmly committed to diversity within its community and welcomes applications from racialized persons/persons of colour, Indigenous People of North America and the world, veterans, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ persons, and those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas.

We are committed to providing accessible employment practices that comply with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act ('AODA'). If you require accommodations at any stage of the interview process, please email us at careers@watsonecon.ca.

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