The City of Ottawa is recruiting the position of Council-appointed Hearing Officer as outlined in the Administrative Penalty System (APS) provincial regulations (O. Reg 333/07 and O. Reg 355/22). This position provides an independent review of the decision made by a Screening Officer as outlined in the APS program for parking contraventions and prescribed camera-related contraventions. The Hearing Officer is an independent external contract position established in accordance with the Administrative Penalty System Appointment By-Law of the City of Ottawa and is not a City employee position. The City is establishing a pool of qualified candidates for the 2026-2030 Term of Council who may be appointed into such role from time to time by Council as required.
About the Role
Hearing Officers conduct hearings, assess evidence and submissions, interpret and apply applicable legislation and municipal by-laws, and issue clear, reasoned written decisions. The role requires sound judgment, independence, strong communication skills, professionalism, and a commitment to procedural fairness. All decisions made by Hearing Officers are deemed to be final and binding. Hearings are held in person at 100 Constellation Drive, Nepean, ON.
Hearing Officers must have the flexibility to provide services on a part-time basis, approximately 2-3 days per week or 6-12 days per month, during business hours on weekdays. Hearings will begin at 8:30 am and finish no later than 4:30 pm. Hearing Officers are not guaranteed to work a minimum number of hearings per week and staff will work with each individual to determine availability.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct fair and impartial hearings.
- Review evidence and consider submissions from the parties.
- Interpret and apply applicable legislation, regulations, and municipal by-laws.
- Issue clear written decisions in accordance with established procedures.
- Maintain high standards of professionalism, integrity, and procedural fairness.
Qualifications and Experience
We encourage applications from individuals with relevant experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Adjudication, tribunal, court or hearing processes
- Interpreting and applying legislation, regulations or municipal by-laws
- Administrative law or municipal government
- Mediation, arbitration or alternative dispute resolution
- Legal, regulatory, compliance or quasi-judicial decision-making
Assets: Experience with the Municipal Act, Provincial Offences Act, Statutory Powers Procedure Act, municipal by-laws or similar legislation.
Eligibility Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Not be employed by the City of Ottawa.
- Not be the spouse, child or parent of a Member of Ottawa City Council.
- Have no conflicts of interest that could interfere with the independent exercise of the role.
- Be comfortable working independently in a digital and paperless environment.
Additional eligibility requirements are outlined in the application form and APS appointment By-law.
Remuneration
The Administrative Penalty System Hearing Officers receive the following remuneration:
- A full-day remuneration of $500
- A half-day remuneration (3.5 hours or less) of $350
Hearing Officers will not be reimbursed for their transportation or parking costs.
Diversity and Inclusion
The City of Ottawa is committed to a diverse and inclusive roster of Hearing Officers that reflects the communities it serves. Applications are encouraged from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences."