Finance Co-op Student (4 months)

Are you a curious problem-solver who enjoys analyzing data, challenging assumptions, and finding smarter ways to work? Are you looking for an opportunity to apply your business, finance, analytics, and strategic thinking skills to meaningful work that has a direct impact on access to justice in Ontario? Legal Aid Ontario is seeking a highly motivated, intellectually curious, and adaptable Co-op Student to join our Finance team. This is an opportunity to work alongside experienced finance professionals, contribute to real business decisions, and gain exposure to financial planning, accounting, financial reporting, performance measurement, and strategic initiatives within a complex public-sector environment. At LAO, Finance is more than accounting. Our team helps leaders make informed decisions by providing financial analysis, business insights, forecasting, performance measurement, and strategic advice that support the delivery of legal services to low-income Ontarians. This is a full-time co-op opportunity (36.25 hours per week) in a collaborative, flexible, and supportive environment where students are encouraged to contribute ideas, ask questions, and take ownership of meaningful work. Unlike many traditional finance co-op positions, this role combines financial analysis, strategy, performance measurement, data analytics, and business problem-solving, providing exposure to both operational and executive decision-making. As a member of the Finance team, the Co-op Student will support a broad range of financial and business activities across Legal Aid Ontario, including financial planning and analysis, accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, performance measurement, financial operations, and process improvement. The role provides an opportunity to apply analytical and problem-solving skills to real business challenges while contributing to informed decision-making, effective financial stewardship, and continuous improvement across the organization.

•Assist with budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and variance analysis. •Support accounting processes, reconciliations, financial reviews, and month-end activities. •Analyze financial and operational data to identify trends, risks, opportunities, and key business insights. •Learn and apply public-sector accounting, financial management, and internal control practices. •Support the development of management reports, dashboards, presentations, and business cases. •Conduct research and analysis to support strategic initiatives and decision-making. •Contribute to process improvement, automation, and innovation projects across the Finance division. •Collaborate with stakeholders across the organization to analyze business challenges and develop practical solutions. •Deliver high-quality work while demonstrating initiative, curiosity, adaptability, and sound judgment.