Research Assistant - Research Affiliate Program

Important messages

We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment, starting with the hiring process. If you need to be accommodated during any phase of the evaluation process, please use the Contact information below to request specialized accommodation. All information received in relation to accommodation will be kept confidential.

Assessment accommodation

AAFC is committed to diversity and inclusion and is proud to be recognized as one of Canada’s best diversity employers. We welcome all applicants and strongly encourage candidates to self-declare if they belong to an Employment Equity designated group (i.e. Aboriginal Peoples, Persons with Disabilities, Visible Minorities or Women).

Persons are entitled to participate in the appointment process in the official language of their choice. Applicants are asked to indicate their preferred official language in their application.

Communication for this process will be sent via email. It is the responsibility of the candidate to ensure accurate contact information is provided and updated as required. Candidates who apply to this selection process should include an email address that accepts email from unknown users (some email systems block these types of email).

Duties

The successful applicant will assist in the research method and questionnaire development process, visit partner communities, collect data for the project, conduct semi-structure surveys/interviews/focus groups, transcribe digital video/audio recordings, enter data, conduct qualitative data analysis, coordinate and facilitate meetings, prepare and deliver presentations, and coauthor reports/manuscripts.

Work environment

The work will take place at two locations: 1) a Canadian university especially during periods of coursework and some of the research method development stage; and 2) Summerland, BC during research implementation, data collection and reporting stages.

Intent of the process

Indigenous students will have a priority to be considered for the Research Affiliate Program (RAP) hiring for the project.

Positions to be filled: 1

Information you must provide

Your résumé.

A covering letter in 1,500 words (maximum) "Describe how you qualify for the position and your research interest."

Contact information for 2 references.

A list of the courses you have taken as well as any courses that you are taking now, or that you will be taking this academic year

In order to be considered, your application must clearly explain how you meet the following (essential qualifications)

Willing to enroll in a Master’s program in a recognized post-secondary institution with specialization in agriculture, agricultural economics, food science, consumer research, Indigenous/First Nations studies or a related field.

Degree equivalency

Experience carrying out research activities.

*In the context of student recruitment in the Federal Public Service, the experience can be acquired through the studies, work experience, or volunteer activities.

If you possess any of the following, your application must also clearly explain how you meet it (other qualifications)

Experience conducting surveys/interviews/focus groups.

The following will be applied / assessed at a later date (essential for the job)

English essential

Information on language requirements

Knowledge of food systems and food security
Knowledge of Indigenous studies
Knowledge of survey design and/or community-based participatory research

Analytical thinking
Problem solving
Teamwork
Interactive communication

Ability to make observations, collect and record data accurately, summarize results and present information.
Ability to conduct interviews/surveys.
Ability to write reports and contribute to the preparation of research papers.

The following may be applied / assessed at a later date (may be needed for the job)

Qualitative data analysis skills.

Selection may be limited to members of the following Employment Equity groups: Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, visible minorities, women

Information on employment equity

Conditions of employment

Reliability Status security clearance - Each student hired through the Research Affiliate Program (RAP) must meet the security requirements of the position as a condition of employment, and therefore will be asked by the hiring organization to complete security-relevant documents.

Valid driver’s license.

The student should be willing and able to work in two work locations 1) a Canadian university especially during periods of coursework and some of the research method development stage; and 2) Summerland, BC during research implementation, data collection and reporting stages

Other information

The Public Service of Canada is committed to building a skilled and diverse workforce that reflects the Canadians we serve. We promote employment equity and encourage you to indicate if you belong to one of the designated groups when you apply.

Information on employment equity

Applications submitted by email will not be accepted. You must apply on-line through www.jobs.gc.ca.

Persons with disabilities preventing them from applying on-line are asked to contact 1-800-645-5605.

Candidates will be required to pay for their own travel related to assessment and successful candidates will be responsible for obtaining their own living accommodations.

Successful completion of both a RAP work assignment and your educational program may lead to a temporary or permanent federal public service position for which you meet the merit criteria and conditions of employment.

Preference

Preference will be given to Canadian citizens.

We thank all those who apply. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.