“Beyond the Bank” Research Assistant

Job Description

Position Description

Reporting to the Community Engagement Facilitator, the “Beyond the Bank” Research Assistant will support a collaborative research project examining the changing state of food insecurity in Eastern Nova Scotia and the trends, challenges, and opportunities in the work of community food assistance programs.

Beyond the Bank is led by New Dawn Community Engagement and Nova Scotia Health, in partnership with Cape Breton University, the Nova Scotia Department of Opportunities and Social Development, local municipalities, one Indigenous community, Community Health Boards, and various food service providers. It is also supported by Food Odyssey, a Partnership Development research initiative, led by Dr. Eric Li at the University of British Columbia.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with arranging a series of focus groups to be undertaken across the Eastern Health Zone
• Attend each focus group and use a digital recorder to prepare an audio recording of the session; taking notes throughout the focus group
• Using automated transcription software provided, produce a draft written transcript of each focus group; review and revise the draft transcript to ensure accuracy
• Contribute to the coding and sensemaking of collected data
• Participate in working group meetings throughout the project
• Look for potential improvements and help implement solutions
• Maintain quality, safety and the confidentiality of employees, clients, and volunteers
• Maintain professionalism, tact, diplomacy, and sensitivity so as to portray New Dawn in a positive manner, consistent with its values and vision
• Update job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities, engaging in professional networks, and participating in professional organizations
• Respond to the needs of others with effective communication, mutual respect, and consistent follow
  through to build trust and workplace relationships
• Promote the mission and values of New Dawn both internally and externally
• Other duties as assigned by the Facilitator, Community Engagement

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a post-secondary program in the social sciences
• Current and up-to-date Criminal Records Check
• Valid Nova Scotia Driver’s License, access to reliable transportation considered an asset
• Compassion and empathy
• Experience working with and advocating for vulnerable populations
• Ability to work independently, as part of a team, and with guidance from others
• Exceptional attention to detail
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work effectively with others; to work together towards a shared goal
• Highly organized and ability to work well under pressure
• Proficiency with Microsoft suite of programs and applications
• High level of integrity, confidentiality, and accountability
• Understands servant leadership and community-focus as central to the work

Working Conditions

• Travel will be required
• Manual dexterity required to use desktop computer and peripherals
• Flexible work schedule but tight deadlines required for project completion
• Interacts with project partners and community members
• Environment can be busy and/or noisy at times