Union of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq
Employment Opportunity
Capacity Development · Membertou, Nova Scotia
Job Title: Research Coordinator
Employment Term: 2-Year term position (with opportunity for renewal)
Overview
Reporting to the Data Governance Manager, the Research Coordinator will support the Data Governance Team by coordinating research and data literacy initiatives. This role is central to identifying and addressing research and data gaps across Mi’kmaq communities, coordinating community-informed research initiatives, and supporting the growth of a regional research footprint. The Research Coordinator will also explore and deliver research and data literacy training and ensure future research aligns with Indigenous data sovereignty and Mi’kmaq values.
Key Responsibilities:
· Coordinate and/or conduct research on topics related to Indigenous communities and how data plays a role.
· Ensure all research is conducted in a respectful and culturally appropriate manner by ensuring research and data collection is culturally informed.
· Coordinate and/or conduct quantitative and qualitative data collection through surveys, interviews, and focus groups (community engagements).
· Uphold ethical research practices, particularly those outlined in Indigenous research ethics protocols, such as Mi’kmaw Ethics Watch (MEW) and OCAP® (Ownership, Control, Access, and Possession).
· Support the capacity development of data literacy and research for Indigenous communities.
· Support the development of protocols for Data Sharing and Data Stewardship Agreements.
· Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to blend Western and Indigenous research frameworks (i.e. Two-Eyed Seeing approach).
· Coordinate meetings with communities, organizations, staff, and other relevant stakeholders.
· When required, participate in activities such as training, conferences and meetings.
Qualifications:
· Post-secondary education in relevant field or equivalent work experience.
· Previous experience in conducting and/or coordinating research involving Indigenous communities.
· Ability to maintain confidentiality.
· Demonstrated ability to act as a self-starter and to plan, organize and prioritize workload and deadlines.
· Excellent communication and facilitation skills, with the ability to navigate sensitive cultural contexts.
· Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships with stakeholders, member communities, external partners, and staff.
· Strong understanding of research design, data collection, and analysis.
· Familiarity with research ethics frameworks specific to Indigenous contexts.
· Strong understanding of Indigenous knowledge systems, cultures, and protocols.
· Proven ability to prepare comprehensive research reports, academic papers, and presentations.
· Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), iOS hardware and software, Gmail, and Calendar.
· Experience working in First Nations, both regional and/or community level is preferred.
· Ability to understand and speak Mi’kmaq is an asset.
· Travel within and outside of the province is required and therefore a valid driver’s license and access to a reliable, insured vehicle is required.
Location: Flexible within Nova Scotia
Salary: Based qualifications and experience
Closing Date: Friday September 19, 2025
To Apply: www.unsm.org/careers
Please attach cover letters, resume and references
Only potential candidates considered will be contacted for interviews. Personal suitability will also be considered during the hiring process. UNSM hires based on merit and is committed to employment equity. We encourage all qualified persons to apply; however, qualified Aboriginal applicants will be given priority in accordance with the Aboriginal Employment Preference policy of the Canadian Human Rights Commission.
Disclaimer:
The Union of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq reserves the right to refuse all applications for employment at any time during the hiring process. No applications will be accepted beyond the closing deadline. While we appreciate all applications, only those candidates short-listed for an interview will be contacted. UNSM may cancel, postpone, or revise employment opportunities at any time.
