Research Assistant

at  Sistering

Title: Research Assistant
Hours: Full time, 35 hours per week
Term: 1 year with possibility of extension
Location: 962 Bloor St West
Supervisor: Research Associates
Sistering is a multi-service agency for at-risk, socially isolated women and gender diverse-people in Toronto who are homeless or precariously housed. Our harm reduction philosophy is a core element of all the work we do. We operate on a trauma-informed and relationship-based model. Our programs include a low-barrier 24/7 Drop In, Housing and Case Support, Harm Reduction, Peer Outreach, on-site Medical Clinic and Spun Studio social enterprise.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Research Assistant will be responsible for supporting all aspects of research and knowledge mobilization for the Finding Our Way (FOW) project. FOW is a Women and Gender Equality Canada funded project. Through various research methods, this project will explore the landscape of peer work in the social services sector as well as the unique challenges faced by multiply-marginalized women and gender-diverse peers. While based out of Sistering, the project will engage peer workers across the GTA. The Research Assistant will be an individual who has previous experience as a peer worker in a health or social services organization and who has lived or living experience with homelessness, substance use, disability and/or mental health challenges.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience as a peer worker in a health or social service setting is required.
• Experience with basic research methods and analysis: conducting literature reviews, report writing, conducting interviews, facilitating focus groups, etc. Experience can be any combination of academic, volunteer, and/or paid work.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills; clear and concise reporting skills.
• Strong data analysis skills, with an ability to present research in a pragmatic way.
• Demonstrated organization skills and able to work well individually and on a team.
• Detail-oriented, resourceful, and can prioritize competing work demands.
• Understanding of programs serving women and gender diverse people with complex intersecting needs including homelessness, mental health issues, addictions and histories of trauma.
• Understanding of client-centered, trauma-informed, low barrier and anti-oppression practices.
• Understanding of systems that cause and contribute to homelessness, poverty and marginalization.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Required language proficiency: English.
  Compensation: $25.71 per hour; paid sick, vacation, and personal days; health and dental benefits. This is a non-unionized position.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work productively and collaboratively with the research team.
• Conduct a literature review and environmental scan.
• Liaise with Community of Practice, support in organizing and facilitating monthly Community of Practice meetings.
• Support with the preparation and facilitation of focus groups and interviews.
• Transcribe, code, and analyze data.
• Engage a Gender-based Analysis Plus framework.