Administrative Team Research Assistant

Reports to: VP Administration     

Rate: B2     

Hours per week: 6-8 

Contract term: June - April 30

The Administrative Team Research Assistant is primarily responsible for conducting research related to peer-support and professional development matters that are relevant to the McMaster Students Union. The Administrative Team Research Assistant is also responsible for working in co-operation with the peer support and equity-based services for matters relating to training, assessment and other projects. The Administrative Team Research Assistant will also work to review workplace policies and best practices. 

This position will close Sunday, April 12 at 11:59pm. 

Research Function                                         

60% 

• Keep current on any relevant literature and best practices (HR and Peer Support) within McMaster, the post-secondary sector, and beyond  

• Develop resource materials for part-time staff to aid in hiring and training based on best practices and policies 

• Develop materials for the peer support training weekend in conjunction with relevant Part-Time Managers, campus, and community stakeholders  

• Support the Operations Coordinator in updating and revising workplace policies  

• Develop assessment tools to review existing services/resources provided by equity-based services and consolidate recommendations for areas of improvement 

Communication Function    

15% 

• Assist relevant MSU staff and volunteers with learning how to conduct peer-support  

• Maintain strong communication with the Vice-President (Administration) and the peer support and equity-based services 

• Consult Equity-Based PTM’s through monthly cluster meetings to assess the needs of the department 

• Support projects related to peer-support and wellness on campus as the discretion of the Vice-President (Administration) 

Training Function 

15% 

• Book space on campus for all training and professional development sessions  

• Develop presentations, training materials, and resources for the peer support training weekend.   

• Book and carry out professional development and skill development training throughout the academic year for part-time staff – as directed  

• Coordination of various stakeholders to carry out training sessions 

Other             

10% 

• Other duties as directed by the Vice-President (Administration)  

• Attend training sessions and events as an MSU representative when required 

• Provide transition for incoming Administrative Team Research Assistant 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities 

• Excellent writing skills, including proofreading and editing 


• Capacity for research, consultation, and analysis of relevant literature 


• Knowledge of the peer-support landscape at McMaster and in the post-secondary sector is an asset 


• Knowledge of related resources on campus and in the larger Hamilton community 


• Capacity to develop and maintain strong relationships with community and campus stakeholders 


• Equity and peer supported based experiences and knowledge are an asset 

Effort & Responsibility 

• Ability to work independently and with other when necessary 


• Ability to carry out research projects and training development from start to finish 


• Ability to synthesize and create novel training materials and sessions according to the human resources and equity literature. 

Working Conditions 

• Hours of work are variable 


• Time demands may exceed stated hours of work 


• Access to shared work space in the MSU Committee Room 

Training and Experience 

• Experience with peer support, counseling, and active listening is an asset 


• Experience working within an equity-based lens


• Previous research experience is an asset 


• Participation in MSU Management Training 

Equipment 

• Use of a personal computer is preferred 


• Access to a shared office computer