Research Specialist
(1 position)

Children First Canada (CFC) is a national charity with a bold and ambitious vision that together we can make Canada the best place in the world for kids to grow up.

CFC acts as a catalyst to ensure every child in Canada thrives – now and for generations to come – by protecting their rights and equipping them as the leaders of today and tomorrow. We are mobilizing a national movement of leading children’s charities and hospitals, research institutes, corporations that invest in kids, teachers, parents, and kids themselves. We are improving children’s well-being by building greater awareness amongst Canadians about the urgent needs of kids in our country and challenging government and other key influencers to change the status quo.

CFC is committed to reflecting and responding to the diversity of the people and communities we serve and is seeking that diversity in applicants for this position. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals and welcome applications from Indigenous, Black or Racialized, persons with disabilities, people who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+, and all others that contribute to the diversification of our mission. Additionally, CFC is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, CFC will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided accommodations. If accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact info@childrenfirstcanada.com.

Job Type: 8 Week Contract (to be completed between May – August 2025)

Compensation: $18 – 22 per hour (based on skills and experience)

Application Deadline: April 25, 2024

Jobs Available (See job descriptions below):

To Apply: Please send a cover letter and resume to info@childrenfirstcanada.com with the subject line “Summer Intern Application” and reference the job for which you are applying (ex. Social Media Coordinator).

Eligibility: The Government of Canada funds the summer interns through the Canada Summer Jobs program. You must be aged between 15 and 30 and be legally entitled to work in Canada. International students are not eligible. Learn more.

Guidelines for using AI in your application

Children First Canada values the authenticity and individuality of each applicant. While we encourage creativity and innovation, we ask that applicants ensure their materials are authentic.

AI tools, such as chatbots and generative AI, can be used to assist in brainstorming ideas and refining drafts of application materials, such as cover letters and resumes. However, any AI-generated content must be thoroughly reviewed and edited to ensure it accurately represents your unique qualifications. Applicants are responsible for verifying that AI-assisted materials reflect their true skills, experiences, and intentions, and to follow best practices:

  • AI Contribution: 20-30% for drafting, refining, and idea generation.
  • Human Contribution: 70-80% for customization, ensuring authenticity, and finalizing content to align with the role.

Applications that do not meet these guidelines will be deemed ineligible.

Job description

Research Specialist (1 position)

The Research Specialist will work closely with the CEO to lead the development and execution of the Raising Canada research report focused on children’s well-being and the promotion of their rights.
Primary responsibilities include:
  • Leading the development and execution of the Raising Canada research report, focusing on identifying and analyzing the top threats to children in Canada.
  • Conducting literature reviews, data collection, and analysis to support the creation of evidence-based reports and policy recommendations.
  • Collaborating with internal teams and external partners, including universities and research institutes, to gather data and integrate findings into actionable insights.
  • Preparing and delivering research presentations, reports, and briefs to senior management, stakeholders, and partners.
  • Supporting the dissemination of research findings through various platforms, including publications, media outlets, and public presentations.
  • Collaborating with the Communications Specialist to effectively communicate research findings to a wide range of audiences, including policymakers, donors, and the public.

Experience and values relevant to the organization

At Children First Canada, we strive to build a strong, inclusive, and supportive environment that advances the rights of children. Our core values guide our work:

  • We are child- and youth-centred.
  • We are bold and courageous.
  • We are inclusive.
  • We are collaborative.
  • We are transparent and accountable.
  • We are data-driven in our approach.

Children First Canada strongly values reconciliation, anti-oppression practices, and confronting anti-Black racism. We seek candidates with the following experience and values:

  • Experience working with equity-seeking groups of young people
  • A commitment to creating platforms where young people feel confident to raise their voice
  • Understanding of children’s rights under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child
  • Sound knowledge of Canadian democracy and the parliamentary process
  • A drive to engage youth at the local or national level in meaningful initiatives

Benefits

  • Flexible Schedule
  • Work from Home
  • Cell phone and internet stipend
  • Social Impact and opportunity to contribute to programs that directly benefit children and youth across Canada

Schedule

  • The successful candidates will be expected to work 37.5 hours per week.
  • The work schedule is flexible, with duties that can be performed remotely during core business hours. However, candidates may be required to be available during peak hours for youth programming (after school and weekends) and for meetings with local organizations and businesses during regular business hours.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to these roles. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities as needed.

Please note that Children First Canada will only contact candidates who have been selected for an interview. We sincerely thank all applicants for their interest in this position.