Junior Researcher

Company: Survivors' Secretariat

JOB DESCRIPTION: Junior Researcher
Position Title: Junior Researcher
Reports to: Data Librarian
Compensation & Classification: Contract $50,000.00 - $60,000.00
Contract position 1 year with the 
possibility of renewal
 Requires travel, some weekends and evenings.
Organization Description: The Survivors’ Secretariat was established in 2021 to 
organize and support efforts to uncover, document and share the truth about what 
happened at the Mohawk Institute, Indian Residential School during its 140 years of 
operation.
Job Description:
The Junior Researcher supports research initiatives related to the Mohawk Institute 
Residential School by working under the guidance and supervision of the Data Librarian 
to identify, collect, review, and manage historical records from a wide range of 
repositories and archives. 
The position is foundational in nature and emphasizes careful handling of sensitive 
materials, attention to detail, and respect for the historical and cultural significance of 
the records.
Duties & Responsibilities:
• Assist in locating and collecting records from archives, libraries, government 
repositories, church records, and other relevant sources related to the Mohawk 
Institute Residential School and its students.
• Support the cataloging and organization of historical documents, photographs, 
registers, correspondence, and other materials.
• Digitize records through scanning and ensure files meet established preservation 
and quality standards.
• Enter, store, and maintain records and metadata within a secure database or 
records management system.
• Assist with document review to identify names, dates, locations, and other key 
information relevant to research on residential schools, missing children, and 
unmarked burials.
• Support research projects by compiling findings, tracking sources, and organizing 
documentation for further analysis.
• Follow established protocols for data integrity, confidentiality, and culturally 
respectful handling of sensitive information.
• Work collaboratively with the Data Librarian to ensure consistency and accuracy 
across collections.
Minimum Qualifications and Experience:
Education
• Post-secondary education or coursework in history, Indigenous studies, library 
and information science, social sciences, archival studies, or a closely related 
field (or equivalent professional experience).
• Demonstrated interest in indigenous history, residential school research, truth 
and reconciliation efforts or related areas essential.
Experience & Knowledge
• Knowledge of the Indian Residential School system, the Truth and Reconciliation 
Commission of Canada and the Calls to Action.
• Post-secondary education or coursework in history, Indigenous studies, library 
and information science, social sciences, or a related field (or equivalent 
experience).
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Basic computer skills, including file management and data entry.
• Ability to work methodically with large volumes of documents.
• Familiarity with archival or library environments.
• Experience with scanning, digitization, or cataloging records.
• Interest in Indigenous history, residential school research, or truth and 
reconciliation work.
• Knowledge of databases or metadata systems.
• Familiarity with OCAP (Ownership, Control, Access, and Possession) and CARE 
(Collective Benefit, Authority to Control, Responsibility, and Ethics) principles in 
the context of Indigenous data governance.
• Knowledge of IDS (Indigenous Data Sovereignty) and the importance of 
empowering Indigenous communities to own, control, and govern their data.
• Knowledge of IDG (Indigenous Data Governance) framework and considerations 
involved in working with Indigenous data.
Additional Requirements
• This position involves working with sensitive and potentially distressing historical 
materials.
• Cultural awareness, respect, and discretion are essential.
• Training and supervision will be provided.
• Preference may be given to candidates who are intergenerational Survivors or 
have strong personal/family/community connections to the Indian Residential 
School System.
• Valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation are considered an 
asset.