CO-OPERATIVE EDUCATION – Arts & Social Sciences
Research Assistant
This is a sample job description for an entry level position. It is based on actual job postings within Cooperative Education. Fictitious company details and contact names have been used.
Company Name: Government of Canadian Past and Present, Public Opinion Unit (POU)
Contact: Chris Lewis, Agent de recherche / Research Officer
5879 Treeleaf Way, Gatineau, Quebec
Job Title: Research Assistant
Company Description:
Canadian Past and Present is responsible for national policies and programs that promote
Canadian content, foster cultural participation, active citizenship and participation in Canada's
civic life, and strengthen connections among Canadians. Canadian Past and Present conducts a
large number of surveys each year. Furthermore, POU is responsible for the dissemination of
survey research findings, including responding to requests for information and the
development of summaries, reports, briefing notes, etc.
Duties/Responsibilities:
 The person occupying this position will work in a small team consisting of two Public
Opinion Research (POR) Officers as well as the Research Coordinator
 The analysis of survey results, including the production of research summaries
 Create research summaries in an organized, succinct fashion in both graphical and
textual formats
Requirements/Qualifications:
 Excellent communication and writing skills
 Strong analytical skills
 Strong working knowledge of Word and PowerPoint; including the ability to create
graphs and charts in both programs
 Efficient time management and organizational skills
 Knowledge of SPSS, HTML would be an asset
 Basic knowledge of French would be an asset
 Previous experience working in a team environment