Collections Assistant (Student) – Zoology (Invertebrates)
2090-CMN-24-OC-023
Term: 16 weeks, September to December, 2024
Hours of work: 37.5 hours per week
Number of positions: 1 position
Work Location
Natural Heritage Campus, 1740 Pink Road, Gatineau
Closing Date
May 21, 2024
The CMN has funding for Student Training Program for the data digitization of its Invertebrate Collections, with the goal of making these data publicly accessible online. These data will be available for learning and decision-making, adding to a growing resource that serves scientists, students, land managers, and nature enthusiasts worldwide.
To accomplish this work, the CMN requires one student to support its Collection staff with tasks related to inventorying, labeling and organizing the specimens and digitizing the associated data. Post-secondary, undergraduate students from all regions of regions of Canada will be considered.
The student in this role will be:
- Organize and upgrade wet and dry collections are according to museum best practices;
- Inventory collections, extract data and prepare labels;
- Process samples in the context of Collection Development (i.e., acquisitions);
- Apply different aspects associated with Collection Data Management.
Your place at the Museum
We value diversity and believe we benefit from working in a place where everyone feels included and where the unique qualities and strengths inherent in a diverse workforce are combined. We welcome applications from persons who may identify as a member of one or more other equity seeking groups (for e.g. visible minorities, disabled, 2SLGBTQIA+, religious or cultural minority).
You have a place at the Museum!
QUALIFICATIONS:
Candidates must meet the following basic requirements:
- Enrolled in a university undergraduate or college program in biology (or a closely related field) or Museum Studies; candidates must be registered to return to their full-time studies in Winter 2025;
- Ability to speak and write in one of the Official Languages is essential;
- Computer fluency and experience with Microsoft Excel;
- Basic understanding of taxonomic classification and naming conventions for biological species is essential;
- Ability to read and comprehend information on specimen labels, and apply it conducting basic tasks;
- Ability to apply fine motor skills and manual dexterity essential when handling, inspecting, documenting and transporting fragile insect specimens;
- Ability to exercise focused attention to detail in order to maintain necessary high standards for accuracy and organization in all tasks;
- Ability to listen effectively, respect established procedures and standards, and faithfully follow instructions;
- Ability to communicate effectively in order to ask and answer questions regarding the methods and progress of assigned tasks;
- Ability to maintain self-motivation in a variety of team and independent task scenarios;
Academic or practical experience in Invertebrate Zoology and/or collection management are considered significant assets.
Please note that this is a full-time position, during weekday hours only.
For more information regarding the position, please contact: Dr. Jean-Marc Gagnon, Curator, Invertebrate Collections (jmgagnon@nature.ca)
SALARY: Rates of pay are determined at the initial appointment or reappointment stage and are based on the incumbent’s current academic level as per the museum’s terms and conditions of employment for students. The official working period is from Monday to Friday between 8:00 and 16:00.
NOTE: Canadian citizenship is not required, however individuals must be legally entitled to work in Canada. The Canadian Museum of Nature is committed to developing inclusive, barrier-free selection processes and work environments. If contacted in relation to a job opportunity or testing, please advise the Human Resources Advisor in a timely fashion of the accommodation measures which must be taken to enable you to be assessed in a fair and equitable manner. Information received relating to accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.
INTERESTED CANDIDATES must send a copy of their resume with a transcript and a cover letter demonstrating how her qualifications meet the requirements of this position by e-mail no later than May 21st, 2024, to competition@nature.ca. The subject line of the email should start with the competition number, 2090-CMN-24-OC-023.