Part-Time Genealogical Researcher and Library Assistant

REPORTS TO: Scotiabank Family History Centre Manager and Genealogical Researcher

WAGE: $17.75 per hour

DURATION: Six (6) months, starting May 2, 2025 and ending November 1, 2025

Please note that this position closes at 5pm on April 4, 2025.

Job Scope

This position requires a high level of enthusiasm and dedication to customer service with the ability to multitask in a busy library environment. Strong problem-solving skills, analytical skills, and attention to detail are a must. Interest in genealogy and/or history is an asset.

Reporting to the Scotiabank Family History Centre Manager & Genealogical Researcher, the Genealogical Researcher and Library Assistant will work with the Museum’s visitors to locate, authenticate, and analyze a variety of records related to immigration and genealogy. This includes books, databases, periodicals, and a wide variety of digital and hard copy sources including the Museum’s story and image collections.

The Genealogical Researcher and Library Assistant provides comprehensive research services, including conducting reference interviews; responding to research inquiries using computerized information retrieval services and manual sources; serving the daily visitors to the Scotiabank Family History Centre as well as those who write, call, and email. The candidate must also complete accurate cash, debit, and credit transactions.

Primary Duties

1. Respond to public research requests (made onsite and via telephone, mail, and email) through online research and using databases, books, and microfilm.
2. Conduct daily opening and closing duties for the Scotiabank Family History Centre.
3. Photocopy, file, and scan.
4. Edit and print digital files.
5. Maintain proper care and maintenance of all documents handled.
6. Data entry.
7. Develop a well-rounded, current knowledge of the Museum, including all departments and services in order to offer appropriate recommendations/information to visitors.
8. Assume additional responsibilities as requested by the Scotiabank Family History Centre Manager.
9. Ensure visitor satisfaction with excellent customer service and communication skills.

Education, Knowledge & Experience
Skills and Qualifications - Required

1. Basic computer skills (email, internet, Microsoft Office).
2. Ability to provide a high level of customer service.
3. Demonstrate initiative and judgment in determining the extent of visitor information needs.
4. Ability to remain calm and professional under frequently changing and stressful circumstances.
5. Exhibit attention to detail.
6. Capability of working within a high traffic environment.
7. Strong problem-solving skills.
8. Follow instructions and work with minimal supervision.
9. Perform repetitive tasks.
10. Ability to perform cash, debit, and credit transactions.

Skills And Qualifications - Desired

1. Bachelor’s degree or certificate in related discipline such as history, education, library studies, or museum studies.
2. Ability to communicate fully in both official languages.
3. Knowledge of Adobe Photoshop, Microsoft Access, and basic scanning procedures.
4. Interest in History and Genealogy.
5. Experience working in a team environment.
6. Interest or knowledge of genealogy and genealogical resources.

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

1. Busy library environment.
2. Requires long periods at a desk and time in front of a computer.
3. Willingness to work irregular hours, overtime, weekends, and/or statutory holidays and provincial/territorial holidays, when required.
4. Willingness to wear a Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 uniform.

The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 is committed to having a skilled, diversified workforce reflective of Canadian Society. Applications are invited from all qualified candidates, including Indigenous, women, people of any sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, visible minorities, racialized people, and people with disabilities. The Museum is committed to developing inclusive, barrier-free selection processes and work environment. Alternative selection tool methods and/or reasonable accommodation are available upon request.