Please note: This Job Posting will be closed on July 29, 2026 at 5:00 pm and this posting is for an existing vacancy.   

Objective:  

The Research and Evaluation Specialist will lead the analysis and development of sector-based program and policy research and evaluation that will enhance Friendship Centre advocacy priorities.   

Key Deliverables:  

• Responsible for conducting sector-specific program and policy research that will provide evidence that advances Friendship Centre priorities.  

• Develops sector-specific program and policy evaluation plans, implements culture-based evaluation practices and conducts related analysis that results in enhanced advocacy for Friendship Centres.   

Key Responsibilities: 

Research Planning, Conduct, Analysis, and Dissemination (50%): 

• Promotes recognition of Indigenous research, ensuring all research is grounded in the USAI Research Framework 

• Designs and uses USAI-principled methods and culturally grounded research tools to plan for, organize, and conduct research that directly contribute to OFIFC sector priorities. 

• Collects, organizes, analyzes, and communicates data in the form of research findings to advance sector program and policy advocacy. 

• Develops and innovates ways research methods, findings, and recommendations are shared including written reports, articles, creative, and multi-media products.  

• Prepares research-related publications and products for public distribution. 

• Develops research related proposals, including proposed research conduct, methods of engagement, data collection methods and budgets. 

• Prepares and delivers program and policy research-related trainings, workshops, and presentations for both internal and external audiences. 

• Conducts Friendship Centre field visits, collects information on Friendship Centre research needs and priorities related to sector priorities. 

Evaluation Planning, Implementation, Analysis and Dissemination (50%): 

• Leading program and policy evaluation planning, implementation and analysis within sector portfolio. 

• Monitors and evaluates the quality and integrity of data within sector to inform evaluation methodologies.  

• Conducts relevant statistical and qualitative analysis on available data sets for evaluation purposes. 

• Develops and prepares reports that summarize and visually present data to inform decisions regarding program and policy development within sector. 

• Supports in administering evaluation methods, including preparation, facilitation and liaising with relevant parties as appropriate.  

• Prepares program and policy evaluation products for publication in collaboration with communications team.  

• Prepares and participates in the delivery of evaluation publications and products – including related training and workshops for both internal and external audiences.   

Education/Work Experience: 

•   Completion of post-secondary education relevant to social research; evaluation; social sciences graduate preferred 
•   Minimum of 3 years’ experience working with Indigenous communities and/or agencies in a research and/or evaluation capacity 
•   Minimum of 2 years’ experience undertaking research and evaluation.  

Behavioural Competencies: 

• Creative/Innovative 

• Flexibility/Problem-solving 

• Planning and Organising 

• Collaborative Team Player  

Technical Competencies: 

• Strong knowledge of Indigenous issues, communities, worldviews, and practices in the context of Indigenous knowledge transfer and research; 

• Extensive experience in research, including Indigenous and non-Indigenous research paradigms, with strong and demonstrated skills to formulate research plans, design research, apply appropriate methods, and implement research activities;  

• Proficiency in data collection, management, and analysis for both qualitative and quantitative data; 

• Strong writer and communicator with experience facilitating research activities and disseminating research findings in creative, accessible, and engageable ways. 

 What we offer: 

• Culture-based organization
• Registered Pension Plan - Employer Matching
• Hiring Range: $70,000 - $73,850
• Full Pay Range: $70,000 - $82,000
• Comprehensive Health benefits after the probationary period including Health Care Spending Account & Lifestyle Spending Account (100% Employer paid) 

The OFIFC is committed to building a skilled and diverse workforce; we promote employment equity and encourage applicants to indicate if you belong to one of the four designated employment equity groups Women, Indigenous peoples, Persons with disabilities, or Members of visible minorities when you apply. 

Preference will be given to qualified Turtle Island Indigenous people including members of First Nations, Inuit and Métis (recognized by the Metis National Council).  Applicants claiming Indigenous ancestry will be required to provide supporting documentation to substantiate their claim. 

Accommodation: 

The OFIFC is committed to providing barrier-free and accessible employment practices in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Should you require Code-protected accommodation through any stage of the recruitment process, please make them known when contacted and we will work with you to meet your needs. 

Pre-screen Interviews are scheduled to start July 4, 2026 

Formal interviews are scheduled to take place August 10 - 13, 2026