Research Lead
Position Description
Clear Seas is a Canadian not-for-profit organization that provides independent fact-based information to enable governments, industry, and the public to make informed decisions on marine shipping issues. The Research Lead will support the Research & Knowledge Mobilization team and contribute to the organization’s vision of a sustainable marine shipping sector that is safe, vibrant, and inclusive, both now and for future generations. The delivery of these research projects requires and builds on a variety of science, communication, critical thinking, and project management skills.
This position will lead Clear Seas’ Mapping Marine Traffic (MMT) project, a multi-year initiative to democratize access to marine shipping data and provide analytical support to answer key questions about vessel traffic in Canadian waters. The project sits within the Shipping and Ocean Conservation Integration (SOC-I) Program.
The Research Lead will plan and conduct technical analyses on vessel traffic patterns, commercial anchorage use, and other subject areas, using data visualization skills. They will present research results to a range of audiences.
We’re looking for a curious, self-directed problem solver who will enjoy using data to answer complex questions about shipping and contribute to a more sustainable, inclusive marine industry.
At Clear Seas, our commitment to reconciliation is reflected in how we work and how we learn. We value Indigenous-led research and collaboration with communities to better understand the impacts of shipping on their lands, waters, and ways of life. We conduct research in adherence to ownership, control, access and possession (OCAP®) principles, and our approach is guided by the framework of Two-Eyed Seeing, which values both Indigenous and Western knowledge systems.
Working at Clear Seas means actively participating in a personal and organizational journey toward reconciliation, grounded in respect, learning, and accountability.
Key Responsibilities and Expectations
This position reports to the Research Manager. As a key member of a small highly motivated collaborative team, the Research Lead provides input into all aspects of Clear Seas’ activities.
Tasks include:
- Coordinate a multidimensional research program—plan and schedule research activities, manage external consultants, and deliver high-quality results to project partners.
- Gather, process, and manage spatial and non-spatial datasets, automating workflows where possible to improve efficiency and enhance reproducibility.
- Apply data analysis techniques to identify trends, patterns, and outliers in vessel traffic data, while clearly recording workflows, methodologies, and decisions.
- Create innovative data visualizations that translate research results into clear insights for both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Lead the development of research concepts into research proposals; develop research project proposals, synopsis sheets and requests for information or requests for proposals.
- Co-facilitate workshops on marine shipping topics, presenting technical information in accessible ways to reach a wide audience.
- Write reports and other project documentation.
- Support the incorporation of Traditional Knowledge into research efforts and provide research and mentorship support to Clear Seas’ Indigenous Internship program.
- Participate in Clear Seas’ internal reconciliation process.
- Perform all duties in compliance with Clear Seas policies and directives, assist in maintaining a positive, respectful work environment and assist in common tasks to maintain a high standard of occupational health and safety.
- Any other related tasks as required.
Preferred Qualifications & Attributes
- Graduate of a post-secondary program in science, social sciences, business, or a related field—or equivalent experience from any discipline or background.
- Experience using Excel for data analysis and visualisation.
- Familiarity with Python and some programming skills are desirable, with experience scripting, troubleshooting issues, and optimizing computational performance for working with large datasets.
- Experience applying research principles to structure research project plans with clear and achievable objectives.
- Experience in coordinating and leading projects using project management best practices.
- Curious and a problem-solver: Demonstrated interest in exploring complex issues.
- Strong organizational skills: Able to manage competing priorities and stay on top of project timelines. Detail-oriented and capable of executing multiple tasks efficiently.
- Self-motivated, independent, and innovative.
- Cultural competency and communication skills, including the ability to engage respectfully with diverse communities. Attentiveness to non-verbal communication, culturally appropriate language, and the ability to navigate conversations with cultural sensitivity is important.
- Interest in and familiarity with social, economic and environmental issues.
- Experience using GIS, specifically ArcGIS Pro, is an asset.
- Experience working with Indigenous communities in a Canadian context is an asset. Additional training will be provided to the successful candidate.
- Knowledge of commercial marine shipping issues and sustainable maritime transportation systems is an asset.
- Working proficiency in English is essential; bilingual French/English is an asset.
Location
Clear Seas is a remote organization, with employees located across Canada. The Research Lead will work remotely, with some travel expected for in-person team meetings and other events. Clear Seas holds an office space in downtown Vancouver.
Compensation
Compensation is more than just salary. Compensation includes all of the value derived from working at Clear Seas including benefits, vacation and flexibility that contributes to work-life balance. Our compensation strategy is aligned with our Clear Seas values and is designed to help build a team that can deliver our mission.
For this position, compensation includes:
- Salary of $65,000–85,000 per year, depending on experience
- Health benefits paid by the employer
- Life insurance
- Vacation and time off
- RRSP matching program
- Work flexibility
- Training and development
Application
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.