Research Operations Support Specialist

We invite you to apply for the Research Operations Support Specialist role at Vancouver Island University
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This range is provided by Vancouver Island University. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

CA $34.23/hr - CA $34.23/hr

The Research Operations Support Specialist will facilitate the delivery of regionally relevant applied research on VIU's Nanaimo Campus and at VIU's Deep Bay Marine Field Station. The position is hands‑on, primarily in marine sciences but also in health sciences, and focuses on day‑to‑day tasks that enhance research outputs.

We culture many strains of algae daily as feed for shellfish and produce kelp on a variety of substrates for research, education, and restoration.

We support research on Pacific oysters, Japanese scallops, and local clam species. We collect, condition, spawn, and care for shellfish used in research and education and outplant them on our aquaculture lease when ready.

We support the use of fin fish on our Nanaimo campus for research and educational purposes. Species commonly housed include salmonids and sturgeon. We maintain RAS and flow‑through aquatic systems, dechlorination systems, and wastewater management systems.

Great research requires precise measurement. We support and maintain a wide variety of scientific instrumentation and assist in the use of this equipment when needed.

We are a federally licensed finfish hatchery, shellfish hatchery, and shellfish farm. We support researchers in understanding their regulatory requirements and assist them in maintaining compliance. VIU also holds a Certificate of Good Animal Practice from the Canadian Council on Animal Care and takes our responsibilities for the ethical and humane use of animals for research and education very seriously.

We build research systems, assist in the use of VIU buildings for research, and help with the installation of equipment and other infrastructure needed for research.

We are purposeful about creating a fun, engaging, and supportive workplace. We interact regularly with external partners and get to work with the people who benefit from our research. We work indoors, outdoors, on boats, and all over Vancouver Island with partners like the Bamfield Centre for Marine Sciences and many First Nations.

• Thrives in a highly functional team that works hard, gets results, and follows the process to deliver researcher needs.
• Cares about work friends, helps colleagues on tough days, and respects workplace diversity.
• Continuously learns and adds to skillset.
• Is a science geek who loves discovery of new knowledge.
• Has high attention to detail; success achieved through many small tasks done properly.
• Loves cleaning: glassware, life‑support systems, instrumentation, wet lab space, office.
• Is not intimidated by technology and becomes proficient in instrumentation, automated systems, and novel software.

• B.Sc. in Biology, Marine Biology, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Systems Engineering, or a relevant field.
• 3‑5 years of experience in several of the activities listed above. We do not expect knowledge in all areas, but we want to hear what you’re good at and why you’d like to learn more.
• Class 5 driver’s licence with a satisfactory driving record.

• M.Sc. in Biology, Marine Biology, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Systems Engineering, or a relevant field.
• 5+ years of experience in several of the activities listed above.

Eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefit plan, ample paid holiday time, professional development opportunities, a desirable pension plan, strategic discounts, flexible work opportunities, and well‑being initiatives.

Short‑listed candidates must provide original transcripts or applicable original certifications at the time of interview. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given.

Vancouver Island University is committed to building and sustaining a diverse and inclusive environment for faculty, staff, and students. Applicants from equity‑seeking communities are encouraged to apply. Disclosure and/or self‑identification with an equity‑seeking group will not affect the consideration of the application.