Humanitarian Search Team

Government of Manitoba; Winnipeg; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A provincial government in Manitoba is seeking a Forensic Anthropology Search Technician for physically demanding work involving the humanitarian search of landfill areas. Candidates should have an academic background in biological or forensic anthropology and strong attention to detail. Experience working with Indigenous communities is considered an asset. The role requires adaptability to various conditions and adherence to strict ethical protocols.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to differentiate between bone and non-bone materials.
• Familiarity with recognition of various forms of soft tissue.
• Experience in manual labour or field-based work is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough systematic visual and manual searches for potential human remains.
• Ensure material is properly spread for examination.
• Follow culturally sensitive and ethical practices throughout the search process.

Skills

Excellent attention to detail

Ability to follow detailed instructions

Ability to work respectfully as a productive member of a team

Strong professional ethics

Effective interpersonal skills

Strong verbal communication skills

Education

Academic background in biological or forensic anthropology

Job description

Overview

HR2 Forensic Anthropology Search Technician 2 – Term/full-time; Term/part-time

Manitoba Indigenous Reconciliation Secretariat
Humanitarian Search Team
Winnipeg, MB

Advertisement Number: 44631

Salary: HR2 $30.49 - $40.28 per hour

Closing Date: October 6, 2025

The Manitoba government recognizes the importance of building an exemplary public service reflective of the citizens it serves, where diverse abilities, backgrounds, cultures, identities, languages and perspectives drives a high standard of service and innovation. The Manitoba government supports equitable employment practices and promotes representation of designated groups (women, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities, visible minorities).

This is a preference competition. All applicants are encouraged to apply; first consideration will be given to Indigenous people. Applicants are requested to self-declare at the time of application.

Role and Responsibilities

The Manitoba government is looking for dedicated individuals to join our Search Team for the Humanitarian Search of the Brady Road Landfill for remains of Ashlee Shingoose. The work requires sensitivity, attention to detail, physical endurance and commitment to seeing the search through. The work will not be easy; it will be physically and mentally taxing and can also take an emotional toll. Resources for emotional supports will be available for search personnel.

Search Technicians will report to Forensic Anthropology Search Team Leads and will work closely with other searchers, including family and community members of Ashlee.

Conditions of Employment

Must be legally entitled to work in Canada

• Ability to work extended shifts, evenings and weekends as required

• Ability to work a physically demanding role

• Ability to perform physical labour for extended working hours (10 hours/day with breaks throughout)
• Ability to perform repetitive and physically strenuous tasks for long periods of time, such as standing, walking, raking, bending, and carrying materials 25lbs+ while wearing PPE
• Resilience and adaptability to work in different weather conditions
• Must be able to wear a full or half-face respirator mask, eye protection, hard hat, work gloves, steel toe boots, and Tyvek coveralls while performing physical labour for extended periods of time
• Visual acuity to scan and differentiate small materials
• Hand-eye coordination for picking up small items

• Must complete required search training, including WHMIS, Biohazard, Respectful Workplace training, and all other training deemed necessary

• Must produce a satisfactory Criminal Record Check

• Satisfactory security screening

Qualifications

• Academic background in biological or forensic anthropology or a combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.
• Demonstrated ability to differentiate between bone and non-bone materials, gained through either academic training in a relevant discipline or lived experience in applicable settings.
• Familiarity with recognition of various forms of soft tissue, supported by formal education or hands-on experience.
• Experience in manual labour or field-based work is considered an asset, especially where it has contributed to observational skills and physical resilience

Skills

• Excellent attention to detail
• Ability to follow detailed instructions
• Ability to work respectfully as a productive member of a team
• Ability to stay on task and maintain focus for extended periods
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with multiple demands
• Understanding and respect for sacred protocol and practices throughout the process
• Ability to respect the integrity of the process
• Experience working with Indigenous communities and/or MMIWG2S+ is an asset
• Strong professional ethics and familiarity with anthropological ethics
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality
• Effective interpersonal skills
• Strong verbal communication skills

Duties

• Conduct thorough systematic visual and manual searches of landfill material for potential human remains and personal effects.
• Ensure material is properly spread and bags are opened to facilitate examination.
• Follow culturally sensitive and ethical scientific practices throughout the search process.
• Perform required health and safety duties daily within and outside the search facility:
  • Effective and proper use of PPE
  • Adherence to health and safety protocols at all times
  • Maintenance of decontamination spaces, communal and high-traffic areas
• Other duties as assigned by Forensic Anthropology Search Team Leads and Director of Operations.

Application

Apply to: Advertisement # 44631

Talent Acquisition - Executive Recruitment
Human Resource Services
608-330 Portage Avenue
Winnipeg, MB, R3C 0C4

Phone: [phone] | Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

Applicants may request reasonable accommodation related to the materials or activities used throughout the selection process. When applying to this position, please indicate the advertisement number and position title in the subject line and/or body of your email. Your cover letter, resumé and/or application must clearly indicate how you meet the qualifications.

We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.