Research & Compliance Specialist

Toronto Zoo; Toronto; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Toronto Zoo seeks a Research & Compliance Specialist dedicated to supporting wildlife preservation through effective research and compliance activities. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills, a background in animal research, and a commitment to animal welfare and regulatory standards. This role involves managing various databases, liaising with regulatory bodies, and ensuring compliance with AZA and CCAC guidelines in a dynamic environment that prioritizes animal well-being.

Benefits

Inclusive workplace practices

Diversity and equity initiatives

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years of relevant work experience.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and discretion.
• Knowledge of AZA accreditation standards and CCAC guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Assist Research & Compliance Officer with documentation and event organization.
• Maintain databases and track compliance initiatives.
• Coordinate peer reviews and assist with institutional literacy campaigns.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal Skills

Confidentiality

Data Entry

Typing skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in animal research-related field

Registered Lab Animal Technician certification

Veterinary Technician certification

Tools

Microsoft Office

SharePoint

OneDrive

Job description

Looking for a career with a dynamic organization that is committed to protecting wildlife? We are interested in dedicated individuals who are positive, enthusiastic, and passionate about connecting people, animals, and conservation science to fight extinction. Your Toronto Zoo makes animal well-being a priority in all operations and shows respect for all wildlife.

Apply Online by July 24, 2024.

Basic Function : The Research & Compliance Specialist is responsible for providing assistance to the Research & Compliance Office within the Wildlife Science Division and assists with core research operations and regulatory compliance activities. This position will assist and provide support in implementing the Strategic Plan.

Responsibilities :

• Assists the Research & Compliance Officer with correspondence, memos and reports, filing research documentation, special events and programs, as well as organizing and taking minutes at meetings and site inspections.
• Performs editing and research duties as required, including data entry and ongoing maintenance of multiple databases.
• Performs, but is not restricted to, the following research and compliance responsibilities : Works closely with RCO Officer to implement needed program changes based on updated AZA standards and policies, and CCAC guidelines, including updating / revisions to institutional policies / protocols and ongoing maintenance. Closely involved with the collection of information and documents for the preparation of CCAC pre-assessment, AZA accreditation, and Animals for Research Act inspections, as well as planning and logistics for visits. Assists with the timely completion of institutional reports to governing and accrediting bodies, as well document preparation for AZA Commission hearings. Works closely with the collection of confidential and sensitive information and documentation. Monitors animal use protocols and research projects from approval until completion, arranges and conducts post-approval monitoring (PAM) site visits, documents and completes PAM checklists and research animal welfare assessments and ensures any protocol violations are followed up on and addressed. Ensures databases are accurately maintained for the Animal Care & Use Program (ACUP) and compliance initiatives, including tracking active research, animal use data, site visits and RCO audits, and AZA’s Annual Report on Conservation Science (ARCS); as well as ensuring the Animal-based Research SharePoint page is kept current. Maintains the ACRC-AZA-OMAFRA Inspection Status Report and submits work orders for the summary of items requiring correction, including accurate and timely entry and follow-up. Maintains specimen / biomaterials, data, animal behavioural observation, and researcher pass requests submitted to the Research & Compliance office. Coordinates scientific and / or pedagogical peer reviews and tracks animal user training. Assists with institutional literacy campaigns for the ACUP and governing and accrediting bodies, and shares general compliance and science communications, including developing Learning Management Systems (LMS) modules as required. Assists with the timely completion of FOI requests, complaints received from the ministry and Solicitor General, including CCAC and AZA, as well as submission reports on animal incidents and occurrences at Toronto Zoo. Coordinates the AZA’s Annual Report on Conservation Science (ARCS).
• Coordinates onsite and offsite facility visits and transporting guest / attendees.
• Assists with conservation and science projects.
• Performs other divisional office duties as required.

Experience Required

Qualifications :

• Must have a completed a Bachelor’s degree in an animal research-related field plus professional designation / certification in lab animal science. Registered Lab Animal Technician and / or Veterinary Technician certification preferred, or the equivalent amount of training and related experience.
• Must have a minimum of 4 years of professional work experience in the same or similar position.
• Experience serving on an animal care committee and knowledge of the protocol approval process is an asset.
• Must possess the ability to maintain confidentiality and discretion.
• Must possess and maintain knowledge and understanding of AZA accreditation standards and legislated requirements for animal-based research, such as the Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) policies and guidelines, as well as provincial Animals for Research Act legislation.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills, along with strong communications skills.
• Must have a proven record of being able to exercise discretion in the handling of confidential matters.
• Must be able to prepare letters, reports, charts and manuscripts.
• Must possess exceptional typing skills.
• Must have knowledge of medical and biological terminology.
• Well developed interpersonal skills, along with strong communication skills
• Working knowledge of the Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act and WHMIS legislation is an asset.
• Must possess an unrestricted Class G driver’s license valid in the Province of Ontario along with a good driving record.
• Must be knowledgeable in the use of computerized programs and systems, including the use of computerized programs, including Microsoft Office, SharePoint, OneDrive and E-mail.
• Must be able to work weekends, shifts and holidays as scheduled.
• Must be able to deal with staff and the public in a courteous and efficient manner.
• Capable of meeting the physical demands of the position. While we appreciate the interest of all applicants, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. The successful candidate may be required to provide a police reference check and / or driver’s abstract, at their own expense as a condition of employment. Candidates may be required to take a written and / or practical examination relevant to the position.The Toronto Zoo values the importance of inclusive recruitment practices and strives to create a workplace that reflects and celebrates the rich diversity of our city. Please let us know if you require specific accommodations to be in place before you begin the interview process. The Toronto Zoo respects the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion and seeks to model these principles in all that we do. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workforce where all employees feel respected, supported and valued. We strive to create an environment that represents the rich diversity of our guests and our community and encourage applications from all qualified individuals who can contribute to enhancing our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Applications are especially encouraged from racialized persons / persons of colour, Indigenous / Aboriginal People of North America, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S+ persons, and women. Join our Talent CommunityStay in-the-know about great career opportunities at your Toronto Zoo. Join our Talent Community and stay connected

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