Research Librarian

Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP; Toronto; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP in Canada seeks a Research Librarian to provide in-depth legal and business research to lawyers, students and staff. You will guide research resources, develop training materials and monitor current awareness including case law and legislation.

The role requires a MLIS/MLS and at least two years of law library experience, with proficiency in Westlaw, Lexis+, Bloomberg Law and related tools.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Library Science/Information Studies (MLIS, MISt or MLS) or equivalent degree from an accredited Library Science program
• A minimum of two years of experience in a law library
• Thorough understanding of and experience with legal and business research methodologies and resources; knowledge of the legislative process and experience conducting legislative research
• Familiarity with the legal systems of Canada, the United States and Commonwealth jurisdictions
• Proficiency with major online legal and business research platforms, including Westlaw Advantage, Lexis+, Bloomberg Law, Avantis and Capital IQ
• Curiosity and exceptional problem-solving skills
• Self-motivation, attention to detail and strong organizational skills, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple time-sensitive and diverse projects
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong commitment to client service

Responsibilities

• Providing timely, in-depth, specialized and complex legal and business research to lawyers, students and staff, including providing guidance on research resources, strategy and methodology
• Developing training materials and leading orientation sessions for students in advanced legal research methodology and resources
• Promoting current awareness through media, case law and legislation monitoring
• Assisting in the evaluation of new research tools and resources, and making recommendations for the acquisition of print and electronic resources
• Maintaining and developing the library’s content on the firm Intranet, including research guides and self-service resources
• Staying current with developments and innovations in the profession, including the use of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies in legal research

Skills

Advanced legal research

Attention to detail

Strong written & verbal communication

Independent & collaborative work

Time management & multi-projects

Education

MLIS/MISt/MLS or equivalent

2+ years law library experience

Tools

Westlaw Advantage

Lexis+

Bloomberg Law

Avantis

Capital IQ

Job description

Davies is a top-tier Canadian law firm focused on high-stakes matters. With offices in Montréal, Toronto and New York, we are consistently at the centre of the most challenging deals and cases in Canada and abroad.

A position at Davies is more than just a job. When you join the firm, you will be welcomed by a team that places as much emphasis on supporting its people as it does on serving its prestigious clients. As such, we have created a collaborative environment where team members of all backgrounds feel appreciated and are encouraged to share their ideas while working alongside some of the brightest legal and business professionals who are eager to share their knowledge and experience.

The Research Librarian is a key member of the Library Services team, reporting to the Partner, Knowledge and Pricing. This is an existing vacancy.

Primary Responsibilities

• Providing timely, in-depth, specialized and complex legal and business research to lawyers, students and staff, including providing guidance on research resources, strategy and methodology
• Developing training materials and leading orientation sessions for students in advanced legal research methodology and resources
• Promoting current awareness through media, case law and legislation monitoring
• Assisting in the evaluation of new research tools and resources, and making recommendations for the acquisition of print and electronic resources
• Maintaining and developing the library’s content on the firm Intranet, including research guides and self-service resources
• Staying current with developments and innovations in the profession, including the use of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies in legal research

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Library Science/Information Studies (MLIS, MISt or MLS) or equivalent degree from an accredited Library Science program
• A minimum of two years of experience in a law library
• Thorough understanding of and experience with legal and business research methodologies and resources; knowledge of the legislative process and experience conducting legislative research
• Familiarity with the legal systems of Canada, the United States and Commonwealth jurisdictions
• Proficiency with major online legal and business research platforms, including Westlaw Advantage, Lexis+, Bloomberg Law, Avantis and Capital IQ
• Curiosity and exceptional problem-solving skills
• Self-motivation, attention to detail and strong organizational skills, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple time-sensitive and diverse projects
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong commitment to client service

Salary Range

The expected starting salary range for this role is $90,000 - $105,000. The final offer will be determined based on the successful candidate's experience and qualifications.

Davies may utilize artificial intelligence (AI) as part of our application screening process, including in reviewing applications to help identify candidates whose skills and experience align with the requirements of the role.

Davies is committed to providing a diverse, inclusive and accessible workplace for candidates and firm members with disabilities. Please let us know of any accommodations you may require at any time during the recruitment process.