First Peoples Law LLP is seeking a research assistant from May to August, 2026.
Who We Are
First Peoples Law is committed to defending and advancing Indigenous Peoples’ inherent and constitutionally protected rights. Our objective is to play a meaningful role in Indigenous Peoples’ ongoing pursuit of a more respectful and equitable world for themselves and their children.
We offer in-house historical research services to support the research, development, and negotiation of legal claims on behalf of our clients.
We provide the highest-quality legal and historical research services to our clients while actively participating in public education initiatives. Our work includes providing historical research, legal representation and strategic advice to First Nations, Indigenous groups and Indigenous corporate entities across Canada.
What We Offer
First Peoples Law provides a unique opportunity to work collaboratively with recognized leading lawyers and our historical research team on cutting-edge Indigenous rights issues. We offer a flexible work environment, competitive remuneration, benefits, and a supportive team with offices in Ottawa and Vancouver.
What We're Looking For
First Peoples Law is seeking a graduate student in the field of history to join our team as a Research Assistant for a full-time fixed term position from May to August 2026. The Research Assistant will primarily work remotely but may have the option of working from the First Peoples Law office in Ottawa or Vancouver.
The ideal candidate will have the following combination of skills and experience:
• BA in the field of history, archival studies, and / or anthropology (other similar disciplines in the social sciences will be considered);
• currently enrolled in a graduate program at a Canadian university in the field of history;
• creative and collaborative approach to problem solving;
• strong work ethic and positive team attitude;
• strong analytical, communication, and writing skills;
• digitally enabled/engaged and comfortable with using and learning technology;
• ability to work well under pressure, both independently and as part of a team;
• excellent organizational skills;
• a strong understanding of the history of Canada and Indigenous Peoples in Canada;
• experience working in First Nations communities is an asset; and
• a sense of humor.
Description of Position
The successful candidate will work collaboratively with our team to deliver high-quality research services to our clients.
The primary responsibilities will include:
• transcribe and code handwritten archival documents, land registers, and oral history interviews;
• upload and file archival materials to historical cabinet;
• draft finding aids for historical cabinet archival materials;
• re-profile exiting historical cabinet materials to include source ID footnotes;
• identify, order, and review Royal Navy and HBC logbooks for the BC coast (1850-1900);
• retrieve subject reels from online databases (i.e. Canadiana); and
• accompany historians to scan and photograph archival documents at key archives.
The salary for this position is $5,200 per month.
How to Apply
The diversity of our team strengthens our values and commitment to creating a respectful and collaborative workplace. Indigenous ancestry is considered directly relevant to the skills and knowledge preferred, and Indigenous applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.
Applicants may submit a cover letter, CV and proof of enrolment in MA program
to careers@firstpeopleslaw.com. Please include the name of the position you wish to apply for in the subject line. We will be accepting applications until February 28, 2026.
View our other positions here.