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 for a more respectful and equitable world for themselves and their children.
We provide the highest-quality legal services to our clients while actively participating in public education initiatives. Our work includes providing representation and strategic advice to First Nations, Indigenous groups and Indigenous corporate entities across Canada.
A significant portion of our work consists of Specific Claims, which address First Nations' historical claims from the colonial period to the late twentieth century - especially those dealing with Canada's establishment of reserves, administration of reserves, and fulfillment of Treaty obligations.
What We Offer
First Peoples Law provides a unique opportunity to work collaboratively with recognized leading lawyers and on behalf of inspiring clients across the country 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
We are seeking an experienced historical researcher who shares our dedication to the pursuit of justice for Indigenous Peoples.
The successful candidate will join our in-house historical research team. This full-time position would be well-suited for a historian passionate about the history of Indigenous Peoples.
The ideal candidate will have the following combination of skills and experience:
graduate degree (master's or equivalent) in history, archival studies, or a related field
familiarity with the history of Indigenous Peoples nation-wide, with a particular focus on Manitoba and Saskatchewan
knowledge of and familiarity with Treaty history nation-wide
understanding of and experience navigating the collections at Library and Archives Canada
knowledge of and experience with records management
creative and collaborative approach to problem solving
detail-oriented
strong analytical, communication, and writing skills
ability to work independently and willing to travel to conduct archival research
familiarity with Canada’s Specific Claims process is an asset
Description of Position
The historical researcher will work out of the First Peoples Law office in either Ottawa or Vancouver. Full-time remote work may be considered, subject to the location of applicant.
The primary responsibilities will include:
researching/retrieving historical documents
conducting primary archival and oral history research
developing research methodologies
drafting historical reports
jointly developing historical legal claims in partnership with our legal experts
completing records management projects as directed (i.e. creating document indexes)
compiling transcriptions
collaborating with the research team on the development of internal resources to support the research process
The estimated salary range for this position is between $80,000 - $95,000. Compensation will be determined on an individual basis, taking into account the applicant’s qualifications, skills and experience, applicable market rates, and other relevant considerations.
How to Apply
Applicants may submit a cover letter and CV 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 on a rolling basis until the position is filled.