Controller
Sherbrooke, QC · On-site
Reporting to the Associate Vice-President (AVP), Financial Services, the University Controller ... Lead the University's financial reporting obligations (i.e. complex financial statements, and ...
Controller
Sherbrooke, QC · On-site
Reporting to the Associate Vice-President (AVP), Financial Services, the University Controller ... Lead the University's financial reporting obligations (i.e. complex financial statements, and ...
Research Associate I information
What is the difference between Research Associate I vs Research Associate II?
| Aspect | Research Associate I | Research Associate II |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Bachelor's degree in relevant field | Bachelor's or Master's degree, more experience |
| Work Environment | Entry-level research settings, laboratories | Similar environments, with increased responsibilities |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Common in biotech, pharma, academia | Same industries, higher expectations |
The main difference between Research Associate I and Research Associate II lies in experience and responsibility. Research Associate II typically requires more experience or advanced education and involves more complex tasks. Both roles are found in similar environments and industries, but Research Associate II often takes on greater responsibilities and may supervise junior staff.
How to become a research associate I?
To become a Research Associate I, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, engineering, or social sciences. Relevant skills include data analysis, laboratory techniques, and familiarity with research tools; some positions may require prior research experience or internships. Entry-level roles often require strong communication skills and attention to detail.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Research Associate I?
To thrive as a Research Associate I, you need a solid background in scientific research methods, data analysis, and a relevant bachelor's or master's degree in a scientific field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical software (such as SPSS, R, or Excel), and adherence to standard operating procedures is often required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you excel in collaborative research environments. These skills ensure accurate data collection, reliable results, and successful teamwork in advancing research objectives.
What does a Research Associate I do?
A Research Associate I is an entry-level professional who assists in conducting scientific research, experiments, and data analysis under the supervision of senior researchers. Their responsibilities often include preparing laboratory materials, collecting and analyzing data, maintaining accurate records, and helping to write reports or papers. This role is typically found in academic, medical, or industrial research settings and provides valuable experience for those pursuing a career in research or laboratory sciences.
What are some common challenges faced by a Research Associate I, and how can they be addressed?
As a Research Associate I, one common challenge is balancing multiple projects with tight deadlines while maintaining accuracy in data collection and analysis. This role often requires adapting quickly to shifting priorities and collaborating with both senior researchers and laboratory teams. Developing strong organizational and communication skills can help manage these demands effectively. Additionally, proactively seeking feedback and clarifying expectations with supervisors can ensure research objectives are met efficiently.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research I jobs in Quebec? The most popular types of Research I jobs in Quebec are:
What cities in Quebec are hiring for Research Associate I jobs? Cities in Quebec with the most Research Associate I job openings:
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO
Posted 19 days ago
Job description
Please refer to theHow to Apply for a Job (for External Candidates)job aid for instructions on how to apply.
If you are an active McGill employee (ie: currently in an active contract or position at McGill University), do not apply through this Career Site. Login to your McGill Workday account and apply to this posting using the Find Jobs report (type Find Jobs in the search bar).
Established in 1821, McGill University is an internationally known, research-intensive and student-centred university and a Canadian leader in higher education. Located in Montreal, one of the world's great cities.
McGill University has embarked on an ambitious transformation through Horizon McGill, a strategic initiative that supports the President's Transform priority and our vision of evolving with purpose. More than a change initiative, Horizon McGill represents a community-wide commitment to building a stronger, more sustainable, and future-ready university.
By fostering financial sustainability, operational excellence, and long-term institutional resilience, Horizon McGill is creating the conditions for McGill to thrive in an increasingly complex and competitive environment. Every decision is guided by our commitment to preserving what matters most: excellence in teaching, learning, and research.
The Financial Services division at McGill has a staff complement of approximately 140. It provides leadership in financial management in support of the University's mission. McGill's operating budget is approximately $1.2 billion, and its overall revenues are close to $1.9 billion. Financial Services is one of seven (7) units reporting to the Vice-President (Administration and Finance), together with Financial Services, Facilities Management and Ancillary Services, Information Technology Services, Office of Investments, Office of Sustainability, Sustainability Park and Internal Audit.
For more information on McGill, please refer to the University's website at www.mcgill.ca
McGill is actively seeking its next University Controller
Position Summary:
Reporting to the Associate Vice-President (AVP), Financial Services, the University Controller ensures the integrity of the University's financial information, leads the preparation of institutional financial statements, and provides expert advice on accounting standards, financial policies, taxation, and financial risk. The Controller also provides strategic leadership for the University's financial reporting, accounting operations, internal controls, and regulatory compliance functions.
Leading a multidisciplinary team, the University Controller develops and strengthens financial governance frameworks. The role ensures regulatory compliance with applicable legislation, accounting standards, and University policies while advancing continuous improvement in financial processes and systems.
As a senior leader within Financial Services, the Controller will play an active role in the ongoing transformation of the finance function, including the modernization of its operating model, financial processes, reporting and financial information systems. The role will contribute to shaping and implementing this transformation by helping strengthen governance, improve effectiveness, and support the development of a more efficient and service-oriented finance function
Primary Responsibilities:
- Provide strategic leadership for the University's financial reporting and accounting functions, ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of financial information and the preparation and delivery of the University's financial statements in accordance with applicable accounting standards.
- Provide strategic financial analysis and advice to support institutional planning, decision-making, and the evaluation of complex financial initiatives.
- Lead the development, implementation, and continuous enhancement of financial policies, internal controls, and governance practices to safeguard University assets, strengthen accountability, and ensure compliance with regulatory, legislative, and institutional requirements.
- Lead the University's financial reporting obligations (i.e. complex financial statements, and statutory reports, etc.), including reporting to senior administration, the Board of Governors and its committees, government agencies, funding bodies, financial institutions, and other external stakeholders.
- Provide expert strategic advice on accounting, taxation, financial analysis, and financial management, supporting institutional planning, risk-informed decision-making, and the evaluation of complex financial initiatives.
- Direct the University's accounting operations and financial systems, ensuring the effective stewardship of financial records, the integrity of financial data, and the successful delivery of key financial initiatives and continuous process improvements.
- Oversee the University's financial monitoring and compliance function, ensuring adherence to financial policies, internal controls, reporting requirements, and regulatory, legislative, and institutional obligations, while identifying risks and supporting timely remediation.
- Lead and develop a high-performing team by establishing strategic priorities, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning while driving organizational change.
- Build and maintain strong partnerships across the University and with external stakeholders, collaborating with senior leaders, auditors, government officials, professional associations, and peer institutions to support institutional priorities and promote best practices in financial management.
Other Qualifying Skills and/or Abilities
The ideal candidate for this role holds a CPA Auditor designation (Additional relevant professional designations such as CBV or CFA considered an asset) and an undergraduate degree in Accounting, Finance, Commerce, Business Administration, or a related discipline. A master's degree in a relevant discipline is also asset.
- Extensive knowledge of Canadian ASNPO (Accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations) and 8+ years of demonstrated experience in a senior financial and budget management role, ideally in higher education, public sector, healthcare, or other highly regulated, complex organizations (strong asset), leading and direct overseeing the preparation of accurate and timely financial statements and reports.
- Strategic and collaborative leadership with demonstrated exemplary integrity, sound judgment, and an unwavering commitment to accountability and financial stewardship.
- Deep expertise in financial controls, compliance, taxation, audit, budgeting, and financial reporting.
- Highly analytical and solutions-oriented professional who translates complex financial information into clear, actionable insights that support institutional decision-making.
- Strong track-record of advancing risk management practices and implementing effective financial policies and processes.
- Extensive experience presenting financial information and strategic recommendations to executive leadership, governing boards, and audit committees.
As one of Montreal's Top Employers, here is what we offer:
- Competitive benefits package (Health, Dental, Life Insurance) (if eligible)
- Defined contribution pension plan (with employer contribution up to 10%) (if eligible)
- Group Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) and Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA)
- Competitive vacation policy
- Two (2) personal days
- Two (2) floating holidays
- Nine (9) "Summer Fridays" - paid days off between the St-Jean Baptiste holiday and Labour Day
- Paid time off over the December holiday period
- Tuition waiver for regular employees and their dependents
- Up to two (2) days of remote work per week where the position permits
Before applying, please note that to work at McGill University, you must be both authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in the province of Quebec at the campus where the position is based / located.
Knowledge of English: McGill University is an English-language university where day to day duties may require English communication both verbally and in writing. The level of English required for this position has been assessed at a level #4
For a definition of our language proficiency levels, please click here.
Minimum Education and Experience:
Annual Salary:
Job Profile:
MPEX-FIN4C - Audit, Risk, Insurance & Investments - Director or equivalentHours per Week:
Supervisor:
Position End Date (If applicable):
Deadline to Apply:
McGill University hires on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. We welcome applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated groups to self-identify. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, accessibilityrequest.hr@mcgill.ca.