EDI Specialist

EDI Specialist – Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, University of Toronto Mississauga

The Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences (CPS) is a dynamic, multidisciplinary group of scholars and teachers in astronomy, chemistry, Earth science, and physics, comprising 26 faculty, 15 administrative and technical staff, 30 research staff and postdoctoral fellows, 90 graduate students, and 1000 undergraduate program students. We are looking for an engaged, energetic, creative individual to lead us in a self-examination of our department, to determine where we can do better in the way we create an equitable environment, recruit members from underrepresented communities, and support an inclusive environment for all. We seek to develop strategies for processes and programs to improve our engagement with the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion, both within the department, and in our external-facing outreach and recruitment efforts. This is a unique, short-term position, and therefore there is considerable latitude to shape the role based on the interests and background of the candidate. Potential duties include:

Responsibilities & Duties

Provide Guidance and/or Direction on EDI matters by:

  • Keeping well-informed on theories, best practices, and trends related to equity, diversity, and inclusion
  • Networking with others working on EDI-related matters in other departments and units at U of T
  • Serving as a resource to the Chair, the EDI committee, other departmental committees (e.g., awards, colloquium, outreach), graduate and undergraduate groups, and other members of the department on EDI-related matters
  • Serving as a resource for individuals and groups with EDI-related concerns in the department

Identify EDI Concerns and Priorities within CPS

  • Identifying concerns around equity, diversity, and inclusion in various groups within the department
  • Identifying EDI-related priorities within the department, both internal- and external-facing
  • Developing and making recommendations for EDI-related policy, procedures and best practices for both recruitment and retention in the department

Develop EDI projects within CPS

  • Planning and overseeing the implementation of new and/or revised EDI-related policies, procedures, and events in the department. These could include:
    • Coordinating seminars, workshops, and training on EDI-related matters within the department
    • Leading the development of a code of conduct/ethics within the department
    • Leading the effort to build EDI-related matters in our department curriculum
    • Developing resources and strategies for improvement of recruitment of diverse individuals to our department at all levels
    • Developing and implementing community engagement strategies and plans aimed at increasing diversity in our department
    • Developing strategies to reduce financial barriers for student participation in research and field work
    • Developing mentor networks at various levels in the department
    • Developing a system to recognize and compensate contribution to EDI-related initiatives
  • Leveraging existing resources for projects and connecting with existing programs within UTM, U of T, and externally
  • Planning and overseeing the implementation of an evaluation framework for projects
  • Analyzing and documenting successes and adjustments to project implementation activities

Position Details

  • Start date: July 1, 2021 (Flexible)
  • Salary: Starting at $35/hour. Hourly rate is negotiable depending on qualifications and experience.
  • Duration: up to 6 months
  • Qualifications (Flexible)
    • Education: Graduate degree or an acceptable equivalent combination of education and experience in a relevant area of study, preferably with a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion.
    • Experience: Minimum of two (2) years of professional experience (or several years’ progressive experience) in complex institutional organizations, preferably post-secondary education institutions. Proven experience as an organizational leader. Successful record of advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion within a complex organization. Experience leading or facilitating significant organizational change. Demonstrated experience and competence in developing targeted training to diverse groups. A thorough understanding of the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act, Ontario Human Rights Code, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, and other relevant legislation/case law. Experience working with a diverse student body.
    • Skills: Highly proficient computer skills including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Internet and scholarly research skills. Skills in designing, executing, and interpreting survey data.
    • Other: Excellent command of contemporary equity, diversity, and inclusion concepts, paradigms and issues (e.g., recruitment and retention, access and equity, the educational impact of diversity, policy and legal dynamics of diversity). Ability to critically analyze the range of EDI paradigms, their strengths and limitations, and to articulate these to a diverse audience. Ability to research, identify, and implement best practices of equity, diversity, and inclusion. Knowledge of current trends, legislation, and regulations in Human Rights in the context of higher education. Research and analytical skills (including statistical analysis and interpretation). Demonstrated ability to serve as an internal resource and consultant. Demonstrated understanding of the elements and dynamics of organizational change. Excellent communication skills, interpersonal skills, and emotional intelligence. Demonstrated judgement, sensitivity, and decision-making skills.

To apply

Send a cover letter describing your qualifications and interests, a CV, and the names and contact information for two or three references to Ekana McAlister at cps.utm@utoronto.ca. Applications will be reviewed beginning on May 3, 2021 but will continue to be accepted until the position is filled.