Project Specialist - 1 year term

Michael Smith Health Research BC•Vancouver, BC

3h•CA$70,000 - CA$85,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Michael Smith Health Research BC is seeking a Project Specialist, Priority Programs, to join their Research & Innovation department. This role is responsible for coordinating and managing core elements of Health Research BC’s priority programs, contributing to innovative approaches to research funding and community engagement, and bridging the gap between research evidence creation and its use. The Project Specialist will support the effective execution of program activities and high-quality outputs that advance program objectives and support the use of research evidence to improve health outcomes. This is a one-year contract position, with continuation subject to organizational needs and funding.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in business, communications, health sciences, or a related field.
Four to six years of relevant experience in project management, program operations, or a related area, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Strong knowledge of project management principles, methodologies, and tools.
Strong, applied knowledge of project planning, implementation, risk management, and continuous improvement practices.
Experience supporting budget tracking, forecasting, and financial reporting within projects or programs.
Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and experience using project management and collaboration tools.
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with the ability to interpret information, assess implications, and develop practical recommendations.
Proficiency in visual storytelling approaches that support effective knowledge mobilization and interested parties’ engagement.
Experience using tools such as PowerPoint, Canva, Adobe Acrobat, Visio, PowerBI or similar platforms to create polished, accessible, and audience appropriate materials.
Understanding of accessibility standards, visual communication principles, and information design best practices.
Strong interpersonal and relationship building skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across diverse interested parties.
Strong organizational skills with high attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey complex information and adapt messaging for different audiences.
Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, and Indigenous reconciliation.

Nice To Haves

Formal project management training or certification (e.g., PMP, CAPM, Prosci, Agile, Lean, or equivalent) is considered an asset.
Knowledge of the BC health research environment and research funding processes is an asset.

Responsibilities

Leads the execution of assigned program and project activities, ensuring deliverables are completed on time and align with program objectives.
Develops and maintains project plans, timelines, workback schedules, and implementation tools to support successful program delivery.
Monitors project progress, identifies risks, issues, and dependencies, and implements or recommends mitigation strategies.
Escalates complex issues to the Manager, Priority Programs with analysis and recommendations for resolution.
Develops and maintains program tools, resources, templates, and documentation to support operational excellence.
Monitors project level budgets, forecasts, and expenditures, ensuring alignment with program goals and identifying variances with recommended corrective actions.
Manages project related contracts and deliverables, ensuring compliance with agreements and proactively addressing issues with practical solutions.
Conducts environmental scanning and analysis related to assigned program areas, identifying trends, risks, and opportunities, and providing actionable recommendations.
Synthesizes research and program information into clear, accessible knowledge products for diverse audience.
Prepares high-quality reports, briefings, presentations, and other materials to support decision making and program oversight for the manager.
Translates complex research, evaluation, and program information into clear, accessible and engaging knowledge products for diverse audiences, supporting the uptake and application of evidence across the health system.
Collaborates with communications and program teams to ensure materials align with organizational standards and objectives.
Applies visual storytelling approaches, principles of accessibility, information design, and visual communication that support effective knowledge mobilization and interested parties’ engagement.
Coordinates governance and advisory committee activities, including agenda development, meeting logistics, documentation, action tracking, and follow-up activities.
Serves as a key point of contact for assigned projects and program activities, providing guidance, information, and coordination support to stakeholders.
Facilitates collaboration across multiple interested parties to advance shared priorities and deliver program outcomes.
Builds and maintains strong, collaborative working relationships with internal teams, health authorities, and community organizations to support program success.