Research Assistant (Bachelor's Degree, Recent Graduates)

Take a central role

The Bank of Canada has a vision to be a leading central bank—dynamic, engaged and trusted—committed to a better Canada. No other employer in the country offers you the unique opportunity to work at the very center of Canada’s economy, in an organization with significant impact on the economic and financial well-being of all Canadians. You will be challenged, energized and motivated to excel in our environment. 

Each year, bachelor-level graduates’ step into the role of Research Assistant, becoming integral members of our economic and financial analysis teams. These positions, primarily based at our Head Office in Ottawa, allow you to dive into the daily activities that drive the Bank's core functions. Occasionally, opportunities arise in our Regional Offices across Canada. As a Research Assistant, you'll spend your days working with a wide variety of economic and financial data and gaining hands-on experience, contributing directly to the work we do.

Building on the principles that have always guided us – excellence, integrity and respect – we strive to be forward-looking and innovative, to welcome people with diverse perspectives and talents, and to earn trust by living up to our commitments and by clearly explaining the intent of our policies and actions.  

With our defined-benefit pension plan, benefits, and high flexibility for work life balance - find out more about why we are annually ranked as one of Canada's top employers:  Working Here - Bank of Canada

Find out more about the next steps in our Recruitment process. 

A Day in the Life of a Research Assistant 

Start your day by staying up to date on the latest economic and financial news. You will ensure that the Bank’s tracking and analyzing tools are working smoothly. You will support the Bank’s economists in preparing clear, concise reports and impactful presentations for senior leadership and Governing Council.  This work helps build data-driven narratives that influence policy recommendations and contribute to the Bank’s policy decisions.

Research Assistant contribute to meaningful work across the Bank. You may collaborate with researchers on  innovative projects, help conduct surveys, participate in consultations with Canadian businesses and other stakeholders, or support the publication of key reports, such as the Monetary Policy Report.

You will have opportunities for professional development through research seminars, new software and tools, recent economic thinking, and mentorship from colleagues across the Bank. Mentorship may happen informally through day-to-day work or through the Bank's mentorship program.

Eligibility
To be considered for this opportunity you must have completed a bachelor’s degree between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2027, in either of the following fields:

• Economics
• Finance
• Mathematics or Statistics
  • With a minor in Economics or Finance  
• Business Administration; Commerce; or Computer Science
  • With a major in Economics or Finance

Skills

• Excellent analytical, research, and problem-solving abilities
• Experience in data collection and analysis
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, especially Excel
• Commitment to continuous learning
• Ability to work both collaboratively and independently
• Demonstrated ability to communicate complex information clearly and concisely, both in writing and verbally
• Proficiency with statistical or coding tools like MATLAB, Python, EViews, R, Julia, Stata, C/Fortran, ArcGIS, Bloomberg, Reuters, VBA, SQL, etc.

Assets
Knowledge of econometrics, financial modeling, market developments, or regulatory policy.

Recruitment Process

Application
To be considered you must submit the following documents:

1. Resume
   
   
2. Cover letter tailored to why you want to work at the Bank and how your skills make you a strong candidate
   
   
3. Official or unofficial transcript with courses clearly identified by their name

      Selection

1. Candidates selected to move forward will be required to complete a programming assessment; the exercise is designed to assess your data analysis and programming skills and must be completed by you

2. Interviews are structured to provide comprehensive evaluation of each candidate’s qualifications and fit for the role; answers to the programing assessment will be discussed during the interview

Positions are filled year-round based on operational requirements. If you’ve previously applied, we encourage you to re-apply.

Innovative Mindset

We value candidates who demonstrate adaptability, curiosity, and a willingness to learn new technologies, including AI and digital tools. We seek individuals who can think critically about data, question existing processes, and find ways to simplify our work while embracing change and new ways of doing things. 

Language requirement
The Bank’s work environment is conducive to the use of both of Canada’s official languages - English and French. Although the position language requirement is English or French essential, we do encourage everyone to improve their second language proficiency for future career growth and to contribute towards fostering a bilingual environment.

What you need to know

• • Priority will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents
  • Security level required: Be eligible to obtain Reliability 
  • Relocation assistance may be provided, if required
  • Please save a copy of the job poster. Once the closing date has passed, it will no longer be available. 

Hybrid Work Model

The Bank offers work arrangements that provide employees with flexibility, enable high-performing teams, and support an excellent workplace culture. Most employees can telework from home for a portion of each month as part of the Bank’s hybrid work model, and they are expected on site at the Bank location a minimum of 12 days per month to help build connections between colleagues. You must live in Canada, and within reasonable commuting distance of the office.  

What you can expect from us
This is a great opportunity to join a leading organization and be part of a high-performing team. We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package designed to meet your needs at every stage of your life and career. For more information on key benefits please visit A great deal to consider. 

• • Salaries are based on qualifications and experience and typically range from $66,179 to $77,858 (job grade 13)
  • The Bank offers an incentive for successfully meeting expectations at  3 to 5% of your base salary. The Bank offers additional performance pay (2%) for those who exceed expectations. Exceptional performers who far exceed expectations may be eligible for higher performance pay.
  • Flexible and comprehensive benefits so you can choose the level of health and dental coverage that meets your needs
  • Extra vacation days (up to five each year) that you can purchase to add to your vacation entitlement
  • Option to join the indexed, defined-benefit pension plan after 24 consecutive months of service

We wish to thank all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for this position. Only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.