Serious Incident Response Team (SIRT-NL)

Closing Date: December 24, 2025
Location: Mount Pearl, NL
Employment Type: Term not exceeding five years, with the possibility of reappointment for an additional term not exceeding five years
Salary: Commensurate with education and experience

Context

The Serious Incident Response Team of Newfoundland and Labrador (SIRT-NL) is a civilian-led police oversight agency mandated under the Serious Incident Response Team Act. SIRT-NL investigates incidents involving death, serious injury, sexual offences, domestic violence, or any matter of significant public interest arising from the actions of a police officer in the province. The agency operates independently from government and has authority to lay criminal charges against police officers when warranted.

For more information on the legislative framework governing SIRT-NL, please refer to:

• Serious Incident Response Team Act

• Serious Incident Response Team Regulations

Duties

• Leading and managing all operations of SIRT-NL, including investigators and resources.

• Directing investigations into serious incidents involving police officers and ensuring they meet criminal law standards.

• Administering the team’s budget and ensuring transparency and accountability.

• Engaging with stakeholders, including the public, law enforcement agencies, and government, to maintain confidence in police oversight.

• Performing other duties as assigned under the Serious Incident Response Team Act.

Merit Criteria

Screening Criteria:

1. A university degree in law or other related discipline or equivalent combination of education and experience.

2. Progressive experience in criminal law, policing oversight, or investigative leadership.

3. Must never have served as a police officer.

Assessment Criteria:

1. Knowledge of criminal law and police oversight frameworks.

2. Strong leadership and decision-making skills.

3. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

4. Ability to manage sensitive and high-profile matters with integrity.

5. Ability to manage complex investigations.

6. Relationship-building skills.

7. Experience in public administration or organizational leadership (asset).

Conditions of Employment

1. Recent and satisfactory enhanced security clearance.

2. Willingness to travel and work flexible hours as required.

Conditions of Acceptance

1. Willingness to accept day or night travel (occasional).

Applicant Information

For more information about this opportunity, please contact:

Justin Caines, Assistant Deputy Minister, Legal Services
Phone: 709-729-4865
Email: justincaines@gov.nl.ca

To apply: Please submit your application, including a cover letter and resume, by e-mail to justincaines@gov.nl.ca on or before the closing date.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador values diversity in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer. Disability-related accommodations and alternate formats are available upon request. Preference will be given to applicants legally entitled to work in Canada. Applications must clearly demonstrate the required merit criteria and be received on or before the closing date.

Posted: 12 December 2025