Instructor, Turf Grass

Olds College; Olds; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Canada is seeking a full-time Instructor for Turfgrass and Horticulture programs. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 5 years of industry experience, excellent communication skills, and a passion for mentoring students. This role offers a chance to make a positive impact on the future of golf course management. Benefits include a competitive plan and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Defined Benefit Pension Plan

Health, Dental, and Prescription Drugs benefits

Generous Vacation Leave

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of applicable industry experience as a golf course superintendent.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and listening skills.
• Ability to travel within Alberta for hands-on learning activities.

Responsibilities

• Planning and preparing instructional content for adult learners.
• Deliver engaging instruction including hands-on labs.
• Evaluate and report on students' theoretical knowledge and hands-on abilities.

Skills

Industry Experience

Natural Leadership

Collaborative Approach

Positive Influence

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in a related field

Job description

Overview

About Olds College of Agriculture & Technology

Founded in 1913, Olds College of Agriculture & Technology has been offering high quality hands-on education for over a century. Through our core programming including continuing education, online and blended programming, we provide accessible educational opportunities within Alberta and beyond. We are passionate about the Agriculture industry. Through our applied research and integrated learning, we are proud to be Canada’s Smart Agriculture College, specializing in agriculture, agrifood, horticulture, land and environmental stewardship. We work closely with industry to advance and adapt our programming to ensure our graduates have the skills to succeed.

The Opportunity - Instructor, Turf Grass (permanent, full-time)

Olds College, School of Life Science and Business is seeking a passionate and experienced industry professional to join our team. We are looking for a full-time permanent Instructor for our Turfgrass and Horticulture programs. This role follows the retirement of a long-serving faculty member and offers a genuine opportunity to make a positive, lasting influence on the next generation of turfgrass and horticulture professionals.

Olds College is a leading destination for students pursuing careers in Golf Course Management and Horticulture, thanks to our outstanding programs and the invaluable contributions of our team members. If you are looking for a way to have a positive impact on the industries our programs serve and are dedicated to providing students with an exceptional, hands-on learning experience, we encourage you to apply.

This is more than just a teaching position; it is a chance to pivot your professional knowledge and experience into a career of impact as you will be training tomorrow’s industry leaders—future golf course superintendents, sports turf managers, and grounds maintenance professionals—connecting you directly to current industry members and emerging leaders.

It is genuinely rewarding work, offering the unique satisfaction of seeing your expertise translate directly into someone else’s career success and having a measurable impact on the industry's future.

Position Overview

This role involves working across the full spectrum of turfgrass management, from fundamental plant physiology, irrigation, and advanced cultural practices to leadership and business best practices. You will foster the critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for managing golf courses, sports facilities, and parks.

We are looking for

• Industry Experience That Matters: Someone who understands the real-world challenges superintendents face at 5 AM when the irrigation system fails or what it takes to maintain fields through a busy sports season.
• Natural Leadership / Mentoring Ability: A professional who genuinely enjoys helping others learn, can explain complex concepts clearly, and has patience for students at all skill levels.
• A Collaborative Approach: Someone who is comfortable being part of a team and values input from colleagues and industry partners.
• Positive Influence: An instructor who instills confidence, encourages curiosity, and inspires life-long learning.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will have primary instructional responsibilities in the Turfgrass Management diploma and Applied Bachelors of Science degree, with teaching assignments based on your areas of strength and interest, which could include experience transferable to instruction in our Horticulture programs. A list of courses within these programs can be found on the Olds College website.

• Instructional Responsibilities:
  • Planning and preparation of instructional content for adult learners and potentially high school students in Dual Credit course offerings.
  • Deliver engaging instruction in various formats, including lectures and hands-on labs, covering a spectrum of skills from technical practices to business management.
  • Create a learning environment that encourages student involvement and participation.
  • Effectively utilize instructional technology, including the Moodle Learning Management System and Google Suite.
  • Work collaboratively with Instructional Assistants to ensure quality, hands-on lab instruction.
  • Evaluate and report on students' theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical abilities.
  • Instill confidence, develop problem-solving / critical thinking abilities, and connect classroom learning to real workplace situations.
  • Be accessible to students outside the classroom, providing ample time for counseling and mentoring related to academic success.
  • Perform various tasks to support student success:
    First point of contact for student concerns; Monitor student performance and behaviour; Submit grades, feedback and forms as required; Maintain confidentiality and security of student information; Help students build professional networks and relationships, preparing them for the business side of turfgrass management.
  • Perform various administrative duties and work with other College departments as required (e.g., Accommodations) to facilitate learner success and support program operation and success.
  • Maintain strong industry connections, with opportunities to consult part-time or collaborate on research projects.

Education / Experience / Skills / Knowledge Required

The ideal candidate will possess a comprehensive understanding of applied science in golf course management and its practical use in the field, ensuring you can support the development of technical skills and problem-solving approaches.

• Qualified applicants will have experience as a golf course superintendent, and minimum 5 years of applicable industry experience.
• A combination of education and experience will be considered; Bachelors or Masters degree in a related field preferred.
• Extensive, practical experience in golf course management, understanding current industry practices and challenges. Relevant or related horticultural experience would be considered an asset.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and listening skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Demonstrate a strong dedication to promoting inclusivity and diversity. This includes actively seeking out and valuing diverse perspectives, fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals of all backgrounds, and continuously striving to create a culture of respect and understanding.
• Ability to travel within central Alberta to support various hands-on learning activities in a lab environment may be required.
• Previous instructional experience would be a definite asset.

Benefits

• Olds College offers a competitive benefit plan :
• Defined Benefit Pension Plan (LAPP)
• Extended Health, Dental, and Prescription Drugs benefits
• Health / Personal Spending Account
• Generous Vacation Leave
• Paid Holiday Closure
• Olds College in the Community volunteer leave
• Professional development and opportunities for growth, including employee and family tuition waivers

Please apply by October 10, 2025

We thank all individuals for their interest in this position. We appreciate the time involved for candidates in the application process. At this time, please note only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

Olds College is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage applications from women, Indigenous Peoples, racialized persons, persons with disabilities and persons of any sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.

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