Program Assistant

University of Guelph; Courtice; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Ontario is seeking a Fitness and Recreation Program Assistant to support various fitness and instructional programs. The ideal candidate will have a diploma in Fitness and Health, strong organizational and communication skills, and the ability to work well in a dynamic environment. Flexible hours may be required. The role offers an inclusive workplace culture and contributes to wellness initiatives.

Qualifications

• 6 months to 1.5 years of prior related experience.
• Previous experience working in recreation software is a strong asset.
• Strong communication, listening, problem solving and conflict resolution skills.

Responsibilities

• Input programs into ActiveNet and Fitness and Recreation website.
• Collaborate to resolve facility conflicts and book spaces.
• Manage course modifications and wait list monitoring.

Skills

Organizational skills

Strong computer skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Education

Two-year College Diploma in Fitness and Health or related field

Tools

Recreation software

Microsoft Office Applications

Job description

Overview

Department: Athletics. Position covered by the Collective Agreement with USW Local 4120. If you are a current employee of the University of Guelph you must apply on the internal Career Page in order to be considered as an internal applicant. Career Opportunities (sapsf.com)

General Purpose

The Fitness and Recreation Program Assistant (Program Assistant) is responsible for supporting the fitness, instructional, and recreation program areas. Over 20,000 students and members participate in our fitness and instructional programs, with over 50,000 swipes into our building annually of students and members. These programs contribute to the health and wellness of our students and members, and the incumbent provides excellent customer service and support for these programs.

Responsibilities

• Input all programs accurately and efficiently into ActiveNet, the online registration system (Connect), and the Fitness and Recreation website.
• Assist with programming details for approximately 325 programs and classes, including date, time, duration, minimum/maximum numbers, description, price, location, and start/end dates.
• Collaborate with the Facility Booking Office and programmers to resolve facility conflicts and book space for programs.
• Manage course and class modifications, cancellations, and wait list monitoring throughout the year.
• Maintain the Fitness and Recreation website and Connect (online registration system).
• Tag website with keywords to enhance SEO and ensure page AODA compliance to the highest standard.
• Collaborate with Marketing and Communications to design and execute marketing strategies for programs and memberships, including digital screens, social media, washroom ads, and posters.
• Participate in weekly meetings with Marketing and Communications Office and Manager of Fitness, Recreation, and Client Services.
• Track ongoing marketing projects, gather proofing feedback from programmers, and assist in creating marketing materials if the marketing unit is unable to produce them.
• Run a semesterly satisfaction survey, create the survey, distribute emails, generate marketing to boost participation, and prepare a PowerPoint summary for programmers and the Manager of Fitness, Recreation and Client Services.
• Staff and prepare promotional booths at open houses, events, and fairs on and off-campus.

Requirements

• Two-year College Diploma in Fitness and Health, Business or related field.
• 6 months to 1.5 years of prior related experience.
• Previous experience working in recreation software is a strong asset.
• Previous experience with websites, expertise of SEO and/or AODA is a strong asset.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Student-centered philosophy.
• Works well within a dynamic and demanding environment.
• Strong computer skills including proficiency with Microsoft Office Applications.
• Strong communication, listening, problem solving and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to work independently and effectively to meet established deadlines.
• The successful candidate must value diversity of experiences and perspectives and will play a significant role in supporting and enhancing Athletic and Recreation's Safe Sport, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and community building efforts, actions and initiatives.

Hours, Benefits and Conditions

• Hours of work: Monday to Friday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. Some flexible hours in the evening and weekends may be required to support promotional booths and marketing events.
• Employee Type: Regular.
• Position Number: 10042022.
• Classification: USW, Local 4120.
• Salary: Band 3 USW Local 4120 Wage Grid.

• Note: Tentative evaluation; subject to final review. The University of Guelph fosters inclusion and invites applications from all qualified individuals, including groups traditionally underrepresented in employment, to contribute to diversification of the institution. Posting Date: 09/30/2025. Closing Date: 10/07/2025.