Program Specialist - Indigenous Programming, UCalgary Continuing Education

University of Calgary; Calgary; On-site; CAD 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Program Specialist to enhance Indigenous programming within its Continuing Education division. This role involves engaging with Indigenous communities, developing culturally relevant educational programs, and fostering partnerships to support resilient learning. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in Indigenous studies or related fields, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to inclusivity. Join a vibrant team at a leading educational institution that values diversity and strives to make a meaningful impact in the community.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field is required.
• Experience with Indigenous programs and communities is essential.

Responsibilities

• Engage with Indigenous communities to identify educational needs.
• Develop and manage programs that respect cultural protocols.
• Monitor program performance and report on key indicators.

Skills

Community Engagement

Program Development

Cultural Competency

Communication Skills

Relationship Building

Attention to Detail

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Political Science

Bachelor's Degree in Indigenous Studies

Bachelor's Degree in Education

Bachelor's Degree in Social Work

Job description

Description

Adult Education, Lifestyles, and Language within UCalgary Continuing Education is currently seeking a Full-time Temporary Relief Program Specialist - Indigenous Programming for approximately 11 months.

The Program Specialist position reports to the Director of Domestic Programs and works closely with Programming teams, Marketing Communications, Academic Innovation, and Operations teams, as well as faculties and departments of the University of Calgary in a cross-functional and collaborative environment.

The goal is to develop and manage continuing education courses and programs that meet the needs of Indigenous communities and promote resilient learners. This may include initiating collaborative agreements with UCalgary faculties/units, external partners, and/or accrediting professional associations. This position is located at the Downtown Campus and typically operates on a 35-hour work week.

Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):

1. Community Engagement and Identification of Programming Opportunities

• Learn about the principles, recommendations, and overall intent of the University Indigenous Strategy: ii' taa'poh'to'p.
• Coordinate and attend meetings with the Indigenous Strategy working circles, Indigenous communities, and other internal and external stakeholders to identify continuing education needs.
• Identify funding sources and support the development of funding proposals to support Indigenous programs.
• Build and maintain strong, respectful relationships with internal teams, Indigenous communities, and other stakeholders.

1. Program Development

• Collaborate with internal colleagues, Indigenous communities, and other stakeholders to ensure programming offered is relevant to Indigenous communities and/or Indigenous learners.
• Assist with designing and delivering programming that is respectful of cultural protocols and promotes the engagement of Elders and Traditional Knowledge Keepers.
• Assist with developing programming proposals and associated forecasts and budgets to meet operating targets.
• Learn and follow academic governance structures by creating and stewarding Academic Planning and Priorities Committee proposals for new programs and courses approvals.

1. Program Management

• Assist with developing and preparing program plans and budgets that provide quality educational experiences.
• Oversee the execution of assigned programs with support from the Continuing Education operations team, including working closely with a Program Support Coordinator.
• Monitor and report on key performance and assessment indicators during and after program implementation.

Qualifications / Requirements:

• Minimum of a completed Bachelor's Degree in Political Science, Indigenous Studies, Education, Social Work, or a related field.
• Knowledge and understanding of the educational and training needs of Indigenous people and communities.
• Work experience within Indigenous programs, communities, or organizations.
• Familiarity and cultural competency in working with Indigenous communities and people.
• Knowledge of regional Indigenous cultural protocols and cultural event planning.
• Demonstrated ability to build positive relationships within and alongside Indigenous people and communities.
• A commitment to the development and advancement of Indigenous inclusion.
• Positive attitude and ability to collaborate effectively as a team member.
• Ability to perform multiple complex tasks with attention to detail and business processes; working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills along with a strong customer service orientation.

Application Deadline: May 5, 2025

We thank all applicants in advance for submitting their resumes. Please note, only those candidates selected for the next stage will be contacted.

This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, falling under the Specialist/Advisor Job Family, Phase 1.

For a listing of all management and staff opportunities at the University of Calgary, visit our Management and Staff Careers website.

About the University of Calgary

UCalgary is Canada's entrepreneurial university, located in Canada's most enterprising city. It is a top research university and one of the highest-ranked universities of its age. Founded in 1966, it has 36,000 students experiencing an innovative learning environment enriched by research, hands-on experiences, and entrepreneurial thinking. It is Canada's leader in the creation of start-ups. Start something today at the University of Calgary. For more information, visit ucalgary.ca.

The University of Calgary has launched an institution-wide Indigenous Strategy committed to creating a rich, vibrant, and culturally competent campus that welcomes and supports Indigenous Peoples, encourages Indigenous community partnerships, and includes Indigenous perspectives in all activities.

As an equitable and inclusive employer, the University of Calgary recognizes that a diverse staff/faculty benefits and enriches the work, learning, and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers that have been historically encountered by some groups. We strive to recruit individuals who will further enhance our diversity and support their success. We especially encourage applications from women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, racialized minorities, and diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. We also offer accommodations during the recruitment process for applicants with disabilities. For questions regarding diversity and equity, contact the Office of Institutional Commitments at [e-mail], and for accommodations, contact Human Resources at [e-mail].

We encourage all qualified applicants to apply. Preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.