Program Specialist

In order to ensure your application is received by NAIT for thorough review and consideration, please apply directly through our Careers site at www.nait.ca/careers

Please Note: This is a temporary position ending on or before September 30, 2026, with the possibility of extension.

Do you have a passion for enabling students to fulfil their academic and career goals? We are looking for a Program Specialist to provide individualized academic progression guidance and coaching supports to our students in the JR Shaw School of Business (JRSSB). Program Specialists focus on holistically supporting and empowering students as they work towards achieving their educational goals.

At NAIT, we employ a Learning Outcomes approach when providing guidance as a means to engage and empower students as they progress through the student lifecycle. Our Program Specialists support students in understanding how their plans and actions affect their academic and life aspirations. They are dedicated and motivated helping professionals with a high level of intercultural competence and are comfortable working with students from diverse backgrounds. The Program Specialist’s focus is to support the progression and retention of our current students, yet in some circumstances may also extend to providing professional program specific advising to prospective students and alumni.

Program Specialists engage in considerable contact with students through one-on-one sessions, group settings, or workshops and are expected to apply comprehensive knowledge about JRSSB’s academic programs and pathways, internal and external agencies and associations, policies, procedures, student supports and financial services within the scope of their responsibilities. Program Specialists must be able to independently and thoroughly interpret student needs to provide individualized, student-centered service, as well as create and facilitate outcomes-based group workshops. Program Specialists are well-versed in (a) all JRSSB programs/pathways and (b) how to access/refer to typical holistic student supports/services and provide the necessary contextually appropriate support/guidance/coaching to all JRSSB students through the various stages of the student lifecycle. Program Specialists will actively contribute to the continuing development of their area of focus and will work collaboratively and collegially with their colleagues and other program and service areas across NAIT.

We are actively strengthening our student facing functions in JRSSB; Program Specialists must also be comfortable with change, and within the scope of their role, bring forward suggestions for improvements to student facing processes, student experiences, and business processes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide individualized context appropriate program specific guidance/coaching to students (prospective, current, and returning) to support their academic progression
• Provide transactional supports, case management of at-risk students, and/or appropriate referrals
• Assist students in navigating electronic and other resources
• Actively contribute to the enhancement of JRSSB’s student-facing services and business processes
• Reporting activities
• Facilitate outcome-based information sessions and/or workshops
• Collaborate with programs and services at NAIT to facilitate positive student experiences
• Maintain student records

Skills & Abilities:

• Student-Centered Advising Knowledge: Strong understanding of the theoretical framework of student-centered developmental advising.
• Professional Communication: Ability to handle inquiries from students, staff, external agencies, and the public with respect, confidence, and tact.
• Interpersonal Skills: Effective listening, emotional intelligence, and the ability to build rapport across diverse groups.
• Problem Solving & Conflict Resolution: Skilled in navigating complex situations with sound judgment and diplomacy.
• Organizational Skills: Ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and maintain structure in a dynamic environment.
• Team Collaboration: Proven ability to work as a team member and foster collaborative working relationships.
• Adaptability: Comfortable embracing change and navigating evolving processes and environments.
• Technical Proficiency: Ability to learn and use relevant software and systems to support service delivery.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in a related field
• 3 years of related experience
• Experience with advising on programs offered in the JR Shaw School of Business will be considered an asset

Applicants with education credentials earned outside of Canada should have their credentials evaluated by World Education Services or the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS).

Remuneration: $57,314.92 - $76,022.18 annually, plus a comprehensive benefits package. (Classification – Student Advisor II)

This position is covered by the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE) Collective Agreement

Please submit a resume and cover letter to be considered for this opportunity.

About NAIT

We are proud to have been named one of Alberta’s Top Employers for 14 consecutive years. Being part of a community that makes a difference in the lives of students, staff, industry clients and partners, NAIT’s culture reflects our shared values of respect, collaboration, celebration, creativity, and accountability.

People are what make NAIT great, and we prioritize the employee experience. We offer benefits and unique perks focusing on health and wellness, work-life balance, recognition, and professional and personal growth. In addition to excellent vacation time, we offer paid time off between Christmas and New Year's.

NAIT supports a flexible work environment, enabling staff to request approval for on-campus, off-site, or hybrid work arrangements based on the nature of the role. Please note that remote positions require employees to reside within Canada.

NAIT is committed to fostering an environment that supports equity and cultivates inclusion through our Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy. We are a proud partner of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion and Pride at Work Canada. While we encourage all qualified applicants to apply, only those being considered will be contacted. If you require any accommodations, please connect with us at [email protected].

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