Instructional Assistant, Arboriculture

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.

About the School of Life Sciences

The School of Life Sciences provides dynamic high-tech, hands-on learning opportunities in support of animal health, business and horticulture. The School is also home to the National Meat Training Centre and the Olds College Botanic Gardens. A variety of certificates, diplomas and applied degrees are granted from the School of Life Sciences. Fields of study offered within the School of Life Sciences are: Animal Health, Equine, Horticulture, and the National Meat Training Centre.

The Opportunity - Instructional Assistant, Arboriculture (full-time, temporary)

This position is covered by the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE) Collective Agreement Job Classification: Instructional Assistant

This position is responsible for assisting instructors in the learning environment leading to student success by preparing, distributing, or demonstrating equipment and materials; assisting students; and performing additional tasks as required.

Key Job Functions:

• Assist and support instructors and students in the classroom during hands-on instruction in a variety of courses in the Arboriculture Programs. May also support courses offered in the Horticulture and Turfgrass Management programming group.
• Support the delivery of Instruction by:
  • Ordering, purchasing, inventory update of materials and supplies for assigned classes
  • Co-ordinate and/or carry out the collection, preparation of materials/supplies required for instruction
  • Assist in set up and take down of labs
  • Development of Lab Guides as resources for courses
  • Maintain materials for student study purposes
  • Provide in-class and lab assistance, not involving instruction
  • In consultation with the Associate Dean, the Instructional Assistant may assist in exam and practical lab assessment monitoring where the method and volume may be too large for the instructor alone
• Participate as a member of Instructional Support Teams and other College groups/ teams
• Provide assistance to students in daily course activities and discussions within assigned programs.
• Assist with College events, promotion/recruiting activities as requested
• Meets and communicates frequently with Associate Dean regarding task, project and workload priorities
• Responsible for ensuring email communication is maintained

Education/Experience/Skills/Knowledge Required:

• Relevant post secondary training with a minimum of 3 years experience in the arboriculture and/or horticulture industry.
• Aptitude in chainsaw operation and maintenance as well as tree felling protocols
• Tree care and modern pruning techniques rooted in an understanding of tree biology
• Knowledge and experience with tree climbing and modern climbing systems
• Experience with Tree risk assessment
• Understanding and experience with chipper and stump grinder operation
• Preference given to ISA Certified Arborists
• Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) an asset
• Proven capability for collaborative partnership development and teamwork
• Adept communication and problem-solving abilities
• 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.
• Demonstrated ability to use technology including Google Workspace and the internet.
• A willingness to learn and/or maintain current knowledge of relevant technology is required
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organization and time management skills as well as an eye for detail.
• Must be able to process and compile information with a strong degree of accuracy.
• Presents a positive, professional image and possesses strong interpersonal, customer service and communication skills
• Displays honesty, integrity, and a strong sense of ethics in all decisions and actions

Conditions of Employment:

• A valid Driver's License and Current Criminal Reference check that is free of any offences.
• Actively promote and reinforce practices that prioritize the well-being and security of all individuals at Olds College. Shows a proactive attitude towards safety measures, continuously striving to enhance safety protocols and procedures to ensure the highest standards of protection. Collaborate with colleagues to instil a culture of shared responsibility and accountability when it comes to maintaining a safe and secure work setting.
• This role may be required to work outside regular College operating hours

Please apply by November 9, 2026.

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.