Work Integrated Learning Specialist

True North

As the largestpost-secondary institution in northern Alberta Northwestern Polytechnic is a natural point of convergence for knowledge skills creativity and tospark and empower success NWPsmission is geared towards both individual and collective progress. NWP offersa wide variety of engaging and in-demand academic programs in certificates diplomas apprenticeships and exist wholeheartedly for the domestic and international students who call our campuses home the distinctive communities and industries we serve and the staff and faculty who honour us with their expertise and insights every our potential as one of Albertas newest polytechnics is ever-growingwe recognize the importance of having authentic and highly effective contributors by our side. We are currently recruiting individuals who are inspired by opportunity driven by results and aligned to NWPs core values of being responsive innovative and connected.

The Department

Student Life is a diverse area within NWP and covers departments such as Residence Mental Health Indigenous Services and Recruitment. Each department showcases a student first mentality and is passionate about sharing their knowledge skills and abilities with those around them.

The Role

The Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Specialist bridges the gap between Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) and industry by creating and managing meaningful employment opportunities. You will foster connections between students faculty and employers to ensure students gain career-ready experience while helping organizations meet their talent needs through strategic mentorship and placements.

Driven by student success you will act as a consultant for both students and industry partners. This role involves identifying new employer leads navigating financial subsidies and coaching students on workplace readiness. By aligning academic learning with regional labor demands you play a key role in strengthening the Alberta workforce.

This is a full-time term certain position.

Key Responsibilities

1. Coordinate WIL Activities

• Expansion: Proactively engage new employer partners across various industries to increase the diversity of available placements.
• Guidance: Coach students through the placement process and maintain detailed records of learning outcomes in the Career Management system.
• Promotion: Assist Career Services in raising awareness of WIL benefits among faculty students and the community.

2. Employer Support & Funding

• Financial Aid: Inform and assist employers in applying for government grants wage subsidies and tax credits to support student hiring.
• Consultation: Help employers understand onboarding processes and identify students who align with their organizational culture.
• Retention: Maintain regular communication during placements to address challenges and ensure program quality.

3. Student Employability & Readiness

• Career Coaching: Provide 1-on-1 advisement on resume building interview techniques and job search strategies.
• Advocacy: Implement strategies to increase WIL access for underrepresented student groups.
• Skill Building: Facilitate work experiences that help students build professional networks and practical high-demand skills.

4. Partnership Development

• Networking: Establish long-term relationships with community stakeholders and industry leaders to create a robust opportunity network.
• Strategic Events: Design and deliver customized career workshops and networking events that align with the Work NW Alberta brand.
• Special Projects: Support one-off assignments and strategic marketing initiatives as required to meet departmental goals.

What We Offer

Finding your fit in one of our specialized schools or departments means a bright future with competitive compensation attractive benefits packages reliable networks high quality of life and unparalleled learning community you are looking to transform the post-secondary landscape with polytechnic education research and partnerships Northwestern Polytechnic is your employer of choice.

Necessary skills and attributes to succeed in this role include:

Education & Experience

• Degree/Diploma:A bachelors degree in area related to education human resources social sciences counseling public or business administration management or other related field is preferred. An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Relevant Experience: 1 year of experience in career coaching recruitment business development or educational administration.
• Industry Knowledge: Familiarity with the Alberta labor market and experience navigating government wage subsidies/grants (e.g. SWPP).

Technical & Professional Skills

• Career Coaching: Proven ability to critique resumes conduct mock interviews and guide diverse student populations toward career goals.
• Relationship Management: Strong sales or networking skills to proactively cold call and onboard new industry partners.
• Systems Proficiency: Experience with Career Management Systems (such as Orbis Simplicity or similar CRMs) and the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Event Planning: Ability to design and host workshops or networking events in both virtual and in-person formats.

Core Competencies

• Communication: Exceptional verbal and written skills for advocating the benefits of WIL to skeptical or busy employers.
• Inclusivity: A demonstrated commitment to supporting underrepresented student groups and removing barriers to employment.
• Organization: Ability to manage multiple student placements simultaneously while maintaining precise documentation.
• Travel: A valid drivers license and the ability to travel within the region to visit employer sites.

How to Apply

Only applications received electronically via the Northwestern Polytechnic website will be considered.

We review all applications to select candidates whose qualifications and experience most closely meet our needs.

Only applicants selected for interviews will be contacted. For general inquiries please contact HR at.

Thank you for applying to NWP!