True North
As the largest post-secondary institution in northern Alberta, Northwestern Polytechnic is a natural point of convergence for knowledge, skills, creativity, and collaboration. Striving to spark and empower success, NWP’s mission is geared towards both individual and collective progress. NWP offers a wide variety of engaging and in-demand academic programs in certificates, diplomas, apprenticeships and degrees. We 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 day. While our potential as one of Alberta’s newest polytechnics is ever-growing, we 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 NWP’s 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 experiences. If you are looking to transform the post-secondary landscape with polytechnic education, research, and partnerships, Northwestern Polytechnic is your employer of choice.
