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 Science & Business

The School of Life Science & Business 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 Science & Business. Fields of study offered within the School of Life Science & Business are: Animal Health, Business, Equine, Horticulture, and the National Meat Training Centre.

The Opportunity - Instructor, Turf Grass & Horticulture Programs (permanent, full-time)

Olds College, School of Life Science and Business is recruiting for a Full-Time Permanent Instructor for the Turf Grass and Horticulture programs. This position requires on-site availability at the Olds College main campus.

An Instructor teaches in discipline areas in which he/she has specific training and competence. Instructors are responsible for the planning, preparation, and delivery of instruction and evaluation of learners. This position includes administrative duties and working with other College departments, as required. You will work with other passionate horticulture professionals in creating an exceptional learning experience for students. Our team members are our greatest asset and coupled with exceptional programming, Olds College has become a destination for students seeking careers focused on the care of living plantlife.

A list of courses within this program can be found on the Olds College website.

The successful candidate will have primary responsibility in turf grass management instruction in the Turf Grass Management diploma and Applied Bachelors of Science degree along with relevant horticultural experience for instruction in the Horticulture Diploma. As part of the teaching portfolio, it is imperative that candidates have a broad understanding of horticulture and practical turf grass management experience. The ability to communicate and work within a team environment is critical to this role with the goal of student success The ability to communicate well and work within a team environment is critical to this role and the goal of student success.

Key Job Functions:

• Plan and prepare for instruction to both adult learners and potentially High School learners participating in Dual Credit course offerings
• Instruct course through delivery in various formats (lecture / hands on lab) - The use of a learning management system, such as Moodle, along with instructional technology is essential
• Evaluate and report on students’ theoretical knowledge and hands-on ability
• Working with other instructional staff (Instructional Assistants) to deliver quality, hands-on instruction in labs
• Create a learning environment that encourages student involvement and participation
• Work with other College departments to facilitate learner success (for example, accommodations)
• Be accessible to students outside the classroom, providing ample periods of time for counseling and mentoring students in matters related to academic success
• Perform various tasks to support student success:
  • First point of contact for student concerns
  • Monitor student performance and behaviour
  • Submit grades, feedback and forms as required
  • Maintain confidentiality and security of student information
• Learn and use technology to enhance teaching and the educational experience when appropriate
• Perform other activities related to instructional assignment

Education/Experience/Skills/Knowledge Required:

• Qualified applicants must have a relevant degree in a related field, a masters degree is preferred
• Minimum 5 years of applicable industry experience - a combination of education and experience will be considered
• Knowledge, skills, and/or training in instruction/teaching setting an asset
• Organizational skills with the ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks at once.
• Dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse learning environment that embraces individuals from all backgrounds and perspectives
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion in their teaching, research, and interactions with students, colleagues, and the wider community, including having deep understanding of the value of diverse perspectives in enriching academic discourse and fostering a sense of belonging for all members of the campus community
• Ability to meet deadlines, work independently and collaboratively with a team, resolve problems and make decisions in accordance with College policies and procedures
• Knowledge and skills in current technology applications relevant to the program and subject matter content
• Excellent communication skills (both written and oral)
• Actively promote and reinforce practices that prioritize the well-being and security of all individuals at Olds College, show 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 instill a culture of shared responsibility and accountability when it comes to maintaining a safe and secure work setting

Conditions of Employment:

• Current Criminal Reference check that is free of any offenses.
• Must respect and actively promote Olds College policies.

The statements contained in this job description reflect general details as necessary to describe the key job functions of this position, the level of knowledge and skill typically required and the scope of responsibility. It is not an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Other duties may be assigned.

Olds College offers a competitive benefit plan:

• Defined Benefit Pension Plan (LAPP)
• Extended Health, Dental, and Prescription Drugs benefits
• Health/Personal Spending Account
• Generous Vacation Leave
• Paid Holiday Closure
• ‘Olds College in the Community’ volunteer leave
• Professional development and opportunities for growth, including employee and family tuition waivers

Open until suitable candidates selected.

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.