Instructional Assistant, Horticulture

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 and, through applied research and integrated learning, we are proud to be Canada’s Smart Agriculture College, specialising in agriculture, agrifood, horticulture, land and environmental stewardship.

The Opportunity – Instructional Assistant, Horticulture (permanent, part‑time 0.80 FTE)
The School of Life Science & Business is seeking a passionate and experienced individual to join our Instructional Assistant team to support our Horticulture diploma programs.

Instructional Assistants work alongside faculty to enhance the learning environment and support student success. Their role blends instructional, technical, and administrative assistance by preparing and distributing equipment and materials, demonstrating skills, guiding students through learning activities, and performing additional tasks as needed.

We Are Looking For

A professional with industry experience in plant science and agronomy, and an understanding of real‑world applications to agriculture and environmental industries.

Natural leadership and mentoring ability, able to explain complex concepts clearly and patiently to students at all skill levels.

A collaborative approach, comfortable working as part of a team and valuing input from colleagues.

A positive influence who instills confidence, encourages curiosity, and inspires lifelong learning among instructional teams and students.

What You Will Be Doing

Provide direct support to instructors in assigned programmes and courses.

Support instruction and course delivery through set‑up preparation, real‑time supervision, and clean‑up after delivery (labs, lectures and/or tutorials), ordering, purchasing, collecting and preparing materials and supplies, and maintaining and recording inventory.

Maintain required records and documentation.

Assist in quiz, test or exam invigilation.

What You Bring To

The Role

Relevant post‑secondary training and a minimum of 3 years’ experience in the horticulture industry.

Experience in production, landscaping or plant and pest sciences – one or more of these areas are required.

Proven capability for collaborative partnership development and teamwork.

Strong dedication to creating an inclusive and optimal learning environment for all students, supporting and valuing diverse perspectives, fostering a welcoming and supportive atmosphere, and striving to create a culture of respect and understanding.

Demonstrated ability to use technology, including Google Workspace.

Strong organisational and time‑management skills, with an eye for detail.

A professional image and strong interpersonal, customer‑service and communication skills.

Honesty, integrity and a strong sense of ethics in all decisions and actions.

Asset

Pesticide Applicator Licence

Dyna Scape software knowledge

Argus System knowledge

Benefits

Defined Benefit Pension Plan (LAPP)

Extended health, dental and prescription drug 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

Collective agreement coverage under the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE)

Olds College is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified persons and encourage applications from women, Indigenous Peoples, racialised persons, persons with disabilities and persons of any sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.

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

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