International Student Navigator

Do you have a passion for international student success and being part of a team that makes a difference? We welcome you to join our team as the full-time International Student Navigator.

The International Student Navigator serves as the primary advisor and advocate for Red Deer Polytechnic international students and provides specialized advice and support through their lifecycle from newly admitted student to recent graduate. As a Regulated International Student Immigration Advisor ( RISIA ), the incumbent guides international students on matters related to study and work permit requirements, to ensure students makes appropriate immigration related decisions.

The International Student Navigator reports to the Dean of International Education and works from The Gathering Place but will also work closely with other student-support focused divisions/departments such as the Student Connect Centre, Library and Student Supports, and the Office of the Registrar to promote a seamless student experience.

This role will act as an advisor for international students while navigating supports available to them at RDP and will provide specialized guidance to ensure that international students have the tools to successfully adjust to the Canadian post-secondary environment, integrate into the community, and thrive academically and personally. The International Student Navigator will identify and analyze the needs of international students to design relevant programs, tools, and services that support international student success, retention, and integration.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Provide guidance and support to international students, in a professional manner, on areas such as cultural adjustment, integration into the Polytechnic and local community, language assistance, general program information, dealing with crisis situations, and medical insurance.
• Anticipate international student needs, proactively respond to student requests, provide recommendations extending beyond a student’s initial request, navigate students towards appropriate student supports/services and provide guidance on how to access these supports/services, identify opportunities to enhance students’ problem solving and self-direction abilities.
• Coordinate communications with all current international students, including communicating with students prior to departure from country of origin.
• Advocate on the behalf of international students, when necessary, and ensure international students are aware of their rights and responsibilities as an RDP student and as a member of the broader community.
• Act as the key institutional contact for providing immigration advice in the area of Study Permits, Temporary Resident Visas, and how Study Permits relate to other Canadian immigration programs (i.e.: post-graduate permits).
• Develop and maintain essential immigration information for international students and ensure accurate and up-to-date immigration information for the website and student communications.
• Refer any student needing representation or immigration forms to be filled out to a RCIC or other Authorized Representative and ensure follow-up with immigration authorities.
• Develop, coordinate, promote, and implement workshops, events, and programs to support international students’ transition to the Canadian post-secondary environment, to support their academic success, cultural adjustment, and promote a sense of belonging.

• Four (4) year undergraduate degree, or three (3) year undergraduate degree plus one full additional year of University in a related program representing four years of study or equivalent in any program area.
• Regulated International Student Immigration…