Indigenous Student Community Resource and Engagement Specialist

Indigenous Student Community Resource and Engagement Specialist

Only Indigenous candidates will be considered for this position. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by thedeybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship with documentation is a condition of employment and a requirement to hold this position. The successful candidate must maintain those conditions throughout their employment.

The Office of the Vice Provost, Indigenous Engagement works within and outside the university to meet the unique needs of Indigenous students, staff, faculty, and communities and uplift Indigenization by advancing initiatives and strategies that promote Indigenous Knowledges and support reconciliation and decolonization.

Primary Purpose: The Specialist directly supports incoming and current Indigenous students at USask to assess needs, navigate support systems needed outside the institution, identify goals, be a resource, and an advocate. The position contributes to a holistic team committed to empowering Indigenous youth, increasing self‑efficacy, and improving systems access and navigation to optimize student achievement and well‑being. The position will also develop research‑informed programming and opportunities to engage with students and build relationships.

Nature of Work: As a member of the Office of the Vice Provost, Indigenous Engagement team, the Specialist will report directly to the Senior Strategic Officer. This position is unique at the University of Saskatchewan in that the incumbent will have a professional home within the Office of the Vice Provost, Indigenous Engagement (OVPIE) which includes the Gordon Oakes Red Bear Student Centre. The role is focused on working collaboratively with on‑ and off‑campus partners to reduce barriers throughout the cycle of post‑secondary education.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities:

- Assist students with resource navigation including liaising with on‑campus and community resources.

- Establish and maintain respectful and professional relationships with students, 1:1 check‑ins and follow‑ups.

- Work closely with team members and stakeholders to identify, develop, and implement systems navigation, crisis intervention, streamlined processes, and comprehensive support.

- Act as an advocate on behalf of Indigenous students and maintain a high level of confidentiality standards.

- Develop programming and transition support that will enhance Indigenous student access, success, and quality of learning experiences.

- Assist students in addressing and navigating barriers to entering postgraduate and succeeding.

- Build and maintain relationships with community agencies and maintain knowledge of community resources.

- Provide referrals to appropriate USask and community stakeholders.

- Contribute to the preparation of reports, documents, and communications.

- Other duties as required.

Education: Completion of a post‑secondary degree in Social Work, Education, or other relevant combination of post‑secondary education.

Qualifications: The successful candidate will be a student‑centered individual who has a minimum of three years of related experience and an understanding of Indigenous student experiences, educational successes, and challenges. They will also demonstrate familiarity with social services and community support.

Skills: Must have highly effective interpersonal skills and well‑demonstrated problem‑solving skills. Proven ability to work effectively within a team environment and independently; familiarity with student‑centered programming, support services, and student success. Demonstrated ability to work effectively with a diverse group of individuals while demonstrating tact, diplomacy, and professionalism. Knowledge and experience working with Elders and Knowledge Keepers in a culturally appropriate and respectful manner. Ability to understand the experiences of students and interact effectively in a positive and empowering manner; ability to set priorities and follow through on accountabilities, and to maintain professional relationships and use discretion. Advanced skills in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook are required.

Valid Saskatchewan Class 5 Driver's License.

Willing to acquire training such as ASIST and Mental Health First Aid.

Department: Vice‑Provost Indigenous Engagement

Supervisor Job Title: Senior Strategic Officer

Status: Term 2 years with the possibility of extension or becoming permanent

Employment Group: ASPA

Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0

Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $53,091.00 – 82,954.00 per annum. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

Salary Family (if applicable): Specialist Professional

Salary Phase/Band: Phase 1

Posted Date: 1/16/2026

Closing Date: 1/30/2026

Number of Openings: 1

Work Location: On Campus

The successful applicant will be required to provide the following current verification(s) where 'Yes' is indicated below. Further information is available at: https://careers.usask.ca/tips-for-applying.php

Criminal Record Check: Not Applicable

Driver's License and Abstract Check: Yes

Education/Credential Verification: Not Applicable

Vulnerable Sector Check: Not Applicable

The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity‑deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve: EDI Framework for Action.

Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and the Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation.

The University of Saskatchewan provides an accessible and inclusive workplace. Should you require support through any stage of the recruitment process, please contact Human Resources for assistance.

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