Instructor, Turf Grass

**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.

**The Opportunity - Instructor, Turf Grass (permanent, full-time)**

**Olds College, School of Life Science and Business** is seeking a passionate and experienced industry professional to join our team, we are looking for a **full-time permanent Instructor** for our **Turfgrass and Horticulture programs**. This unique role follows the retirement of a long servicing faculty member and offers a genuine opportunity to make a positive, lasting influence on the next generation of turfgrass and horticulture professionals.

Olds College is a leading destination for students pursuing careers in Golf Course Management and Horticulture, thanks to our outstanding programs and the invaluable contributions of our team members. If you are looking for a way to have a positive impact on the industries our programs serve and are dedicated to providing students with an exceptional, hands-on learning experience, we encourage you to apply.

This is more than just a teaching position; it is a chance to pivot your professional knowledge and experience into a career of impact as**you will be training tomorrow’s industry leaders—future golf course superintendents, sports turf managers, and grounds maintenance professionals—connecting you directly to current industry members and emerging leaders.

It is genuinely rewarding work, offering the unique satisfaction of seeing your expertise translate directly into someone else's career success and having a measurable impact on the industry's future.

**Position Overview**

This role involves working across the full spectrum of turfgrass management, from fundamental plant physiology, irrigation, and advanced cultural practices to leadership and business best practices. You will foster the critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for managing golf courses, sports facilities, and parks.

We are looking for:

- ** Industry Experience That Matters**: Someone who understands the real-world challenges superintendents face at 5 AM when the irrigation system fails or what it takes to maintain fields through a busy sports season.**Natural Leadership/Mentoring Ability**: A professional who genuinely enjoys helping others learn, can explain complex concepts clearly, and has patience for students at all skill levels.**A Collaborative Approach**: Someone who is comfortable being part of a team and values input from colleagues and industry partners.
- ** Positive Influence**: An instructor who instills confidence, encourages curiosity, and inspires life-long learning.

**Key Responsibilities**

**Instructional Responsibilities**:

- Planning and preparation of instructional content for adult learners and potentially high school students in Dual Credit course offerings.- Deliver engaging instruction in various formats, including lectures and hands-on labs, covering a spectrum of skills from technical practices to business management.- Create a learning environment that encourages student involvement and participation.- Effectively utilize instructional technology, including the Moodle Learning Management System and Google Suite.- Work collaboratively with Instructional Assistants to ensure quality, hands-on lab instruction.- Evaluate and report on students' theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical abilities.- Instill confidence, develop problem-solving/critical thinking abilities, and connect classroom learning to real workplace situations.- Be accessible to students outside the classroom, providing ample time for counseling and mentoring 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- Help students build professional networks and relationships, preparing them for the business side of turfgrass management.- Perform various administrative duties and work with other College departments as required (e.g., Accommodations) to facilitate learner success and support program operation and success.
- Maintain strong industry connections, with opportunities to consult part-time or collaborate on research projects.

**Education/Experience/Skills/Knowledge Required**