Instructional Assistant, Equine Programs

**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 Sciences & 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 - Instructional Assistant, Equine Programs - temporary, full-time**

These programs include Equine Care and Management, Equine Massage and Equine Reproduction. Programs run September through June and the position would commence October 2025 and end July 2026.

**Key Job Functions**:

- Assist and support instructors and students in the classroom along with hands-on instructional support in a variety of courses in the Olds College Equine programming.
- Support the delivery of Instruction by:

- Assist in set up and take down of lab activities
- Organize and maintain the models, equipment and horses used by multiple courses
- Co-ordinate and/or carry out the collection, preparation of materials/supplies required for instruction
- Order, purchase, and keep inventory of materials and supplies for assigned classes
- Develop Lab Guides as resources for courses
- Maintain materials for student study purposes
- In consultation with the Associate Dean, the Instructional Assistant may assist in exam and practical lab assessment monitoring where the method and volume may be too large for the instructor alone
- Play a key role in ensuring the safety of students in a variety of situations
- Provide assistance to students in daily course activities and discussions within assigned programs
- Assist with College events, promotion/recruiting activities as requested
- Meet and communicate frequently with Associate Dean regarding task, project and workload priorities
- Participate as a member of Instructional Support Teams and other College groups/teams
- Availability outside of regular working hours and on weekends may be required

**Education/Experience/Skills/Knowledge**
- A minimum of three (3) years of directly related experience in Equine Massage Therapy or Bodywork Industry or other relevant Equine industry experience
- Experience with horse care and handling
- An RVT designation or other post secondary education is considered an asset
- Strong interpersonal, time management skills, and organizational abilities are vital
- Solid computer skills are required, (Familiarity with Google Suite, and the willingness to learn specialized programs are an asset)
- Proven capability for collaborative partnership development and teamwork
- Adept communication and problem-solving abilities
- Must be able to process and compile information with a strong degree of accuracy.
- Presents a positive, professional image and possesses strong interpersonal, customer service and communication skills
- Display honesty, integrity, and a strong sense of ethics in all decisions and actions

**Conditions of Employment**
- A valid Driver's License and Current Criminal Reference check that is free of any offences.
- 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 instil a culture of shared responsibility and accountability when it comes to maintaining a safe and secure work setting.
- ** This role may be required to work outside regular College operating hours**

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.