Teacher Assistant- STEP

Teacher Assistant- STEP

Fixed Term (until September 30, 2027), Full-Time | Onsite – Edmonton

We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Support. Reinforce. Empower.

You support adult newcomers as they build confidence in their English communication skills. Through encouragement, patience, and practical classroom support, you help create an inclusive, trauma-informed learning environment where learners feel respected, engaged, and equipped to grow.

About the Role

The Teacher Assistant supports the STEP Language Instructor by providing instructional and classroom assistance to adult newcomers with emerging English proficiency, including Temporary Foreign Workers, International Mobility Program participants, Post-Graduation Work Permit holders, and Refugee Claimants.

This role focuses on reinforcing CLB-aligned learning, supporting lesson delivery, assisting with assessments and classroom organization, and helping learners apply language skills in practical, employment-focused contexts. The Teacher Assistant observes learner engagement and progress, shares insights with the Instructor, and contributes to a welcoming, inclusive classroom environment.

This is an on-site role based at the Newcomer Centre Central, with occasional evening or weekend hours depending on program activities.

About the STEP Program

STEP (Support through Training, Employment, and Pathways) provides targeted employment support for newcomers preparing to enter the Canadian labor market. The program focuses on early employment pathways, job-readiness skill building, and practical supports for participants with varying English levels.

STEP emphasizes inclusive, safe, and fair employment and supports participants in navigating early employment steps with confidence and dignity.

What You'll Do

• Strengthen learner skill and confidence through structured one-to-one and small-group language practice aligned to CLB outcomes and the Instructor's lesson plan.
• Support classroom delivery by preparing materials, reinforcing previously taught content, and facilitating pre-planned activities during brief Instructor absences.
• Contribute to learner progress monitoring by supporting informal checks/quizzes, documenting observations, and sharing learner needs and trends with the Instructor.
• Reduce barriers to learning by supporting the use of digital tools and providing basic technology troubleshooting.
• Help create a welcoming learning environment using trauma-informed, inclusive, and culturally responsive practices, supporting positive classroom culture and escalating concerns appropriately.
• Work as part of a coordinated team by participating in meetings and supporting program events and community-based activities.

What It Takes

• Patience, empathy, and strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to communicate clearly and accessibly in English
• Comfort supporting adult learners with varying English levels
• Strong organization and attention to detail
• Flexibility and willingness to support changing classroom needs
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
• Alignment with inclusive practice and a commitment to a welcoming, affirming environment for LGBTQIA+ and diverse newcomer learners.

What You Bring

Required

• Certificate in Education Assistant, TESL/TEFL, Adult Learning, Human Services, Settlement Studies, or a related field or plus one (1) year of experience in adult learning support/ESL/newcomer programming (or equivalent).

• Strong English proficiency with the ability to communicate clearly and accessibly with adult learners.

• Experience supporting adult ESL and/or newcomer learners in instructional or community-based settings.
• Experience assisting with instruction through tutoring, facilitation, or small-group learning support.
• Ability to reinforce Instructor-led, CLB-aligned learning outcomes through guided practice and Instructor-prepared activities and materials.
• Ability to support informal learning checks (e.g., quizzes, practice tasks) and document observations/results for the Instructor (Instructor remains accountable for assessment decisions).
• Experience applying trauma-informed and inclusive approaches.
• Comfort using classroom technology and digital learning tools (MS 365, Teams/Zoom).
• Strong organization, attention to detail, and reliability, including accurate documentation and confidentiality.
• Ability to work collaboratively with instructors and multidisciplinary program teams.

Preferred / Assets

• Diploma (or additional education) in Education, TESL, Adult Learning, Human Services, or a related field.
• Familiarity with Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) and/or experience supporting CLB-aligned instruction.
• Experience supporting learners with employment-focused language learning (workplace communication, job-readiness contexts).
• Experience in community-based, settlement, or newcomer-serving environments.
• Strong proficiency with MS Office, Teams/Zoom, and digital learning tools.

About the Newcomer Centre

Since 1981, the Newcomer Centre has helped thousands of newcomers build meaningful lives in Edmonton and across Alberta. Our programs support people in learning English, finding work, and connecting with their community. We believe every person deserves the opportunity to belong, contribute, and thrive.

Learn more at

Our Commitment to Equity and Inclusion

We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible workplace where everyone belongs. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and lived experiences, including newcomers, refugees, Indigenous, Black, racialized, 2SLGBTQIA+, and other equity-seeking communities. Skills and experience can be gained in many ways.

If your path looks different from what's listed but aligns with the purpose of this role, we encourage you to apply.