Program Assistant

Union/Affiliation: C.U.P.E. Local 3338
Pay range: $2,147.43 to $2,431.10 bi-weekly SFU Department Descr: Co-op Education
Position Grade: 8
# of openings: 1
Biweekly Hours: 70

Who We Are

Simon Fraser University is a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future. Our purpose – the essence of SFU – is to create and connect knowledge, learning and community for deeper understanding and meaningful impact. We are committed to fostering excellence, innovation, belonging and community in all that we do.

The SFU Co-operative Education program is dedicated to providing exceptional career development and work-integrated learning opportunities that prepare students for success in an evolving workforce. We partner with students, employers, faculty, and staff to facilitate meaningful co-op experiences while providing comprehensive career services, individualized coaching, and operational support across multiple academic disciplines. Our team contributes to SFU's strategic and academic priorities by fostering experiential learning, strengthening community and industry partnerships, and supporting student success. We value collaboration, innovation, inclusivity, continuous improvement, and service excellence, creating an environment where both students and staff can thrive.

About the Role

This is a dynamic administrative role that supports the day-to-day operations of SFU's Co-operative Education programs. Working closely with the Director, Program Managers, and Manager, Finance & Administration, the Program Assistant plays a central role in coordinating executive support, office operations, systems administration, reporting, student and employer services, and program delivery across the department. The position also contributes to ongoing operational improvements, data reporting, documentation, and cross-functional initiatives that support student success and organizational effectiveness. Ideal for someone who enjoys variety, problem-solving, and working in a collaborative environment, this role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the delivery of experiential learning at SFU while supporting a wide range of stakeholders.

The ideal candidate is highly organized and resourceful, capable of balancing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment with professionalism and creative problem solving. This candidate should excel at building positive relationships, communicating with diverse stakeholders, and providing exceptional customer service. The ideal candidate is comfortable working both independently, and are part of the larger Co-op team, exercising sound judgment, and handling confidential information with discretion. Strong data and analytical skills, attention to detail, and confidence working with administrative systems are essential. Most importantly, this ideal candidate is collaborative, adaptable, and committed to delivering accurate, high-quality support that helps students, employers, and colleagues succeed.

Qualifications

High school graduation and minimum two years in post-secondary or office administration, with courses in office procedures, word processing, spreadsheet, database, and desktop publishing applications, and experience in training other staff. 3 years of experience. An equivalent combination of formal education, certificate/program of study and experience is acceptable.

• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• Strong analytical reasoning and problem-solving skills, including experience analyzing and presenting data for senior leaders and both internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, initiative, and handle confidential information with discretion.
• Intermediate proficiency with administrative systems and software (e.g., Microsoft Office, databases, student information systems, and collaboration tools) and the ability to learn new technologies quickly.

What We Offer

At SFU, our goal is to ensure our people are valued and supported by promoting a healthy work-life balance, professional growth and development, as well as a safe and respectful workplace. We offer continuing employees who belong in the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE Local 3338):

• 3 weeks’ vacation (prorated for the first year)*
• Hybrid-work program for eligible positions
• Employer paid defined benefit pension plan
• On-campus tuition waiver for employees and their immediate family members*
• Funding for professional development expenses*
• And more!

*Prorated for part-time employees

Additional Information

For external candidates, the starting salary is the first step of the salary range.