Indigenous Youth and Student Engagement Coordinator

Job Summary

This position assists with planning, implementation, and evaluation of programming to support student recruitment, student management, and student advising within Indigenous Programs and Services (IPS). This position works independently and collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to support events and projects that engage current and prospective Indigenous students. The Indigenous Youth and Student Engagement is also responsible for providing communications support and managing administrative functions within IPS.

Organizational Status

Reports directly to the Indigenous Initiatives Manager. Interacts regularly with student advisors, Work-Study students, and student service personnel across campus. Supervises junior staff and/or student employees (peer advisors, co-op students, work-study students).

Work Performed

Student Recruitment & Outreach:

• Provides information about degree programs and advises on admissions and program requirements.
• Identifies and develops relationships with student sponsors.
• Represents the institution at Indigenous community events, education fairs, and outreach initiatives.
• Assists prospective Indigenous students and their families with admissions processes, financial aid applications, and program selection.
• Supports Indigenous-focused recruitment programs and services.
• Leads Indigenous youth summer programs and supports Indigenous youth outreach programs and services

Student Advising & Support:

• Provides academic, financial, and personal support advising to Indigenous students.
• Connects students with campus resources, including academic advising, financial aid, wellness services, and cultural supports.
• Assists Indigenous students in navigating university processes and policies to promote student retention and success.
• Develops and facilitates workshops and events that support Indigenous student development, including mentorship opportunities, career planning, and cultural programming.

Program Coordination & Administration:

• Plans, organizes, and evaluates Indigenous-focused programs, events, and initiatives on campus.
• Manages the physical and digital resources of Indigenous Programs and Services.
• Coordinates communication efforts, including research, writing, and editing publications related to Indigenous Programs and Services.
• Provides administrative support, including maintaining student records, preparing reports, and managing program budgets.
• Researches and prepares statistical reports on recruitment, retention, and student success metrics.
• Leads special projects and events to support Indigenous students and community engagement.

Consequence of Error/Judgement

Decisions require the application of established methods and procedures. Responsible for completion of tasks. Poor performance in this position would contribute to inefficient operation and low-quality service being provided by Indigenous Programs and Services. This in turn affects the reputation and credibility of the unit thereby affecting the recruitment and retention of students. Not considering the intercultural aspects of communication with and commitment to students can adversely affect the ability to function in a culturally diverse arena.

Administration decisions directly affect the Indigenous Programs and Services Office ability to operate efficiently. Errors in decision making have a serious negative affect on the Office’s ability to carry out its program and service responsibilities.

Supervision Received

This position works under the direct supervision of the Manager Indigenous Initiatives with occasional guidance within clearly defined objectives; results are reviewed.

Supervision Given

This position supervises junior staff and/or student employees (peer advisors, co-op students, work-study students).

Minimum Qualifications
Undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline. Minimum of one to two years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience

- Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own

- Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Indigenous Studies, Education, Social Work, Student Services) or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience working with Indigenous students, communities, or educational programs.
• Strong knowledge of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and contemporary issues affecting Indigenous learners.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills (creative, diplomatic, inter-culturally sensitive, patient, tactful, etc.).
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written).
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including students, faculty, staff, and community partners.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and student information systems.
• A demonstrated commitment to reconciliation, decolonization, and supporting Indigenous student success.
• Ability to work within a team environment.
• Proficient with office software applications (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, databases) and willing to learn new systems.
• Work will include evenings and weekends as required in order to effectively engage with Indigenous students. In addition, some local and overnight travel outside the Thompson/Okanagan area may be required.