Employment Specialist

Founded in 1910 and located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Mount Royal University grew into a vibrant college in the 1930s and became a mid-sized university in 2009. Mount Royal has carved out a distinct niche by offering smaller class sizes, a robust liberal education and unique undergraduate programs. Currently, more than 15,000 credit students choose from 13 bachelor degrees and 36 majors.

Mount Royal University is located in the traditional territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) and the people of the Treaty 7 region in southern Alberta, which includes the Siksika, the Piikani, the Kainai, the Tsuut'ina and the Iyarhe Nakoda. We are situated on land where the Bow River meets the Elbow River. The traditional Blackfoot name of this place is "Mohkinstsis," which we now call the city of Calgary. The city of Calgary is also home to the Métis Nation.

Mount Royal University is committed to removing barriers and fostering the inclusion of voices that have been historically underrepresented or discouraged in our society. In support of our belief that diversity in our faculty and staff enriches the work, learning and research experiences for the entire campus community, we strongly encourage members of the designated groups (women, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities, and diverse sexual orientation and gender identities) to apply and self-identify.

Mount Royal University’s Transitional Vocational Program provides a variety of unique post-secondary programs that foster personal, professional, and academic growth for adults with developmental disabilities. The Employment Preparation Certificate program was established in 1980 and has, with continuous development, evaluation and change, supported students to find and maintain competitive employment. Through excellence, innovation and leadership the full-time Employment Preparation Certificate program has become highly regarded and socially valued. Entrance into this program can be very competitive. 

Reporting to the Program Administrator, the Employment Specialist provides job training and support services to a caseload of adults with developmental disabilities.  The incumbent also conducts workshops, employment counselling, participates in assessment procedures, assists the placement coordinator in acquiring practicum placements and employment opportunities and liaises with employers regarding training needs and job development.

• Provide community-based job training, regular follow-up and support services
• Provide employment counselling/crisis management to students as required
• Resolve employment related problems that impact job training, employment success and daily living
• Administer a wide variety of assessment tools, utilizing analytical skills and writing assessment reports
• Facilitate small group tutorials and workshops
• Support the Placement Coordinator with job development 
• Assist students in job search activities and job retention
• Monitor and document student progress

• Two-year Diploma/Degree in Rehabilitation or Education or equivalent
• Minimum of 6 - 12 months of experience working with adults with developmental disabilities, ideally in vocational areas
• Expertise in on-the-job training techniques
• Strong organizational/time management skills to effectively manage a caseload
• Outstanding communication skills to work effectively with students, employers, and supports
• Knowledge of labour market and high degree of professionalism
• Team player, who is also able to work autonomously
• Job placement skills would be an asset
• Flexibility to work evenings and/or weekends as needed
• A valid driver’s license with exclusive use of vehicle with business insurance is required
• A criminal record check and vulnerable sector verification will be required within one month of being hired

Talented and committed employees are the driving force behind student success. We strive to be an employer of choice among Canadian post-secondary institutions. 

At Mount Royal University, we recognize that people are a combination of many intersecting identities; we work to cultivate an environment that welcomes the whole person, and harnesses the strength that is available in our diversity, creating a rich and inclusive workplace.

Investing in the learning and development of our employees benefits the individual and the University. A variety of services, resources and programs encourage a healthy, productive workplace. Mount Royal University offers a competitive total compensation package including health and dental benefits, pension, health and personal spending accounts, paid vacation, winter holiday closure, personal days and a free membership in our fully equipped recreation centre.

Our campus offers the convenience of a medical clinic, dentist and pharmacy, as well as a variety of wellness services such as physiotherapists and massage therapists. Campus Recreation offers many activities, including personal training, climbing, aquatics, sports and certifications for students, employees and the public.

Salary:                                $51,754 - $65,500 per annum 

Closing Date:                     May 24, 2024

A cover letter and resume should be submitted in one .pdf document. Please title your .pdf document as follows: [Last Name], [Requisition Number], [Document Title].pdf (ex. Smith, 999999, CV.pdf).

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens, permanent residents and others currently eligible to work in Canada will be given priority. Recent Mount Royal graduates who are foreign nationals may be eligible to work on campus.  Please refer to the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website under Post-Graduation Employment at http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/index.asp .