Program Assistant, Natural Resources Extension Program (2973)

The Natural Resources Extension Program (NREP) is one of Canada's leading providers of applied, community-based natural resources professional development training. Since 1989, the NREP has developed and delivered fisheries, environmental, and wildlife training to over 17,000 industry stakeholders in communities throughout North America. Under the general supervision of the Dean of Science and Technology, provide technical assistance and administrative support to the Natural Resources Extension Program (NREP staff, contractors, industry stakeholders, client groups, and students).

Employment Group

CUPE

Position Number

00723

Division

Faculty of Science and Technology

Department

Natural Resources Extension Program

Campus

Nanaimo campus *Successful candidates must be able to attend in person on campus as required.

Location

Nanaimo, British Columbia

Country

Canada

Appointment Type

regular part-time

FTE

0.50

Workload

17.5 hours per week

Pay Level

CUPE 3: $25.55 per hour

Appointment Start Date

03-Aug-2026

Applicant Documents

CV/Resume, Cover Letter, Qualifications , Name and contact information of recent supervisors willing to provide a reference

Posted Date

04-Jun-2026

Closing Date

08-Jul-2026

Job Reference

2973

Documents

• CUPE Self-Declaration Form
  (Word, 40.35kb)

Duties:

Responsible for administrative support duties including:

• Filing and organizing, sending class lists to instructional staff; entering final grades for NREP courses on behalf of instructional staff.
• Entering course details into a database.
• Working with registration department and students on registration related tasks as well as providing course information.
• Updating departmental listserv's, website management systems as well as other communication platforms including Email, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, X and other Social media accounts.
• Assisting with the submission of the program's animal care requirements, fisheries permitting and reporting duties (e.g., help prepare and submit pertinent documents).
• Editing, collating and assisting with the design of course materials including both electronic (VIU Learn) programs and paper-based materials, and ensure such manuals and materials are in place for respective course deliveries.
• Designing, formatting, and preparing of departmental brochures, posters, information materials, forms, and advertising.
• Coordinating course-related logistics; transport/shipping of course materials, advise staff and contractors of shipping and pickup locations. Arranging room and catering bookings (primarily off-campus), and supporting travel arrangements.
• Preparing purchase requisitions, sales orders, process instructor expense claims, and other University online forms; assist with monthly P-card statements; order office supplies; and make on-campus deliveries
• Representing VIU and NREP at conferences, workshops, and industry-related events.

Required Qualifications:

One-year office administration certificate or equivalent from an appropriately accredited institution. Minimum one year related experience.

• MS Office proficiency.
• Demonstrated organizational, interpersonal, and written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to meet deadlines, establish priorities and maintain flexibility with competing demands.
• Demonstrated strong service orientation and cultural sensitivity.
• Proven experience as a team-player who can work proactively, and with a bare minimum of supervision and be flexible to work independently with accountability.
• Must possess a valid Class 5 BC Driver's License and have a confirmed satisfactory driving record.
• Valid OFA Level 1 Certificate required (or obtain as per CUPE Article 23.03 c).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Two-year Natural Resource or environmentally-related diploma from an appropriately accredited institution.
• Minimum five years related experience.
• Marketing certificate or experience.
• Familiarity with Vancouver Island University systems (e.g., Student Records System, SAWS, Unit4, VIULearn).
• Demonstrated experience working in a cost-recovery environment.
• Knowledge of the Natural resource industry in B.C.
• Understanding and experience working with regional Indigenous communities located on Vancouver Island and awareness of local cultural protocol.

VIU is pleased to offer eligible employees a comprehensive benefit plan; ample paid holiday time; professional development opportunities and a desirable pension plan. As part of the VIU campus community, our employees work with supportive colleagues within an encouraging environment and are provided with the tools and training that promote learning and development. The perks of VIU employment are multiple, and include well-being initiatives and services, strategic discounts, and flexible work opportunities.

Note: 

• Short-listed candidates must provide original transcripts, or applicable original certifications at time of interview.
• All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.
• Vancouver Island University (VIU) is collectively committed to building and sustaining a diverse and inclusive working and learning environment for faculty, staff, and students.  In our journey towards greater diversity, we invite applications from members of equity-seeking communities including women, racialized and Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of all gender identities and sexual orientations who bring value to the VIU community through their lived experiences.  We encourage members of all equity-seeking groups to self-identify within their application cover letter.  When a candidate voluntarily discloses this information in their cover letter, the information will be used only for the fulfillment of the career opportunity.  Disclosure and/or self-identification with an equity-seeking group will not lead to advantageous treatment of a candidate who is not qualified.

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