Indigenous Community Engagement and Recruitment Coordinator -(Grande Prairie) (University of Alberta)

Application Instructions

All applicants are directed to follow the application process as outlined by the University of Alberta website and competition process - Indigenous Community Engagement and Recruitment Coordinator - Grande Prairie . Do not apply via the Northwestern Polytechnic's career page, your application will not be reviewed.  Please confirm all appointment details with the University of Alberta directly, as information on the NWP posting may not be in alignment with the Association and terms and conditions of employment within the University of Alberta.

This position has an end date of June 30, 2027, with the possibility of renewal, and offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Location - This role is hybrid with a mix of remote and in-person work at Northwestern Polytechnic in Grande Prairie, Alberta.

This role resides on Treaty 8 territory, the traditional gathering place and meeting ground for the Cree, Dene, Métis, and other Indigenous peoples.

Working at the University of Alberta

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all First Peoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people — from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

Working for the Wâpanachakos Indigenous Health Program

The Wâpanachakos Indigenous Health Program was founded in 1988 by the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry (FoMD) at the University of Alberta to encourage a greater number of First Nations, Inuit, and Metis students gain access to, and graduate from, all Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry programs. Since the Program’s inception, the Wâpanachakos Indigenous Health Program (WIHP) has been a leader in the recruitment and retention of Indigenous students, representing Abenaki, Blackfoot, Cree, Dene, Delaware, Inuit, Iroquois, Metis, Mi’kmaq, Mohawk, the Ojibwe communities in Health Sciences in Canada.

In order to increase the number of physicians trained in Alberta, particularly in the rural areas, the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry (FoMD), University of Alberta is partnering with Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP), based in Grande Prairie to develop the Northern Alberta Medical Program, which is a regional distributed campus for the U of A Medical School. The Northern Alberta Medical Program (NAMP), offers learners the opportunity to gain hands-on clinical experience across diverse northern Alberta communities, emphasizing rural and regional healthcare.

Position Summary

The University of Alberta's Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, in partnership with Northwestern Polytechnic, is seeking a Community Engagement and Recruitment Coordinator – Grande Prairie (CERC) to lead initiatives that increase the number of First Nations, Inuit, and Metis medical students in the Northern Alberta Medical Program (NAMP) in Grande Prairie. This is a regionally focused role where the successful candidate will be instrumental in building and sustaining meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities. The work involves developing and implementing culturally safe and relevant pathways into medicine, engaging directly with students from Grades 7 to the undergraduate level, and inspiring the next generation of Indigenous physicians. We are seeking a proactive, and collaborative individual dedicated to a positive work environment. Candidates who are passionate about community-led engagement and ready to contribute to a healthier future for northern Alberta are encouraged to apply.

This position is based at the Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) Main Campus and requires regular travel to communities across northwestern Alberta. It may involve long-distance driving in rural conditions and participation in community events during evenings or weekends.

Duties 

• Build meaningful relationships and partnerships with Indigenous communities, leaders, and educators, focusing on outreach to students in northern and rural Alberta. Represent the Faculty on committees and networks such as the Indigenous Recruiter Circle and collaborate with the Vice-Provost’s Office and other university units to align efforts.
• Develop and coordinate recruitment activities, support services, and innovative engagement events designed to attract and support Indigenous students interested in medicine and dentistry. Support Indigenous students enrolled at the NAMP site.
• Plan, coordinate, and implement student support initiatives, workshops, and community events, ensuring they are culturally grounded and aligned with community goals.
• Serve as a key liaison for prospective Indigenous students, providing them with essential program information and support while maintaining clear communication channels with community partners. Serves as primary liaison to federal and provincial schools, community youth groups, and industry partners; develop and distribute informational materials and digital promotional tools.
• Arrange student support and placements for Indigenous students to connect with Indigenous healthcare professionals, alumni, and community leaders.
• Track engagement, recruitment, and admissions data for the NAMP site; prepare reports on outcomes and performance measures; contribute to planning and evaluation processes to ensure alignment with Faculty and institutional strategic goals.

Minimum Qualifications

• This person must be First Nation, Metis, or Inuit.
• An undergraduate degree, preferably in Indigenous studies, health sciences, or education.
• Three years of experience in organizing and implementing Indigenous community-based programs.
• Traditional Knowledge and relationships with community are required for this position. Demonstrated understanding of Indigenous communities, cultural safety, and protocols.
• Class 5 Driver's License - regular travel is required to communities across northwestern and northeastern Alberta. The position involves long-distance driving in rural conditions and attendance at occasional evening or weekend community events.
• Fluency in an Indigenous language is an asset.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Familiarity with key documents such as the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Calls to Action and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).
• Knowledge of Indigenous medical education, health systems, and programming that supports the improvement of Indigenous health.
• Lived experience or prior engagement with Indigenous communities in Treaty 8 or Métis settlements is a strong asset.

Application Instructions

All applicants are directed to follow the application process as outlined by the University of Alberta website and competition process - Indigenous Community Engagement and Recruitment Coordinator - Grande Prairie . Do not apply via the Northwestern Polytechnic's career page, your application will not be reviewed.  Please confirm all appointment details with the University of Alberta directly, as information on the NWP posting may not be in alignment with the Association and terms and conditions of employment within the University of Alberta.

This role requires confirmation of First Nation, Métis or Inuit membership or citizenship. Selected applicants will be asked for documentation prior to attending an interview.

At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.