Indigenous STEM Youth Participation / Education

Position: Program Coordinator: Indigenous S.T.E.M Outreach
Organization: University of Victoria - Science Venture
Location: Victoria, BC

Position Summary:

UVic’s Science Venture, a network member of Actua, is an award-winning, university-based educational outreach program that encourages youth participation in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Science Venture delivers a variety of programs including weeklong campus, in-school/campus workshops, and afterschool/weekend clubs. Through strong community partnerships with communities in BC and other youth serving organizations, Science Venture reaches over 17,000 BC youth in kindergarten through grade 12 per year. Undergraduate students, including work-study and co-op, provide program delivery. Additional, support is provided by 60+ high school volunteers. Science Venture actively contributes to the strategic priorities of UVic by supporting: an engaged campus, student experience, internationalization, community engagement, and Indigenous community/student support.

Under the direction of the Director, STEM Youth Outreach, the Programs Coordinator: Indigenous S.T.E.M Outreach will lead and coordinate STEM outreach programs for Indigenous youth. This role requires close collaboration with Indigenous communities, educational institutions, and other stakeholders to create culturally relevant STEM programming. Responsibilities include planning and assessing program activities, as well as building relationships to enhance Indigenous community engagement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (S.T.E.M).

The position will be primarily based out the University of Victoria campus. Some evening and weekend work as well as multi-day travel to locations across Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands and the Sunshine Coast can be anticipated.

Key Responsibilities:

• Under the direction of the Director, STEM Youth Outreach, lead and coordinate outreach initiatives, workshops, and events tailored to Indigenous communities, ensuring alignment with community needs and cultural contexts.
• Work with the Director to establish program budgets and goals and coordinate with the Manager of Programs to meet specific program objectives and targets.
• Organize, plan and implement programs including travel, supplies purchase, and volunteer coordination.
• Build and maintain relationships with Indigenous community leaders, educational institutions, and youth-serving organizations.
• Regularly assess program impact and adjust content to align with participant feedback and best practices.
• Collaborate with post-secondary institutions, school districts, and local and regional partners to enhance program reach and quality.

Skills and Qualifications:

This position requires a level of education, training, and experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in: Science, Engineering, Education, Indigenous Studies, Community Development or a related field, with a minimum 1 years of experience in outreach, education, or community engagement roles, particularly with Indigenous communities. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities include:

• Knowledge of Indigenous cultures and traditions.
• Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to build and maintain positive working relationships.
• Experience designing culturally relevant educational programs.
• Valid Driver’s license – (Class 4 Unrestricted would be an asset).
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Demonstrated experience working with Indigenous communities showing cultural acumen and respect.
• Ability to travel for extended periods: work-related travel to communities to deliver Science Venture programs and liaise with community partners.
• Ability to provide a clear criminal record check.

Assets:

• Familiarity and knowledge of the BC Science and ADST curriculum
• Familiarity with the University of Victoria campus and program/degree options
• Experience with graphic design (e.g. Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and Canva)
• Familiarity with WHMIS, Lab Safety, Biosafety and UVic’s Hazardous Waste Management system
• Familiarity with the MS Office Suite (Outlook, Teams, Word and Excel) and GSuite
• Other certifications: Informed Trauma Response, Youth Inclusion or HIGH FIVE Training would all be considered assets

Please apply directly through UVic's career page:
https://uvic.mua.hrdepartment.com/hr/ats/Posting/view/11951

Please mention you saw this at GoodWork.ca.

Questions? Please contact Dave: svdirector@uvic.ca