The Co-op Employer Relations & Job Development Specialist is responsible for building and maintaining relationships with industry partners to expand co-op employment opportunities for students. This role involves identifying new partnership opportunities, nurturing existing employer relationships, and representing the institution at events to promote the co-op program's value. The specialist also assists with planning and executing career-related events to connect employers with students.
Key Responsibilities:

• Proactively identify and develop new partnerships with employers to create additional co-op and employment opportunities for students.
• Maintain regular communication with existing employer partners to ensure continued satisfaction and engagement in co-op programs.
• Represent the institution at networking events, job fairs, industry conferences, and employer meetings to promote the value of co-op programs and student talent.
• Assist in the planning and execution of career events, workshops, and employer presentations.
• Maintain accurate records of employer contacts, job opportunities, student placements, and feedback.
• Work collaboratively with faculty, student services, and other internal stakeholders to align co-op program initiatives with institutional priorities.

Qualifications:

• Post-secondary education in business development, communications, human resources, career development, or a related field.
• Experience in employer relations, business development, sales, or partnership management is an asset.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Effective communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Knowledge of co-op programs, recruitment practices, or the local labor market is considered an asset.

About VanWest College:

VanWest College is a privately owned Canadian college with campuses located in Vancouver and Kelowna, British Columbia. The College is certified by the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) branch of the BC government Ministry of Advanced Education. Certification by PTIB assures clients that VanWest College delivers education and training programs that meet and exceed high quality educational standards and student protection. Highly interactive program courses, taught by industry leaders, are designed to improve students' communication skills, increase business knowledge and refine job-search and employability skills. Students will acquire the essential real-life skills necessary to be successful in a workplace environment and students in co-op programs will spend approximately 50% of their program time in paid, authentic Canadian job placements. For real learning, real experience and real results, VanWest College is the premiere choice.