Company Summary
Since 1866, Willis College has built a strong reputation as one of Canada's leading career colleges. As the oldest institution of its kind in the country, we continue to evolve with the changing labour market, delivering practical, in-demand skills training that prepares students for today's—and tomorrow's—workplace.
Our mission is to provide excellence in education to adult learners, supporting them in reaching their potential while gaining the skills and knowledge necessary to achieve their career goals.
Position Summary
Willis College is seeking an experienced and hands-on Teaching Assistant to support our Trades Up Program, an innovative workforce development initiative designed to help youth develop the skills, confidence, and knowledge needed to pursue careers in the skilled trades.
This position is ideal for someone with practical experience working in the skilled trades who enjoys working with young people and wants to share their knowledge and experience in a supportive learning environment.
Working alongside the program's faculty, the Teaching Assistant will support classroom instruction, student activities, hands-on learning, and day-to-day program administration. The successful candidate will play an important role in mentoring students, helping them build confidence and workplace skills, and supporting them toward successful completion of the program.
Key Responsibilities
Classroom & Instructional Support
- Support faculty with the delivery of classroom and hands-on learning activities.
- Assist with teaching and demonstrating trades-related concepts and practical skills.
- Provide additional support to students who require assistance with course material or activities.
- Help create an engaging, positive, and inclusive learning environment.
- Assist with classroom activities, demonstrations, projects, and experiential learning.
- Reinforce workplace safety, jobsite readiness, and professional expectations.
- Provide students with practical insight based on personal experience in the skilled trades.
Student Mentoring & Support
- Build positive relationships with students and serve as a supportive mentor throughout the program.
- Encourage students to develop confidence, resilience, professionalism, and workplace skills.
- Support students in overcoming barriers and staying engaged in their learning.
- Monitor student participation, attendance, progress, and engagement and communicate concerns to faculty or program leadership.
- Help students develop the habits and skills necessary for success in the workplace.
- Support students in exploring career opportunities within the skilled trades.
Program & Faculty Support
- Work closely with faculty to support the successful delivery of the Trades Up Program.
- Assist with preparing classrooms, materials, equipment, and learning activities.
- Support faculty with administrative and instructional tasks.
- Assist with maintaining accurate student records, attendance, evaluations, and program documentation.
- Participate in program activities, employer visits, guest presentations, workshops, and other learning opportunities.
- Support the coordination of certifications, activities, and student events as required.
Student Supervision & Safety
- Supervise students during classroom, workshop, and experiential learning activities.
- Promote safe work practices and ensure students follow established health and safety procedures.
- Report safety concerns, student issues, or incidents promptly to the appropriate faculty or program leadership.
- Contribute to a respectful, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.
Qualifications & Experience
Required
- Previous experience working in the skilled trades or a trades-related environment.
- Practical knowledge of construction, building, maintenance, or another skilled trade.
- Experience working with or mentoring youth, students, apprentices, or new employees is considered an asset.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to explain practical concepts clearly and patiently.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a teaching and program team.
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Commitment to student success, safety, and creating a positive learning environment.
Assets
- Experience providing training, coaching, mentoring, or instruction.
- Experience in a classroom, apprenticeship, workplace training, or educational environment.
- Relevant trade certification, apprenticeship experience, diploma, or other industry credentials.
- Experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds or those facing barriers to employment.
Application & Compliance Requirements
- Candidates may be required to provide copies of applicable trade certifications, diplomas, or other relevant credentials.
- This position is strictly subject to the successful completion and verification of a Criminal Record Check.
What You'll Bring
We are looking for someone who is practical, patient, approachable, and passionate about helping young people succeed. You don't need to be a career educator to be successful in this role—you need to bring your trades experience, enthusiasm, and willingness to mentor and support students.
If you enjoy sharing your knowledge, working with young people, and helping the next generation of skilled trades professionals get started, we would love to hear from you.
Willis College is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive and supportive learning and working environment.
Pay: $65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
