Intermediate Specialist, Practicum, Nutrition

University of Ottawa•Ottawa, ON

14d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the supervision of the Director of the School of Nutrition Sciences, the Intermediate Specialist oversees the administration of activities related to practicum training and coordination. Works closely with the Senior Specialist, Practicum, the Director, the Assistant Director of undergraduate studies, faculty and practicum sites to ensure the smooth operation of practicums and coordination of activities related to students' practical education. Ensures practicums meet academic and professional standards, thereby guaranteeing that students acquire the skills necessary to become professionals in dietetics. Participates in the pedagogical training of students by offering pre-practicum training and by participating in and coordinating various laboratories and simulation activities.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science degree with a specialization in nutrition and dietetics, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
Minimum of 3 years of experience as a dietitian.
Member of the College of Dietitians of Ontario.
Member of the Dietitians of Canada.
Experience interpreting and applying regulations.
Experience as a clinical supervisor or with knowledge transfer and development.
Project management skills.
Knowledge of various work settings within dietetic professions.
Knowledge of computer systems and digital communication tools.
Ability to work in a team and collaborate.
Creativity and initiative.
Negotiation skills, tact, and diplomacy.
Independence and professional commitment.
Ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing, in both official languages.
Interpersonal skills and dynamism.
Bilingualism: French and English (spoken and written); to be considered for this position, candidates must be rated at the Low Advanced proficiency level or higher for both oral comprehension and reading comprehension in their second official language. The rating is determined by a proficiency test designed by the Official Languages and Bilingualism Institute.
Planning: Organize in time a series of actions or events in order to realize an objective or a project. Plan and organize own work and priorities in regular daily activities.
Initiative: Demonstrate creativity and initiative to suggest improvements and encourage positive results. Is proactive and self-starting. Show availability and willingness to go above and beyond whenever it is possible.
Client Service Orientation: Help or serve others to meet their needs. This implies anticipating and identifying the needs of internal and external clients and finding solutions on how to meet them.
Teamwork and Cooperation: Cooperate and work well with other members of the team to reach common goal(s). Accept and give constructive feedback. Able to adjust own behaviour to reach the goals of the team.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of the university setting would be an asset.

Responsibilities

Trains and educates students and practicum supervisors on established procedures, requirements, and competencies to clarify expectations and foster a healthy practicum environment.
Ensures students receive training to guarantee optimal preparation before their practicum.
Acts as an academic advisor to help students meet their learning objectives during their practicum.
Meets with practicum supervisors to ensure their support and guidance throughout the practicum.
As needed, participates in student orientation and welcome sessions to provide information conducive to a successful practicum.
Participates in the educational training of students in dietetics laboratories and simulation activities.
Interacts with students and, as needed, provides additional support to help them meet laboratory objectives.
Prepares and delivers pre-practicum training to students to inform them of the procedures, requirements, and evaluation process.
Provides training on concepts related to ethics and professionalism in the workplace.
Evaluates certain aspects of students' work and knowledge for grading purposes.
Assists in reviewing course syllabi and other documents related to practicums in collaboration with the Senior Specialist and relevant partners.
Ensures the continuous improvement of these documents and maintains their contents' relevance in terms of professional competencies and learning outcomes.
Coordinates the files pertaining to pre-practicum requirements for the dietetics program.
Participates in data compilation and analysis related to practicums and continuous improvement processes.
Serves as a liaison between the postsecondary establishment, the institutions where the practicums take place (hospitals, clinics, community centers, etc.) and students to ensure high-quality practicums satisfying all parties involved.
Participates in the overall management of the practical training component and contributes to the development and implementation of policies and procedures that ensure the objectives of the practicums are clearly defined by all parties involved.
Organizes sessions and meetings with practicum supervisors to ensure their support and guidance over time.
Establishes and maintains close ties between the University and practicum partners to foster relationships that may lead to future practicums.
Takes note of feedback to improve practicum processes and procedures.
Organizes and participates in activities to solicit the collaboration of practicum supervisors.
Participates in meetings and committees/working groups for the Dietetics Program, as well as in initiatives related to promoting the program.
Serves as a representative of the University of Ottawa on various committees related to practical education.