FEATURED JOB: Education and Research Coordinator (OMSSA)

POSITION PURPOSE

To provide support related to event coordination, administration, and content development in support of the OMSSA’s (the Association) education objectives.

ACCOUNTABILITIES AND RELATIONSHIPS   
Reports to the Director of Education. Works closely with other staff of the Association to continue linkages and integration between education and policy initiatives. Will work alongside the Manager, Research and Conference Programming to promote and to build partnerships and alliances with other individuals and organizations to further the aims of the Association through its conferences and events. Also works in partnership with the Communications and Member Engagement Manager.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 
The following describes the general nature and level of work being performed. This is not an exhaustive list of all job duties. Other duties may be assigned. 
 
Administrative Duties:
  • Managing calendars for all workshops, OMSSA Academy and events.
  • Monitoring general education email, answering general inquiries and forwarding all other inquiries to appropriate staff.
  • Supporting Director of Education and facilitators to ensure all professional development materials and files are maintained and current.
  • Note-taking during conference planning calls.
  • Maintaining relevant workshop and event information on the OMSSA website.
  • Scheduling and sending weekly marketing campaigns for workshops and events.
  • Proofreading materials for accuracy.
Event Coordination (in-person and virtual):
  • Leading registration pre-event and on site for conferences.
  • Setting up virtual events and workshops on associated platforms.
  • Creating and sending calendar invites for virtual workshops and events.
  • Opening and supporting virtual workshop sessions, as needed,
  • Ensuring materials are ready for virtual and in-person events.
  • Working with conference team on event logistics, including catering, badges, signage, related event materials, and audio/visual requirements.
  • Assisting with special events development and planning, such as awards banquet and networking activities, as needed.
  • Coordinating venue set-up and logistics either on-site or with on site contact for in person workshops
Conferences and Events Research
  • Supporting Manager, Research and Conference Programming in developing pre-conference survey (as needed), call for proposals (as needed), planning committee, and conference schedule.
  • Working with Manager, Research and Conference Programming to identify themes, titles, and descriptions for sessions.
  • Researching and evaluating potential event speakers.
  • Leading planning calls with speakers to discuss session content and develop the session script.

QUALIFICATIONS   

Education and Experience
  • Diploma in Event Planning with relevant education in Political Science, Sociology, Social Work, or other social science with relevant work experience.
  • 2 to 3 years’ experience in related work and demonstrated knowledge of the human services sector. Experience working in a member-based association, municipal government, or social services would be an asset.
Knowledge, skills and abilities 
  • Proven project management and planning skills.
  • Excellent written, customer service and oral communication skills.
  • Ability to gather relevant information from different sources and analyze it critically to contribute to event content and programming.
  • Sound knowledge of business and communication applications and technology.
  • Detail-oriented and thorough to ensure delivery of accurate information.
  • Independent, organized and proactive to ensure goals and objectives are met.
  • A diplomatic team player who supports and promotes a positive work environment.
  • Ability to travel and work outside of business hours as necessary. 
  • Excellent people skills and a proven ability to manage relationships.
  • Ability to work well under pressure and to manage multiple priorities.
  • Ability to work extended hours for conferences
  • Ability and willingness to travel within Ontario
  • Knowledge of venues and catering is an asset.
  • Experience and/or familiarity with municipal social services and municipal government in Ontario is an asset.
Proficiency in the use of computers for: 
  • Excellent working knowledge of Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint and other Microsoft Office tools.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in using Zoom, Teams, and/or Webex.
  • Familiarity with marketing tools such as Constant Contact
  • Knowledge of Canva and Adobe Suite
Working Conditions 
The Education and Research Coordinator works in a remote office environment, with monthly in person meetings in a variety of locations throughout the GTA and GTHA.  The work of the Association may sometimes require work in nonstandard workplaces. The position works a standard work week but occasionally will work evenings and weekends to accommodate activities of the Association. The role involves moderate travel at mostly predictable times of the year.

The deadline to apply for this role is March 7, 2025. Please send your resume and cover letter to omssa-academy@omssa.com. 

About OMSSA
The Ontario Municipal Social Services Association (OMSSA) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization whose members are Ontario’s Consolidated Municipal Service Managers (CMSMs) and District Social Services Administration Boards (DSSABs). By supporting, connecting and advocating for our members across Ontario, we help them to achieve their collective mission of delivering the best human services outcomes for Ontario’s communities.