Academic Assistant Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

Department: Operations - Alberta
Employment Type: Full-Time
Requisition ID: 1896
Date Posted: July 8, 2026
Closing Date: July 22, 2026 or until filled

Program Overview:

The Future Field Leader Program is designed to build well-rounded leaders through hands-on rotations across UFA Farm Store operations and key business departments, providing practical exposure to multiple frontline and business roles. The program may also support co-op students, students, recent graduates, or early-career talent where appropriate. Participants rotate through defined assignments and locations for set periods of time, gaining exposure to retail operations, yard operations, receiving and logistics, and supporting corporate functions. The program is designed to build product knowledge and an understanding of inventory flow from receipt to customer, while also developing operational systems knowledge, documentation standards, and retail processes. Participants will further develop communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills while learning best practices in safety, compliance, merchandising, and customer service, supported by coaching, feedback, and exposure to frontline leadership and supervisory practices. Successful completion of the program builds readiness for future Assistant Store Manager, Yard Manager and other field leadership opportunities; placement into a specific role is not guaranteed and depends on performance, business needs, and available opportunities. Must be willing and able to relocate and work at various locations throughout Alberta and Saskatchewan as part of the rotational program.

Position Summary:

The Future Field Leader Candidate supports day-to-day store, yard, receiving, and site operations while delivering excellent customer service in alignment with company standards. Through structured rotations, participants gain exposure to operational execution, inventory flow, and leadership practices, learning how teams, systems, and safety standards support efficient and customer-focused operations. The role may be structured to support students, co-op participants, recent graduates, or early-career candidates, depending on business need and program requirements. Progressive responsibility may be assigned based on rotation length, performance, and learning objectives. This may include leading designated tasks, shifts, or projects under supervision. Each rotation is for a defined period with outlined learning objectives and scope of responsibility. Training and certifications (e.g., WHMIS, TDG, equipment training) will be provided as required. This role is designed for individuals pursuing a long-term career in Operations leadership and may progress into future Operations leadership positions.

Responsibilities (Rotation-Dependent):

• Delivering professional, customer-focused service in person and by phone
• Assisting customers with product selection, purchases, and basic issue resolution
• Supporting sales activity, customer relationship management, and lead follow-up
• Performing cash handling, billing, POS transactions, and basic administrative tasks
• Assisting with receiving, scanning, verifying, and documenting incoming and outgoing merchandise
• Supporting shipping, order fulfillment, inventory counts, and stock movement to the sales floor
• Maintaining clean, organized, and safe store, yard, warehouse, and receiving areas
• Assisting with merchandising standards and inventory presentation
• Supporting fuel, inventory, or equipment reconciliation activities where applicable
• Participating in safety programs and complying with all health, safety, and regulatory requirements
• Supporting special projects, seasonal events, and cross-site or cross-functional activities
• Gaining exposure to operational leadership through observation, shadowing, coaching, and assigned responsibilities

• Completing assigned learning objectives, program requirements, or co-op/student documentation where applicable.

• Supporting various customer service, supply chain or other business functions

Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in a post-secondary program, or eligible for a co-op or student work placement, or a recent graduate from a relevant program is considered an asset.
• Leadership experience gained through work, academics, or volunteer activities is an asset
• Experience demonstrating initiative, accountability, collaboration, and leadership potential
• Strong interest in operations, retail, supply chain, agriculture, or customer service

• Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively in a team environment
• Willingness to learn, take initiative, and adapt to different work environments and rotations
• Basic computer proficiency
• Ability to perform physical duties, including lifting up to 25 kg
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings or weekends, depending on rotation

• Must be willing and able to relocate and work at various locations throughout Alberta and Saskatchewan as part of the rotational program.

You and UFA. Let's Grow Together.

UFA is one of Canada's largest and most progressive agricultural co-operatives. We're a multi-billion-dollar organization that offers the products, services, and support our 127,000+ members need to build, grow and succeed. While our roots will always be in agriculture, we're proud to support the industries and communities that drive Western Canada's economy. We need your skills, expertise and ideas to help us keep growing.

• A Business with a Purpose - Join a member-owned co-operative with a mission that matters: improving the well-being of our members, helping them feed the world, and enabling investment in local communities.
• Recognized and Rewarded for Your Performance - At UFA, success is shared. You'll own your work and be recognized for both individual and organizational results.
• Work-Life Success - We prioritize safety, respect your time, and offer flexible options and comprehensive benefits to support your life inside and outside of work.
• We Help Each Other Grow - Our collaborative culture fosters growth through hands-on experience, mentorship, training, educational support, and diverse career paths.

Diversity Equity, and Belonging

At UFA, we care about our employees and what makes them unique. We strive to create an inclusive environment that welcomes employees from diverse backgrounds, where everyone can do their best work. If you require accommodation during the application or selection process, please contact careers@ufa.com.
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We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.