Who We Are
Simon Fraser University is a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future. Our purpose – the essence of SFU – is to create and connect knowledge, learning and community for deeper understanding and meaningful impact. We are committed to fostering excellence, innovation, belonging and community in all that we do.
The Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue at Simon Fraser University is a nationally recognized hub for public engagement. Our team collaborates with government, community partners, and civil society to create inclusive dialogue that informs policy and drives co-created solutions. We deliver diverse services—from virtual forums to large-scale stakeholder consultations—that contribute directly to SFU’s strategic priorities in innovation, social equity, and democratic participation. Our culture is dynamic, collaborative, and committed to continuous learning, ensuring we foster an environment where creative problem solving and respectful dialogue and deliberation lead to impactful public outcomes.
About the Role
The Dialogue and Public Engagement Coordinator plays a vital role in supporting SFU’s mission of fostering informed public discourse. This position is responsible for designing and facilitating virtual and in-person forums, managing stakeholder outreach, coordinating multi-scale events, and producing detailed reports that guide policy development. The role supports a range of initiatives—including projects on rural climate adaptation, Indigenous community engagement, and knowledge mobilization—ensuring that diverse perspectives inform decision-making at community, municipal, provincial, and federal levels. Working closely with senior staff and collaborating with a variety of external partners, the Coordinator will help bridge community insights with strategic policy goals. This position not only supports day-to-day operational needs but also contributes to long-term capacity building within the Centre, aligning with SFU’s overarching goals of promoting inclusivity and innovative public engagement.
The ideal candidate is a skilled facilitator with a solid foundation in public engagement and a proven ability to coordinate complex projects. They demonstrate effective conflict resolution, strong research and reporting skills, and the ability to communicate with diverse communities. Experience applying dialogue strategies with specialized expertise —such as Citizens' Assemblies, rural climate adaptation, legal aid and access to justice—is essential. The candidate is proficient in digital communication tools, multilingual, and comfortable working independently as well as collaboratively. This blend of technical, interpersonal, and sector-specific expertise ensures the candidate is uniquely positioned to contribute to SFU’s dynamic team.
Full Job Description
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Arts, Business, Communications, Social Sciences or another relevant discipline, with one year of relevant experience in consulting, public policy, planning, project management, communications, public engagement or similar fields, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
Based on current projects and client obligations, we have identified the following minimum qualifications for this posting:
- Deep Democracy Level 3 Certification & Citizens’ Assembly Facilitation:
The candidate must hold a Deep Democracy Level 3 certification and have direct, documented experience facilitating a Citizens’ Assembly on policy or urban planning matters. - Cross-Cultural Fluency & Multilingual Expertise:
The candidate must demonstrate facilitation experience in Punjabi, as well as a strong understanding of the diverse historical, political and cross-cultural contexts experienced by Punjabi and South Asian diaspora in British Columbia. - Design and Facilitation of Public Legal Education & Access to Justice Discussions:
The candidate must have direct, documented experience in designing and facilitating sector-wide discussions on public legal education and access to justice, with clear evidence of successful outcomes. - Rural Climate Adaptation Initiatives:
Proven, hands-on experience in rural climate adaptation projects is required, including measurable outcomes and client endorsements. - Trauma-Informed Facilitation for Marginalized Communities:
Proven experience using trauma-informed facilitation strategies to engage historically marginalized groups. Must demonstrate the ability to foster trust, empower vulnerable voices, and apply culturally sensitive dialogue methods.
What We Offer
At SFU, our goal is to ensure our people are valued and supported by promoting a healthy work-life balance, professional growth and development, as well as a safe and respectful workplace. We offer continuing employees who belong in the Administrative & Professional Staff Association (APSA):
- 4 weeks’ vacation (prorated for the first year)*
- Hybrid-work program for eligible positions
- Employer paid defined benefit pension plan
- On-campus tuition waiver for employees and their immediate family members*
- Off-campus tuition reimbursements and professional development funds*
- And more! View our benefits brochure
*Prorated for part-time employees
Additional Information
Please include your cover letter and resume in one attachment.
SFU is an equity employer and strongly encourages applications from all qualified individuals including women, Indigenous Peoples, visible minorities, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, persons with disabilities, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of the university.
We are committed to ensuring that the application and interview process is accessible to all applicants. If you require any assistance or accommodations, please contact pei_reception@sfu.ca.