Job Description
Nature and Scope
All Orientation Volunteers will work alongside the O-Team to support Orientation’s events. This includes cross-campus events that support all incoming new undergraduate students and faculty-specific programming. Orientation Volunteers will also be expected to support the Campus Housing move-in experience on September 5 and 6 by fostering a welcoming environment at assigned residence locations.
General Accountability
All Orientation Volunteers are accountable to the Waterloo Orientation Team (O-Team), the Waterloo Undergraduate Student Association, and the University of Waterloo, to ensure the successful implementation of Orientation Week. The University of Waterloo welcomes approximately 7,000 first-year students each year. All Orientation Volunteers must have a desire and passion for helping new students and must be positive role models both personally and academically. Orientation Volunteers will need to be flexible and possess the ability to work closely with, and lead, others. This requires clear analytical thinking and excellent interpersonal skills.
Key Accountabilities
- Promote and connect students to appropriate academic and personal support services across campus
- Share personal stories and experiences as they relate to transition and adjusting to university
- Promote positive school spirit and a sense of community
- Build a climate of trust, respect, and inclusivity
Requirements and Qualifications
- Ability to work as a contributing member of the Waterloo Orientation volunteer team
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Willingness to take initiative to get things done and act as a role model
- Be an undergraduate student (including co-op) until the end of the Fall 2026 term.
- Candidates should not have serious incidents or allegations of misconduct as assessed by their Associate Dean. Note that minor infractions will not automatically exclude a candidate from consideration. Please note: Each candidate is assessed on an individual basis.
- Event Leads and Team Captains will be required to be first aid certified (minimum Emergency First Aid with CPR-B). With an official payment receipt from certification in 2026, this expense can be reimbursed up to a maximum of $100.
Mandatory/Important Dates
- Orientation Week: Saturday, September 5- Saturday, September 12
- Pre-Week Retreat: Friday, September 4
All Orientation Volunteer must attend the mandatory pre-week retreat to help prepare for Orientation. Event Leads and Team Captains will also be required to attend training for faculty-specific programming on Thursday, September 3.
Leader Retreats and Appreciation initiatives
More information about other engagement opportunities throughout your role will be communicated by the O-Team when it becomes available.
Orientation Leader Training
All Orientation Volunteers are required to complete the mandatory online Orientation Leader Training (OLT). Once you have accepted your position, you will be enrolled in the course on LEARN (late June 2026) where you will be required to read through the modules and complete the quizzes. The deadline to complete the online OLT course is Friday, July 17, 2026, at 11:59 pm EDT. Failure to complete the course will result in your Orientation position being revoked.
Additional Notes:
Leader applications will open April 1, 2026, and will close on May 24, 2026, at 11:59 pm EDT
All communication will be sent via your UWaterloo email address. Please be sure to check this (including your junk folder) frequently to ensure you do not miss any of the deadlines associated with offer confirmations.
Have questions about the roles or the information provided? Reach out to orientation@uwaterloo.ca to speak with an Orientation representative!
Position Descriptions:
Event Lead
The Event Leads play a key role in bringing Orientation Week to life by supporting event planning and overseeing the day-of execution for up to two major events, this may include one faculty-based event and one cross-campus event. This role requires strong leadership, organization, and problem-solving skills, as Event Leads are responsible for a variety of tasks which may include event planning/brainstorming, coordinating day-of event logistics, supporting volunteers, troubleshooting issues in real time, and ensuring events run smoothly from start to finish. Event Leads also provide additional support to other Orientation events as needed, based on availability. This position is ideal for individuals who have previously volunteered with Orientation Week and are looking to take on a more senior, hands-on role. Event Leads gain valuable experience in event management and leadership while making a meaningful impact on the incoming student experience.
- This role will be required to be first aid certified (minimum Emergency First Aid with CPR-B). With an official payment receipt from certification in 2026, this expense can be reimbursed up to a maximum of $100 + HST.
Team Captain
Team Captains are responsible for leading and supporting front-line leader teams during Orientation Week, ensuring a welcoming, inclusive, and engaging experience for incoming undergraduate students. Team Captains may help to coordinate schedules, communicate key information, and provide guidance and support to front-line leaders. They play a crucial role in fostering team morale, addressing questions or concerns, and adapting to changing needs throughout the week. This role is ideal for volunteers who have previously supported Orientation Week and are eager to step into a leadership position with increased responsibility. Team Captains develop valuable skills in teamwork, communication, and leadership while directly shaping the overall Orientation Week experience.
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This role will be required to be first aid certified (minimum Emergency First Aid with CPR-B). With an official payment receipt from certification in 2026, this expense can be reimbursed up to a maximum of $100 + HST.
Front Line Leader
Front-line Leaders are the heart of Orientation Week, supporting day-of event execution and helping incoming first-year students feel connected, supported, and excited about their university experience. In this role, volunteers may assist with a variety of tasks, including welcoming students, facilitating activities, answering questions, and providing behind-the-scenes logistical support. Front-line Leaders play an important role in fostering peer-to-peer connections and creating a positive, inclusive environment throughout Orientation Week. This position offers both front-facing (i.e. engaging directly with incoming undergraduate students) and back-end opportunities (i.e., event set-up, logistics, photography), allowing volunteers to build skills in communication, teamwork, and event support. The Front-line Leader role is ideal for both new volunteers and returning Orientation volunteers who want to make a meaningful impact while gaining valuable experience and connections. Please note, the application form will ask you to identify if you prefer front-facing or behind-the-scenes roles.