Why take your career to VIU?
Your career is more than a job. It’s a unique part of your identity and informs the impact you have on the world. You also invest a lot of time in your work life, so why not join an organization that helps you make your work life great?
Join a culture of understanding, connection and commitment
Every day, we welcome, support, and inspire all those who study and work at VIU. In our research and through our partnerships, we seek to understand the rich diversity of our region and to encourage the well-being of our communities. We are dedicated to helping our learners and our communities embrace their potential. We believe that everyone matters here.
- Understanding. We seek to understand the diversity of thought, identity, and experience of everyone at VIU, and to bring that openness of mind and that curiosity of spirit to all that we do.
- Connection. We believe in the power of personal connection and kindness in building experiences that matter.
- Commitment. We are motivated by a deep commitment and pride in the growth of our learners, our employees, and our communities.
Make an impact
With over 1,300 employees, our campus community is a place where you can pursue a variety of career options. We are faculty, administrators, counsellors, librarians, chefs, healthcare professionals, skilled tradespeople, clerks, support staff, researchers and more. There’s a place for you at VIU.
VIU was once again named one of British Columbia's top 100 employers in 2024 by the Top Employers program. We are honoured to be recognized with this award and all that it represents about the VIU employment experience.
“We are proud to be recognized once again as a Top Employer in BC. This recognition reflects VIU’s commitment to our employees, as expressed in our Strategic Plan – People, Place, Potential; and our People Plan – Mattering Here. VIU is made up of incredible employees who demonstrate commitment and dedication to our students and to supporting each other. You Matter Here!”
-- AVP Human Resources, Dan VanderSluis
Support for your well-being
VIU is pleased to offer eligible employees a comprehensive benefit plan; ample paid holiday time; professional development opportunities and a desirable pension plan. As part of the VIU campus community, our employees work with supportive colleagues within an encouraging environment that promotes learning and development. The perks of VIU employment are multiple, and include well-being initiatives and services, strategic discounts, and flexible work opportunities.
Find your community
VIU operates four campuses including a main campus in Nanaimo and regional campuses in Cowichan (Duncan), Powell River (tiwšɛmawtxʷ) and a centre in Parksville•Qualicum. Our welcoming, inclusive campus communities foster a workplace culture that’s about helping each other achieve our full potential.
Plant your roots in an ideal location
The City of Nanaimo hosts VIU's main campus and is located on the southeast side of Vancouver Island. Home to approximately 114,000 residents, Nanaimo is the second largest urban centre on Vancouver Island Nanaimo is a growing city that enjoys a skilled and educated labour force.
Nanaimo residents enjoy a relaxed yet vibrant lifestyle in an area characterized by the natural beauty of forests, mountains, and shorelines. Vast recreational opportunities through sports, outdoor recreation, and cultural festivals and activities are abundant and provide something for everyone. Golfing, kayaking, whale watching, fishing, swimming, scuba diving, and skiing are just some of the popular activities that the area offers. The popular Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, Port Theatre, Nanaimo Art Gallery, Nanaimo Museum, and 166 public art installations showcase the diverse cultures and unique history of the city.
There are over 30 public and private elementary and secondary schools in Nanaimo and over 18 unique neighbourhoods to call home. Multiple airports and ferry terminals service the region, meaning coming and going from the Island is quick and convenient.
Nanaimo was named one of Canada’s comfiest climates by Environment Canada due to its mild temperatures. Winter in Nanaimo is mild with rain, and temperatures rarely fall below freezing. In the summertime, the days are cool and dry, and the average daily temperature is around 24 degrees Celsius.
Cowichan takes its name from “Quw’utsun,” the name given to the valley by its original inhabitants, the Quw’utsun people. It is rooted in the Hul’q’umi’num word “shquw’utsun” which directly translated means “to warm one’s back in the sun,” and is why our valley is, and always has been known as The Warm Land.
Cowichan is located in Canada’s only maritime Mediterranean climatic zone and is home to the warmest year–round temperatures in the country. For decades now, Cowichan has been producing amazing artisanal food and drink from the region’s burgeoning farms, wineries, cideries and distilleries. Yet, the food and drink are just the tip of the iceberg! From concerts and festivals to outdoor fun, like biking, hiking, fishing, kayaking and more, Cowichan features a long list of things to do all year round. But what really makes this warm land live up to its name is the chill, unhurried pace and the many quiet, unspoiled spots to enjoy it in.
Visit the VIU Cowichan Campus.
The city of Powell River (tiskʷat) is the largest community on the Sunshine Coast with a resident population of approximately 13,943 people. Powell River is located on the traditional territory of the Tla’amin Nation and is a city surrounded by natural beauty and adventure. It is home to the Sunshine Coast Trail, the Powell Forest Canoe Route, and world-class rock climbing opportunities in the Eldred Valley. In Powell River, you’ll discover not only the wide range of outdoor adventures to be had, but the thriving local arts and culture scene as well.
Visit the VIU Powell River Campus.
A proud partner of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion.