Saint Paul University

What is Saint Paul University?

Saint Paul University (Université Saint-Paul) is a bilingual Catholic university in Ottawa, Canada, federated with the University of Ottawa since 1965. Founded in 1848 as the College of Bytown, it is the founding institution from which the University of Ottawa grew. Today Saint Paul focuses on humanities and social sciences, with internationally regarded programs in theology, philosophy, canon law, conflict studies, social innovation, social communication, counselling and spirituality, and human relations.

Where will I work?

Saint Paul's campus is in central Ottawa at 223 Main Street, on the edge of the Sandy Hill neighbourhood next to the University of Ottawa. Administrative and academic roles are primarily on-site. The campus is bilingual — both English and French are working languages, and many roles require functional bilingualism.

What is the Saint Paul team like?

The university employs roughly 350 staff across academic, research, and administrative roles, including faculty, librarians, IT, finance, communications, student services, and facilities teams. Saint Paul is a values-driven, mission-led institution rooted in Catholic intellectual tradition, with a strong focus on social justice, ecology, and dialogue across cultures.

Work-Life Balance

Saint Paul University is one of the most progressive employers in Canadian higher education when it comes to working hours. In late 2023, the university and the Administrative Staff Personnel union (ASPSPU) ratified a new collective agreement introducing a Variable Work Week reducing standard hours from 35 to 28 per week for administrative staff — with no change in compensation or benefits. The arrangement is in force through April 2027 and has been credited with significant improvements in recruitment and retention. (The 28-hour week applies to administrative staff covered by ASPSPU; faculty work to academic-calendar terms.)

Perks and Benefits

• 28-hour work week for administrative staff at full salary
• Defined-benefit pension plan
• Group health and dental insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Statutory and supplemental parental leave
• Tuition support and professional development
• Generous vacation aligned with the academic calendar
• Bilingual working environment in central Ottawa