MDC Academic Advisor

Macedonia Development Corporation, NFP•East St. Louis, IL

8d•Onsite

About The Position

Macedonia Development Corporation (MDC) is a mission-driven nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening individuals, families, and communities through education, workforce development, affordable housing, and community revitalization. We believe education is a catalyst for economic mobility and lifelong success. We are seeking a compassionate, organized, and student-centered Academic Advisor to support participants in achieving their educational, career, and personal goals through comprehensive advising, coaching, and resource navigation. The Academic Advisor provides individualized academic advising, success coaching, and student support services for participants enrolled in MDC’s educational and workforce initiatives, including BRS, TSS, and IS programs. The advisor helps students develop academic plans, overcome barriers to persistence, connect with campus and community resources, and successfully complete educational and career objectives. The ideal candidate is passionate about student success, demonstrates strong interpersonal skills, and thrives in a collaborative, mission-focused environment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Education, Counseling, Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, Student Affairs, or a related field.
OR Associate degree with significant professional experience in academic advising, student services, case management, workforce development, or a closely related field.
Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills
Strong written and verbal communication abilities
Ability to motivate, coach, and support diverse student populations
Strong organizational and time-management skills
Ability to maintain confidential student records
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and cloud-based technology
Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail
Commitment to equity, student success, and community engagement

Nice To Haves

Five or more years of experience advising students or clients in educational, nonprofit, workforce development, or human services settings.
Experience working with first-generation college students, adult learners, or underserved populations.
Experience with case management or student success coaching.
Familiarity with higher education systems, workforce development programs, or community-based services.
Experience using student information systems, databases, or case management software is preferred

Responsibilities

Provide individualized academic advising and educational planning.
Assist students in establishing academic, career, and personal goals.
Develop individualized success plans and monitor student progress.
Conduct regular follow-up meetings to encourage persistence and completion.
Help students identify and overcome academic and personal barriers.
Connect students with tutoring, financial aid, counseling, childcare, transportation, and other community resources.
Provide guidance regarding academic policies, registration, degree requirements, and educational pathways.
Support students transitioning into postsecondary education or workforce training programs.
Maintain ongoing communication with participants to encourage engagement and retention.
Maintain accurate student records and case notes.
Track student participation, outcomes, and program milestones.
Prepare reports required by program leadership and funding agencies.
Ensure compliance with program requirements and confidentiality standards.
Collaborate with educational institutions, workforce partners, and community organizations.
Participate in recruitment, orientation, workshops, and student success events.
Support outreach initiatives that promote educational access and program participation.
Represent MDC professionally within the community.
Assist with program planning and implementation.
Support special projects and educational initiatives.
Participate in staff meetings and professional development opportunities.
Contribute ideas for improving student engagement and program effectiveness.