Academic Specialist | Columbia Middle School | (Burbank, WA)

Washington State University•Richland, WA

22h•Onsite

About The Position

Washington State University Tri-Cities GEAR UP is hiring an Academic Specialist at Columbia Middle School in Burbank, Washington. The Academic Specialist uses professional judgment and skills to improve GEAR UP students’ academic performance through direct tutoring and the development of positive academic behaviors and non-cognitive skills. The federally funded GEAR UP program aims to increase the number of low-income and underrepresented students who graduate from high school and successfully complete post-secondary education. This is a full-time, temporary, on-site position expected to end September 30, 2027. Renewal depends on whether an extension is needed and additional funding is secured. The role is overtime eligible, requires a flexible schedule that includes frequent nights and weekends, and may involve occasional supervisory responsibility for students. Overnight travel is required. The position is not eligible for work visa sponsorship.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and two years of professional experience in student services, specifically providing instruction or direct outreach services to students and/or working with parents in individual or group settings, or related education or experience.
A master’s degree in a related field may substitute for one year of professional work experience.
Relevant education and professional experience may be substituted for the educational requirement on a year-for-year basis.
Proficiency with computers, Google Workspace, and Microsoft Office software.
Willingness and ability to travel overnight and work a flexible schedule, including frequent nights and weekends.
Ability to take occasional supervisory responsibility for students.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated knowledge of school programs, student success, school communities, and/or parental involvement in community or school settings.
Familiarity with the organization and operation of school or district administration and university or community college systems.
Strong interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to collaborate with diverse groups, including peers, university and school administrators, faculty, staff, students, parents, and the general public.
Experience managing, tracking, and reporting program data.
Experience in student academic support programs.

Responsibilities

Mentor and advise students to increase college and career readiness.
Guide students in college and career exploration.
Plan and supervise field trips to college campuses.
Collaborate with GEAR UP staff, classroom teachers, counselors, and administrators to achieve GEAR UP grant outcomes.
Monitor, collect, and document student data for assessment and reporting requirements.
Provide direct tutoring and support the development of positive academic behaviors and non-cognitive skills.