Academic Specialist | McFarland Middle School | (Othello, WA)

Washington State University•Richland, WA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Washington State University Tri-Cities GEAR UP is hiring an Academic Specialist at McFarland Middle School in Othello, Washington. The 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. GEAR UP is federally funded through Department of Education grants intended 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, 100% FTE, temporary, overtime-eligible, in-person position with a 12-month term. It is expected to end September 30, 2027; renewal depends on the need for an extension and/or additional funding. The monthly salary is $4,152.19–$4,940.13, with placement based on experience, education, skills, and abilities. The position is not eligible for work visa sponsorship and requires a background check.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and two years of professional experience in student services, specifically providing instruction or direct outreach to students and/or working with parents in individual or group settings, or related education/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, the school community, and/or parental involvement in a community or school setting.
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

Provide direct tutoring and support to improve GEAR UP students’ academic performance.
Develop students’ positive academic behaviors and non-cognitive skills.
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 grant outcomes.
Monitor, collect, and document student data for assessment and reporting requirements.