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

Washington State University • Richland, WA

1d • $4,152 - $4,940 • 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. The role supports students’ college and career readiness through mentoring, advising, and exploration activities, and contributes to program outcomes in collaboration with school and GEAR UP personnel. The GEAR UP program is federally funded by 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, 12-month position. It is an in-person role in Othello, WA, and is expected to end September 30, 2027. Renewal depends on the need for an extension and/or securing additional funding. Monthly salary is $4,152.19–$4,940.13, commensurate with experience and qualifications. 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/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 combined and substituted for the educational requirement on a year-for-year basis.
• Proficiency using computers, Google Workspace, and MS Office software programs.
• 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 work collaboratively 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.
• Work 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.

Benefits

• Paid sick leave and vacation leave.
• Paid holidays.
• Medical, dental, life, and disability insurance for employees and dependents.
• Retirement benefits and deferred compensation, with optional supplemental retirement accounts.
• Training and development.
• Employee tuition waiver.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level