Academic Specialist | Highland Middle School | (Cowiche, 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 Highland Middle School in Cowiche, 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 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, on-site position with a 12-month position term. It is expected to end September 30, 2027; renewal depends on the need for an extension and/or additional funding. The monthly salary range is $4,152.19–$4,940.13, with placement based on relevant experience, education, skills, and abilities. WSU provides a benefits package that includes paid sick and vacation leave, paid holidays, medical, dental, life and disability insurance for employees and dependents, retirement and deferred compensation options, training and development, and an employee tuition waiver.

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 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 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.
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.