Advising Specialist, Advising & Career Services

McLennan Community College • Waco, TX

50d

About The Position

This position supports student success by assisting students in setting and achieving educational and career goals while providing ongoing encouragement and guidance. The department offers services such as academic advising, career services and planning, and educational pathway development to promote student completion. This position receives general direction from the Lead Advising Specialist and exercises no supervision. NOTE: This is a security sensitive position and an appropriate background investigation will be made on applicants being strongly considered for this position.

Requirements

• Knowledge of student development theory and strategies that promote student success
• Knowledge of academic advising and career coaching methodologies
• Knowledge of general requirements of educational systems and transfer pathways
• Knowledge of college admissions standards and program completion requirements
• Knowledge of institutional policies, procedures, and applicable federal and state regulations
• Knowledge of standardized testing and assessment interpretation
• Knowledge of basic computer software and student information systems
• Skills in planning and implementing comprehensive career services initiatives, including workshops, classroom presentations, career fairs, and individualized coaching using tools
• Skills in establishing supportive and inclusive relationships with students and colleagues
• Skills in communicating clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing
• Skills in practicing active listening to understand and respect diverse perspectives
• Skills in solving problems equitably in collaboration with students and colleagues
• Skills in adapting services and responses to meet evolving student needs
• Skills in managing time effectively and handling multiple tasks simultaneously
• Skills in leading with professionalism, integrity, and sound judgment
• Ability to advise students on course selection and degree planning aligned with career goals
• Ability to interpret academic records, placement tests, and other standardized assessments
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion
• Ability to build collaborative and caring relationships while maintaining appropriate boundaries
• Ability to communicate assertively and compassionately in a student-centered environment
• Ability to evaluate individual student needs and connect them with appropriate resources and support
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
• More than two years of work experience

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree from an accredited college or university
• Work experience in higher education, student services, academic support, career coaching, or closely related field

Responsibilities

• Advise students on course selection and degree planning aligned with career goals
• Interpret academic records, placement tests, and other standardized assessments
• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion
• Build collaborative and caring relationships while maintaining appropriate boundaries
• Communicate assertively and compassionately in a student-centered environment
• Evaluate individual student needs and connect them with appropriate resources and support

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services