Project/Program Specialist

University of Arkansas System

1d•$42,000 - $50,000

About The Position

The Academic Coordinator supports the mission and goals of the TRIO Upward Bound Program by providing academic guidance, college preparation, and program coordination to help participants successfully complete high school, enroll in postsecondary education, and persist toward degree completion. This role is instrumental in developing, implementing, and evaluating educational services that align with federal TRIO regulations and institutional objectives. The Academic Coordinator builds and maintains strong partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders, including school officials, community leaders, business partners, and diverse populations such as high school students, veterans, adults, and individuals experiencing housing insecurity. Candidates must be comfortable engaging clients through virtual platforms, in-person meetings, and phone communication. This position requires a highly motivated self-starter who thrives in a flexible, fast-paced environment. The Academic Coordinator must be willing to work nontraditional hours, travel to partner sites, and operate independently while contributing to a collaborative team. Success in this role requires innovative problem-solving, strong organizational skills, and the initiative to recruit participants and meet program goals.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Education, Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or related field.
At least two (2) years of experience working with low-income, first-generation, or underrepresented youth in an academic or counseling setting.
Demonstrated knowledge of secondary and post-secondary academic requirements, financial aid processes, and student support best practices
Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and summer residential programming as required.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in Education, Counseling, or related discipline.
Previous experience working in federally funded TRIO program (Upward Bound, Talent Search, or similar)
Proficiency with student date management systems (Blumen, Student Access or equivalent).

Responsibilities

Provide individual and group academic advising to program participants regarding course selection, high school graduation requirements, and college readiness benchmarks.
Monitor student grades, attendance, and progress reports to identify academic or behavioral concerns.
Develop and implement intervention plans for students at risk of academic failure.
Maintain accurate student records in accordance with TRIO, EDGAR, and institutional compliance requirements.
Coordinate academic enrichment activities including tutoring, study sessions, and Saturday Academy workshops.
Assist in planning and implementing the Summer Academic Enrichment Program, including class schedules, faculty recruitment, and instructional materials.
Collaborate with instructors to ensure curriculum alignment with program goals and college-readiness standards.
Incorporate culturally responsive and inclusive teaching practices in all student engagement.
Organize college tours, career exploration events, and standardized test preparation (ACT, SAT, etc.).
Guide students through the college application and financial aid process (FAFSA, scholarships, essays, and letters of recommendation).
Facilitate workshops on study skills, time management, leadership, and professional etiquette.
Support the development of Individual Success Plans for each participant.
Contribute to the completion of the Annual Performance Report (APR) and ensure data integrity for all assigned participants.
Assist with recruitment, eligibility screening, and documentation of new participants.
Maintain compliance with U.S. Department of Education TRIO Upward Bound regulations (34 CFR Part 645) and institutional policies.
Support program publicity, communication, and community outreach initiatives.
Supervise and mentor tutors, teaching assistants, and peer mentors during the academic year and summer program.
Provide training and performance feedback to ensure high-quality instruction and mentoring services.
Coordinate transportation, meals, and activity logistics for program events and trips.