Retention Advisor-Student Support Services

University of Arkansas System • Fort Smith, AR

5d • Onsite

About The Position

Position Summary: The retention advisor is responsible for assisting with the recruitment and selection of program participants. The retention advisor assists in the tracking, advising and monitoring of SSS participant progress through graduation. The position is governed by the policies of the institution. Student Support Services is funded through the Department of Education. The position reports to Director – TRIO Student Support Services.

Requirements

• Minimum bachelor’s degree with related experience in education, academic and career advisement, or teaching with knowledge of retention strategies; experience in higher education setting.
• Other job related education and/or experience may be substituted for part of these requirements.
• Experience in career and academic advisement for students.
• Experience in implementing enrichment programs.
• Demonstrated oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Knowledge of remedial/basic core curriculum and tutorial support.
• Ability to articulate to and deal positively with diverse populations.
• Organizational and detail skills.
• Criminal background check; Arkansas Mandated Reporters training; and MVR (motor vehicle registry) required for this position.

Nice To Haves

• Experience and knowledge preferred in working with low income individuals, academic needs assessment, and organizing events and workshops.
• Master’s degree preferred.
• Preference will be given for experience with TRIO or federal grant programs.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the recruitment and selection of participants.
• Assist with developing academic progress plan contracts and monitoring student progress including degree plans and graduation checks.
• Provide academic coaching support for participants in course selection/registration.
• Coordinate and lead the Peer Mentor Program by selecting and training Mentors, planning events, and fostering connections between the Mentors and incoming freshmen.
• Assist with planning/coordinating the enrichment programs to promote an institutional climate conducive to persistence in and graduation from a postsecondary institution.
• Document all activities and results on participants for program reports.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Responsible for maintaining a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner to foster teamwork and by providing leadership to subordinates.
• Requires consistent on-time attendance.

Benefits

• university contributions to health, dental, life, and disability insurance
• tuition waivers for employees and their families
• 12 official holidays
• immediate leave accrual
• choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5 to 10 percent of employee salary

What This Job Offers

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