Retention Specialist

California State University•Carson, CA

1d•$5,540 - $7,893

About The Position

Under the general direction of the Student Success Director, the Retention Specialist provides solution-centered recommendations in support of campus and system-wide retention initiatives. The role supports the strategic retention program and the mission of the Student Success Center, College of Business Administration and Public Policy, and University. The incumbent researches and develops programming related to students’ progress toward graduation, provides academic advising to a caseload of students with varied issues that may affect academic advancement, and collaborates with student success teams to collect, analyze, and compile data for developing and reviewing strategies and success indicators.

Requirements

Equivalent to graduation from a four-year college or university in a related field, including or supplemented by upper-division or graduate coursework in job-related counseling techniques, interviewing, and conflict resolution.
Three years of progressively responsible professional student services work experience, or qualifying degree substitution as described in the posting.
Thorough knowledge of asset-based, equity-centered advising approaches for individuals and groups.
Ability to analyze complex situations accurately and adopt effective courses of action.
Ability to advise students individually and in groups on complex student-related matters using culturally responsive, asset-based, and equity-centered approaches.
Ability to analyze and define problems, draw valid conclusions, and project the consequences of alternative courses of action.
Ability to maintain effective working relationships with a diverse student body, faculty, staff, and the general public.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual or multilingual skills are desirable.
One year of experience in the assigned program area is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Research, identify, and develop retention programming that helps students develop a sense of belonging and academic identity and explore their strengths, interests, and passions.
Use technology to monitor student data and faculty feedback, proactively support students, and develop retention programs and initiatives designed to close equity gaps and achieve student success outcomes.
Work with academic departments and faculty mentors to support the use and integration of the early alert system for first-year students.
Advise a caseload of students through significant and frequent advising opportunities, make decisions in individual cases to resolve student problems, and track each student cohort to support efficient degree completion.
Work with the college-based student success team to ensure data is entered, maintained, and used to develop effective strategies and interventions.