TRiO Academic Specialist - Talent Search

Northwest Tri-county Intermediate Unit 5•Millcreek Township, PA

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The TRiO Academic Specialist develops and delivers direct services to program participants and assists the TRiO Supervisor with planning and developing program activities outlined in the proposal. The position reports to the appropriate program Coordinator(s), the TRiO Supervisor, and the Supervisor of Federal and State Programs. This is a temporary contracted position anticipated to end no later than August 31, 2027, averaging 28 hours per week. The position pays $22.66 per hour. The work takes place in a professional office environment and includes travel to IU sites and schools. The role routinely uses standard office equipment, with computers used for most daily tasks. A vehicle and valid driver’s license are required for job-related travel.

Requirements

Degree in counseling, education, social science, or a related field.
Experience working with the target population of disadvantaged youth, including low-income and first-generation students.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
Knowledge of state and federal law affecting operations within the IU.
Flexibility and ability to work with varied situations and personalities.
Ability to sit at a desk for extended periods.
Auditory acuity to listen to people by telephone and in person.
Verbal skills to communicate effectively with the public.
Ability to use Microsoft Office, Outlook, and social media products, and interest in increasing computer literacy and technology skills.
Ability to withstand emotional stress.
Ability to travel to and from IU sites and schools; a vehicle and valid driver’s license are required for job-related duties, meetings, seminars, and trainings.

Nice To Haves

First-hand knowledge and experience overcoming disadvantages of circumstances similar to those of the population in the target area.
A master’s degree or three years of experience.

Responsibilities

Plan and carry out assigned duties effectively and in an organized manner; maintain accurate records.
Collect, analyze, and update data, and compile evaluation and other reports.
Act as a resource consultant to guidance counselors and maintain regular contact with school personnel regarding student progress and program needs.
Provide career and post-secondary information to participants individually and in groups, with emphasis on STEM and financial literacy.
Plan and implement routine or special events for participants, parents, and school personnel, such as recruitment sessions, orientations, career and motivational speaker events, post-secondary or industry visits, and financial aid workshops.
Establish liaisons with target secondary school personnel, post-secondary institutions, community agencies, parents, and the work community; assist with the program’s public relations efforts.
Evaluate participant progress, identify needs, and complete files and records in accordance with program and funding-source requirements.
Learn and use Blumen student documentation software, including generating reports to support student and program monitoring.
Learn the scope and purpose of the legislation and regulations governing TRiO Programs and serve as an ombudsman on behalf of participants.
Maintain knowledge of post-secondary admission procedures, requirements, majors, costs, and financial aid; assist participants with admissions, financial aid, and other forms as needed.
Follow up with secondary schools to monitor academic progress and document admission and enrollment progress of college-ready participants.
Supervise mentors and tutors during academic sessions with students.
Perform other duties as assigned by the TRiO Supervisor and others in the line of authority.