Program Manager/Academic Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

The Program Manager/Academic Specialist will perform program-specific and academic support duties for the TRIO-Student Support Services (SSS) program. This is a full-time, 12-month position, dependent upon yearly renewal of the federal grant. This position works as a member of a team committed to student success. Reporting to the Director, the Program Manager/Academic Specialist is responsible for the programmatic and operational aspect of the program. The position will oversee day-to-day administration and will create and maintain systems to ensure effective operation of the program. Additionally, the position will be responsible for student outreach, advocacy, academic support, and work to meet students’ needs to help increase persistence, retention, and graduation rates.

Essential Functions:

• Plan, implement, and support programs, policies, and procedures that foster academic success, career readiness, financial literacy, and graduate school preparation.
• Provide tutoring, basic skills instruction, academic advising, financial aid/literacy support, and/or graduate school counseling as needed for a caseload of students.
• Counsel students on general education and major requirements for graduation.
• Provide academic counseling to students on academic probation.
• Develop, implement, and supervise annual program initiatives, including workshops and educational/social/cultural events, trips, and other opportunities.
• Maintain current knowledge of university systems, curriculum, rules, regulations, and guidelines applicable to students; assist and support students in navigating the university environment.
• Maintain student database, filing system and documentation for government reports and requirements and confidential records to ensure program efficiency.
• Conduct research and planning necessary to assist with program evaluation, assessment, and annual reports.
• Review program initiatives/policies/procedures to ensure that federal and university protocols are followed.
• Update forms, create flyers, and prepare other print/electronic materials as needed.
• Promote a welcoming office environment and assist students and visitors.
• Assist with all activities, including commencement celebration and honor society induction.
• Assist with campus-wide activities, including open house and new student orientation.
• Attend conferences and training to update professional skills and knowledge of program regulations.
• Integrate the Mercy Core Values of respect, integrity, justice, compassion, and service in all aspects of daily job functions and interactions with faculty, staff, and students.
• Perform other duties as needed and assigned.

Miscellaneous/secondary responsibilities that are sometimes involved in this job:

• Represent TRIO-SSS at campus/non-campus events as needed.
• Represent TRIO-SSS on campus-wide committees as needed.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Counseling, Higher Education, Social Science, Social Work, Student Affairs, or related field required. Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of two (2) years of full-time professional experience in education, student services, social work, or related field required.
• Experience in management, coordinating or similar positions that require excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, accuracy, and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Clear evidence of sensitivity to and understanding of the academic, socioeconomic, cultural, and accessibility backgrounds of target student population. Experience working with diverse populations is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability in tutoring, academic advising, and success counseling.
• Demonstrated ability to positively interact and engage with students in an academic setting that is welcoming and responsive to students’ academic, personal and career goals.
• TRIO graduate or prior experience with a support/opportunity program in higher education is desirable.
• Excellent listening, interpersonal, social interaction, and communication (written and verbal) skills.
• Highly motivated with the ability to deliver excellent interactive customer service.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
• Ability to establish and maintain collaborative relationships within the university environment.
• Excellent computer skills (Microsoft Office, internet, email, database application management, etc.); aptitude for learning new software; knowledge of relational database applications (i.e. Student Access, PowerCampus, etc.) is a plus; proficiency with social media is desirable.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule. Some evenings and weekends are required.

**MUST BE US WORK AUTHORIZED**