Retention Advisor, Student Support Services STEM

Posting Details

Posting Number NC00133P Quick Link for Position https://jobs.uafs.edu/postings/1687 Working Title Retention Advisor, Student Support Services STEM Position Number 21-26-0018 Department TRIO Student Support Services About the University

For more than 6,000 students each semester, the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith offers a dynamic and diverse learning community with a student-centered approach focused on the success of the individual. Small class sizes combine with innovative, hands-on learning and research experiences alongside expert faculty to ensure students receive a future-focused education at the most affordable tuition rate in the state. The university has undergone significant changes since its founding in 1928 and now offers 51 bachelor’s and associate degrees, two master’s degrees, and 36 certificate programs, all aimed at preparing students for success in the global workforce. UAFS is one of 21 academic institutions and affiliates governed by the University of Arkansas System.

The second-largest city in the state, Fort Smith is located on the Arkansas-Oklahoma border in the heart of the Arkansas River Valley. Established in 1817 as a frontier military post, Fort Smith is now a vibrant and growing city featuring a variety of cultural activities and entertainment options, including a thriving downtown arts and entertainment district. Outdoors enthusiasts will appreciate the Natural State’s plentiful trails, mountains, forests, parks, and waterways, both within city limits and throughout the surrounding area. The city is also within easy driving distance of Tulsa, Kansas City, Dallas, Oklahoma City, Little Rock, and Memphis.

The UAFS campus is comprised of 77 buildings and facilities located on 170 beautifully manicured acres and crowned with the Donald W. Reynolds Campus Plaza, Tower, and Campus Green. Students who choose to live on campus may do so in one of two residence hall complexes, complete with a full-service dining center, or the on-campus apartment complex for married students and upperclassmen. Campus involvement is encouraged by participation in more than 100 registered student organizations, which includes academic societies, a dynamic Greek life system, intramural sports, and cultural/special interest groups. The UAFS Lions compete in NCAA Division II Lonestar Conference in men’s baseball, women’s volleyball, and men’s and women’s basketball, golf, cross country, and tennis.

About the College / Department

The Student Support Services STEM program is funded through the Department of Education and serves 120 STEM and Health Science students on the UAFS campus. The purpose of the program is to provide opportunities for academic development and motivate students toward the successful completion of their postsecondary education. The goal of SSS is to increase college retention and graduation rates of participants.

Position Summary

Will assist with the recruitment and selection of program participants, and track, advise, and monitor Student Support Services ( SSS ) participants progress through their 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 – Student Support Services STEM .

Summary of Job Duties

• 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.
• Develop and implement workshops that meet the needs of program participants to increase retention and graduation rates.
• 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.
• Responsible for maintaining a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner to foster teamwork. Requires consistent on-time attendance.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Related experience in education, academic and career advisement, or teaching with knowledge of retention strategies.
• Two years’ experience in higher education setting.
• Other job related education and/or experience may be substituted for part of these requirements.

Please ensure that all relevant application materials include details addressing the minimum qualifications. Applicants not meeting the minimum qualifications will be disqualified from consideration.

License(s)/Certifications Preferred Qualifications

• 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.
• Preference will be given to individuals who are former SSS participants or who have overcome barriers similar to the SSS student population.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

To perform the job successfully, the following competencies are required for the essential functions of this position:
• Knowledge of remedial/basic core curriculum and tutorial support.
• Knowledge of career and academic advisement for students.
• Knowledge of implementing enrichment programs.
• Demonstrated oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to articulate to and deal positively with diverse populations.
• Organizational and detail-oriented skills.

Special Job Dimensions

Work performed primarily in an office setting. Hours vary depending on the participant need. Extended hours are occasionally required. While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly exhibits digital dexterity when entering data into computer. The employee frequently sits for extended periods of time, and occasionally stands and walks. Vision demands include close, relatively detailed vision when focusing on a computer screen. Employee regularly talks and hears. Employee occasionally lifts items up to 10 pounds.

Work Schedule

Routine office hours 8:00 a.m.to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Hours vary depending on the participant need. Extended hours are occasionally required.

Salary Low to Mid $30's Benefits

Competitive benefits package.

Background Check / Pre-Employment Screening

This position may be subject to a pre-employment criminal background check, sex offender registry check, financial history background check, and/or drug screening. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication and/or adverse financial history alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background checks and drug screening information will be used in a confidential, non- discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

Does this position require a background check? Criminal Background Check and Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) Check. Position requires employee complete Arkansas Mandated Reporter training prior to employment.
Open Date 11/20/2020 Close Date 01/04/2021 Open Until Filled No Special Instructions to Applicants Anticipated start date EEO Statement

The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution, dedicated to attracting and supporting diverse student, faculty, and staff populations. The University welcomes applications without regard to race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit based factors. Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment. All applicant information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.

UA Fort Smith provides equal employment, admission, and educational opportunities without regard to race, color, gender, age, national origin, religion, disability, veterans’ status, sexual orientation, or gender identify. The University abides by all applicable employment laws.

As an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, the University is committed to provide equal employment opportunities for all applicants and employees with regard to recruitment, hiring, transfer, promotion, compensation, training, fringe benefits and all other aspects of employment.

Applicant Documents
Required Documents

1. Resume
2. Cover Letter
3. Unofficial College Transcripts

Optional Documents

1. Related Certifications
2. Proof of Veteran Status

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

1. * Do you understand that failure to complete the Employment History section of the application will result in automatic elimination?
   • Yes
   • No
2. * Did you complete the Employment History section of the application?
   • Yes
   • No
3. * Do you understand that failure to upload your unofficial transcript(s) may result in an incomplete application packet?
   • Yes
   • No
4. * Did you upload your unofficial transcript(s)?
   • Yes
   • No
5. * Have you ever been fired or asked to resign from a job?
   • Yes
   • No
6. If yes, please describe.
   
   (Open Ended Question)
   
   
7. * How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
   
   (Open Ended Question)