Coordinator, Talent Search

Job Summary

Educational Talent Search is a TRIO Program funded by the United States Department of Education. The program is currently funded to serve 500 students in grades 6-12 from four target schools in the School District of Lee County and works with key personnel at these schools. The Coordinator, Talent Search assists in the development and implementation of program activities and initiatives geared to low-income, first generation, or academically disadvantaged high school and middle school students. Responsible for college and career exploration, assistance with completing college and financial aid applications, secondary and post-secondary course selection, assistance with the college course registration process, and resolution of individual academic issues. Ensure compliance with Federal TRIO Program regulations and guidelines.

Florida Gulf Coast University is committed to establishing and maintaining an inclusive working and learning environment in which students, faculty, administrators, staff, curriculum, social activities, governance, and all other aspects of the campus life reflect a diverse, multi-cultural, and international worldview.

At FGCU, we prohibit any form of racism, discrimination, intolerance, hate expressions, or disrespect. We are committed to preparing students to understand, live among, appreciate, and work in an inherently diverse country and world made up of people with different ethnic and racial backgrounds, religious beliefs, abilities, ages, gender identities, sexual orientations, socio-economic status, cultural traditions, family statuses, and military backgrounds. FGCU strives to hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds, not just because it is the right thing to do, but because it makes our university stronger. The University community recognizes the importance of a diverse and inclusive institution and holds these ideals as paramount for the current and future success of the institution.

We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply for this position as we believe that our university will grow and move forward through a commitment to equality for all.

Job Description

Typical duties may include but are not limited to:

• Provides progressive, one-on-one advising for college and career planning, college selection, financial aid application, scholarship applications and college admission applications.
• Coordinates recruitment activities for new program participants, conducts intake interviews, determines eligibility, and assesses participant needs. Maintains a caseload of 250 participants.
• Organizes daily and weekly tutoring sessions, career and college exploration activities, ACT/SAT preparation, and other related activities within the target schools.
• Oversees and organizes group workshops, participant orientations, college tours, two summer camps and other events and activities.
• Builds and maintains relationships with local target schools as well as establishes relationships and collaborates with other organizations hosting TRIO programs or programs with first generation college students or at-risk students.
• Collects and analyzes data on activities and events to assess and report on program participation and effectiveness. Prepares monthly reports, presentations and proposals.
• Disseminates information on educational and career opportunities to program participants, parents, and interested stakeholders.
• Conducts exit interviews with all participants and program withdrawals.
• Assists with the development and revision of policies and procedures for the Talent Search program.

Other Duties:

• Other job-related duties as assigned.
• Stays abreast of, and adheres to school district policies and procedures.
• Assists in creating flyers, brochures, electronic presentations, and social media content to promote a positive image of the program and its participants.
• Assists with fiscal expenditures by adhering to guidelines of the Talent Search grant in accordance with the Federal Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR) and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).

Additional Job Description

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in Education, School Personnel, Guidance and Counseling, Human Services, or closely related field.
• Two years of full-time, professional experience working with programs for disadvantaged youth, TRIO programs, or those serving first generation college students.
• Any appropriate combination of relevant education, experience, and/or certifications may be considered.
• Experience operating a personal computer and proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Outlook).
• Valid driver’s license and the ability to travel between four assigned Lee County schools, Florida Gulf Coast University, and other locations to attend meetings or programs.
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree from an accredited institution in Education, School Personnel, Guidance and Counseling, Human Services, or related field.
• Experience in career and college exploration with post-secondary students.
• Bilingual in Spanish or Creole.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of federal, state and local laws, statutes, regulations, codes, and standards related to the area of responsibility.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and an ability to prioritize and complete simultaneous projects within deadlines.
• Skill in public speaking and delivering presentations to individuals and groups.
• Ability to interpret and apply laws, regulations, policies and procedures consistently.
• Ability to gather data, maintain records, and prepare reports and other written materials.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and discretion at all times.
• Ability to work successfully as both a member of a team and independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to think critically and make clear, well-reasoned and timely decisions.
• Ability to interact in a professional manner with a diverse group of staff, faculty, students and the community in a service-oriented environment.
• Ability to thrive in an organization that values the diversity of its student body and workforce and actively promotes an equitable environment.

Pay Grade: 14

Applications received prior to June 16 th, 2023 , will be given priority consideration.

This is a grant funded position through 2026. Employment following the conclusion of the grant is contingent upon a secured source of funding and is not guaranteed.

FGCU is an EOE AA /F/Vet/Disability Employer.