College & Career Readiness Advisor

Under the direction of the Director of Career Readiness, we are seeking a dedicated and dynamic individual to serve as a College, and Career Readiness Advisor. This role involves co-advising with representatives from higher education and other rural advisory partners, students, schools, and families. This new structure provides resources to empower students in these rural and remote communities to succeed in their post-secondary education and career pursuits.

Salary: 

The full annual salary range is $53,911.05 - $65,587.01. Offers are made at the entry level of the range and will be prorated to your start date. 

Assignment:

The ideal candidate will possess empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a passion for helping students achieve their full potential despite geographical barriers. This position is grant funded, for three anticipated years. Further employment beyond the grant period is contingent on overall project performance. A majority of the work day will be spent at the assigned high school. The position will be 40 hours per week, 210 days per year, and will support students at Castle Rock School District. 

A complete application will include:

1. Work history going back 10 years (if applicable)
2. At least three professional reference's contact information
3. A Cover Letter expressing interest in the position
4. A Resume that reflects work experience listed on application
5. Evidence of an Associate's degree or higher (unofficial transcripts or copy of diploma)

Essential Functions:

1. Assist students in completing their High School and Beyond Plan to document exploration of college, vocational, and training options that align with their interests, abilities, and goals. 
2. Support students in the selection of high school course sequences, including Career and Technical courses, while clarifying and navigating the dual credit system. Provide personalized support through direct classroom instruction, and before-school and after-school programming. 
3. Develop and implement career readiness programs tailored to students in rural and remote settings. Collaborate with local businesses, organizations, and community leaders to create career exploration activities such as guest speakers, developing career fairs, assisting with resume writing/cover letters/ interviewing skills, and providing opportunities for job shadows and internships. 
4. Conduct family-focused workshops and seminars on college affordability, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities. Provide learning sessions on Labor Market data and projected trends.  Directly support students in the completion of the FAFSA/WASFA.
5. Collaborate with higher education liaisons, other specialists and the ESD 112 Career Readiness team. 
6. Participate in professional learning groups locally and throughout the state. 
7. Compile and maintain a database of scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities accessible to rural students. Utilize technology to bridge gaps in access to educational resources and information. 
8. Collect and analyze student postsecondary readiness data at the school level.

Other Functions:

1. Advocate for student needs and assist in navigating challenges unique to rural and remote environments.
2. Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

1. Associate’s degree or higher in education, counseling, social work, or a related field.
2. Two years experience working in K12 schools or other educational settings, preferably in rural or remote communities.
3. Demonstrated familiarity with a variety of postsecondary options, financial aid literacy, and career development strategies.
4. Experience in facilitating workshops and meetings and adapting communication style to engage diverse groups of students, parents, and stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree in education, counseling or related field.
2. Previous experience in project management, preferably in an educational setting.
3. Experience working with diverse, rural populations.

Working Conditions:

1. Frequent travel across the ESD112 region and the state. 
2. This is a hybrid position with 80% of time spent in assigned high schools.

Employment Requirements: 

1. Successful completion of a criminal history background check through the Washington State Patrol.

Salary : $53,911 - $65,587