Student Success Specialist

The Student Success Specialist plays a vital role in supporting youth enrolled in NAYA’s Learning Center and College and Career Center programs. This position focuses on fostering academic growth, decreasing barriers to education, and oversees the consistent intake and enrollment for both programs and helps maintain data accuracy by monitoring entries for consistency and completeness, and collaborating with team members to address any discrepancies or gaps. A key responsibility is introducing 8th-grade students to the College and Career Center, helping them transition into the program that serves youth from 9th grade through age 24. Additionally, the Education Program Specialist leads literacy programming to enhance students' reading and writing skills and is responsible for transporting youth to and from the NAYA Family Center.

NAYA offers an exceptional benefits package, including free medical, dental and vision insurance for employees (and affordable care for family members), 401(k) retirement plan with 6% match, paid vacation and paid holidays. This is a full-time role with work hours of 10 am to 7 pm with a one hour unpaid lunch. Pay for this position is $25/hour.

Who You Are

• You have a high school diploma or equivalent; an associate’s degree or higher is preferred.
• You have at least six months of experience providing academic support or mentoring services.
• Ideally, you have lived or professional experience working with diverse populations, particularly within Native American communities.
• You bring knowledge of Native American history and an understanding of the urban Native American experience (preferred).
• You maintain composure in high-tension situations, helping others re-regulate and fostering a calm, steady environment.
• You thrive in a team-oriented workplace, are adaptable, and are willing to roll up your sleeves and pitch in, even when it’s not your job.
• You possess strong communication skills, engaging effectively with diverse groups and adapting to varied contexts.
• You demonstrate self-awareness, listening deeply, centering others, and taking accountability for your actions.
• You are consistently punctual, reliable, and dependable in support of your team and clients.
• You are proficient in computer skills, including web-based research, word processing, MS Excel, and database management.
• You hold or can obtain certifications in CPR, First Aid, and AED.

What You'll Do

• Provide engaging afterschool tutoring that enhances youth participation and academic development
• Lead literacy programming activities using age-appropriate resources and personalized support to improve students' reading and writing skills
• Collaborate with staff to integrate literacy goals and systematically track student progress
• Guide 8th-grade students through program transition, introducing comprehensive college and career readiness resources
• Build meaningful relationships to foster continuous student engagement as they progress through the program
• Support transportation to College Nights and related events to ensure consistent student participation
• Manage intake and enrollment processes for both Learning Center and College and Career Center, creating a seamless entry point for students and families
• Serve as the primary point of contact for student and family inquiries during enrollment, providing clear guidance and support
• Maintain data accuracy through consistent review and collaborative problem-solving across program databases
• Plan and coordinate special events, workshops, and family nights that enhance program visibility and student opportunities
• Gather and share student and family program feedback to continuously improve program effectiveness
• Coordinate program activity schedules to ensure smooth and efficient program operations
• Maintain vehicle logs, conduct inspections, and manage program-related transportation to support student access
• Input and track client data in various database systems to support program reporting and strategic planning
• Represent NAYA Family Center professionally at community events, expanding program reach and community engagement

Read the full job description .

Application Instructions
Providing a cover letter helps us best understand your interest in the role, so we encourage you to submit one along with your resume. If you need accommodation during the application process, please email jobs@nayapdx.org.

Questions? Contact Auna Castellon, College and Career Readiness Manager, or Kennedy Coopwood, HR Partner and Recruiter.

NAYA is committed to building a work environment that respects and inspires every community member. Our mission is to serve Urban Native youth and families, so we strongly encourage members of the Native community to apply. We encourage applications from members of other historically marginalized groups, as well, including women, people of color, those with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ community, and those who have served in the military.