Lead Retention Specialist, TRIO

Location: San Antonio, TX
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Job ID: 13061
Full/Part Time: Full Time

Org Marketing Statement

The University of Texas at San Antonio is a Tier One research university and a Hispanic Serving Institution specializing in cybersecurity, health, fundamental futures, and social-economic transformation. With more than 35,000 students, it is the largest university in the San Antonio region. UTSA advances knowledge through research and discovery, teaching and learning, community engagement and public service, and with an intentional focus on career readiness the university produces more graduates for the workforce than any other institution in the region. It is a catalyst for socioeconomic development and the commercialization of intellectual property - for Texas, the nation and the world. UTSA has been recognized as a Top Employer in Texas by Forbes Magazine. Learn more online, on UTSA Today or on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, YouTube or LinkedIn.

In 2024, the UT System Board of Regents authorized UT System to begin integrating UTSA and UT Health San Antonio into one unified institution, establishing a world-class university that integrates academic, research, and clinical excellence to build a profoundly impactful university of the future. Driven by a vision for growth and impact, this merger will expand capacity to offer robust undergraduate and graduate programs, attract top-tier faculty and staff, develop innovative initiatives, and elevate transdisciplinary research to address the evolving needs of the region.

Posting End Date: Applications will be accepted through 11:59 PM CDT on Monday, 2/17/2025. At the discretion of the hiring department, this position posting may close once a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received.

Salary Range: Up to $40,000- $46,000 annualized, commensurate with education, experience and qualifications.

Hours: up to 40 hours per week, exempt.

Required Application Materials:

• Resume and cover letter are required.
2-3 references are required.

Essential Functions

Job Summary

Supports the academic pursuit of all Talent Search participants with particular emphasis on retention, academic intervention, support, and outreach.

This is a grant-funded position dependent on availability of funds and departmental need.

Core Responsibilities

• Develop and implement retention services at the school site by following up on existing initiatives and identifying new outreach opportunities.
• Work in a team environment with the Project Director and Retention Specialists to promote student academic success.
• Collaborate with High School Counselors and educators to determine an effective academic plan for Talent Search Participants.
• Develop and Conduct workshop specifically designed to introduce student to college success techniques.
• Review student records for retention issues; follow up on progress through personal contact and correspondence.
• Coach student through academic barriers that are preventing them from progressing towards high school graduation.
• Provide intentional effective support services at the high school and enrolling at a postsecondary institution immediately after graduation.
• Coordinates referrals to appropriate offices, to resolve individual student challenges.
• Document and track student issues.
• Implement Program's Satisfactory Academic Progress policies and procedures.
• Collaborate with High School Registrar, teachers, high school counselors and students with course registration process.
• Assist Retention Specialist and Project Director with the planning and delivery of academic and summer orientation.
• Collaborate with Project Director and Retention Specialist in developing and executing the Talent Search Summer Academic Institute.
• Maintain accurate student records and contact via student database system.
• Assist Project Director with Annual Performance Report.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Counseling, or related field.
• Valid driver's license or ability to obtain one by first day of employment.
• Three years of experience in TRIO programs or similar programs OR three years of experience teaching, advising, and/or counseling at the secondary or post-secondary level.
• One year of experience in each of the following:
  • Academic and career advising.
  • Working with a broad student population and applying academic intervention strategies including intrusive monitoring, early outreach, and academic survival techniques.
  • Providing direct case management services to secondary school students.
  • Developing and facilitating workshops.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Computer and standard office equipment.
• Ability to work with sensitive information and to maintain the highest level of confidentiality.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Additional Information

• UTSA is a tobacco free campus.
• This is a security sensitive position. Employment is contingent upon a successful background check.
• Applicants selected must be able to show proof of eligibility to work in the United States by time of hire.
• Valid driver's license and Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) as applicable.

Working Conditions

• Will primarily work at target school sites in Northside ISD during academic year.
• Will primarily work at UTSA Downtown Campus during summer months.
• Some evening and weekend work will be required.

Physical Demands:

• Sedentary work; sitting most of the time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required, only occasionally.
• Exerts up to 10 lbs. of force occasionally.

This position will be primarily located on campus. Travel and parking expenses are the employee's responsibility.

Equal Employment Opportunity

As an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer, it is the policy of The University of Texas at San Antonio to promote and ensure equal employment opportunity for all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability or genetic information, and veteran status. The University is committed to the Affirmative Action Program in compliance with all government requirements to ensure nondiscrimination. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply. UTSA campuses are accessible to persons with disabilities.