Academic Program Specialist, Early College Programs

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Closing Date:

Type of Position:
Professional Staff - Academic Affairs

Workstudy Position:

No

Job Type:
Regular

Work Shift:

Sponsorship Available:

No

Institution Name:
University of Arkansas at Fort Smith

University of Arkansas – Fort Smith

The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith is a dynamic, mid-sized public university that’s redefining higher education. We’re on a mission to provide transformative, hands-on learning experiences for students of all backgrounds and aspirations. Our multi-faceted approach to education offers a wealth of opportunities, with over 70 academic programs, including certificates, associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. We’re committed to building a diverse community that mirrors Arkansas’s rich tapestry, reflecting our dedication to serving the state’s varied population while enhancing the quality of our institution.

As an employer, the University of Arkansas offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance. The benefits package includes university contributions to health, dental, life, and disability insurance, tuition waivers for employees and their families, 12 official holidays, immediate leave accrual, and a choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5 to 10 percent of employee salary.
 

Fort Smith, Arkansas

Nestled along the Arkansas River, this vibrant city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Old West at the Fort Smith National Historic Site, explore the eclectic local art scene, or take a scenic stroll along the picturesque riverfront trails. With a welcoming community, diverse dining options, and a thriving downtown, Fort Smith is the ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking modern amenities.

Thank you for your interest in joining our university. Below you will find details for the position including any supplementary documentation and/or questions you should review before submitting your application. For general application assistance or if you have questions about a job posting, please contact Human Resources at (479) 788-7080.

If you have a disability and need assistance with the hiring process please contact Human Resources at 479-788-7080. Applicants are required to submit a request for each position to which they have applied.

Department:
Academic Affairs / Graduate Studies

Department's Website:

Summary of Job Duties:
The Academic Program Specialist will assist the Director of Early College Programs with recruitment, registration, student success activities and advising of concurrent students. The Academic Program Specialist will serve as a student advocate; work to ensure student success; work with high school counselors; present information to groups and individuals at high schools; maintain student records; assist in scheduling, including competency testing; assist with student orientation activities; and perform other duties as assigned by the Director. This position reports to the Director of Early College Programs. This is a twelve-month position.

Qualifications:

Education & Work Experience:  Bachelor’s degree is required. One (1) year of previous experience in records/registrar’s office, advising, admissions, career services, or other student support areas at a college/university is preferred. Computer skills are necessary. Master’s degree is preferred and prior work with high school students is a plus. Other job related education and/or experience with high school counseling may be substituted for part of the work requirements.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

To perform the job successfully, the following competencies are required for the essential functions of this position:

• Excellent customer service skills
• Excellent telephone and written communication skills
• Ability to successfully function within a fast paced, stressful environment, while maintaining a positive attitude toward students and coworkers
• Accuracy and attention to detail
• Consistent on-time attendance
• Knowledge of FERPA and the highly confidential nature and scope of this position
• Responsible for maintaining a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner to foster teamwork and to provide leadership for subordinates
• Excellent data entry and analysis skills with the ability to access and load student information into multiple student information systems.
• Knowledge of the university’s policies, processes and academic programs
• Strong knowledge of degree programs and course requirements
• Professional demeanor and commitment
• Ability to work with a diverse student population
• Caring attitude and commitment to student academic success

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Consult and collaborate with participating high school counselors and career coaches and faculty for the purpose of program enrollment and registration
• Register and enroll as well as provide orientation and student support for program participants
• Coordinate recruiting, matriculation and collaboration efforts with the Office of Admissions, ROAR First Year Advising Center, and Office of Financial Aid for strategies and activities for first time entering students.
• Assist in recruitment of concurrent students to associate degree pathways
• Address academic alerts for concurrent students through campus system and address student academic concerns/inquiries from counselors, instructors and/or parents/guardians.
• Assist in coordinating student login issues

Other Duties and Responsibilities:

• Other duties as assigned
• Responsible for maintaining a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner to foster teamwork and to provide leadership for subordinates
• Requires frequent public speaking, large and small scale presentations
• Requires some travel to high schools and attendance at local events
• Requires consistent on-time attendance
• This description is not designed to cover a comprehensive listing of activities, duties and responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time, with or without notice

Additional Information:

Working Relationships: Works with a dynamic team of staff in a fast-paced environment focused on customer service. Has daily contact with students, enrollment management staff members, university administrators, faculty, and professional peers, and maintain positive relationships with high school administrators, counselors, and students.

Special Job Dimensions: Work is performed in a professional office setting. Occasional extended walking required (on-campus) for deliveries and errands. Walks and sits for extended periods of time, doing data entry, bends to find materials in files. Occasional overtime required during peak periods. Travel to participating high schools is required.

Salary Information:

$38,000-40,000/year, commensurate with education and experience.

Required Documents to Apply:

Cover Letter/Letter of Application, List of three Professional References (name, email, business title), Resume, Unofficial/Official Transcript(s)

Optional Documents:

Proof of Veteran Status

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Recruitment Contact Information:

Human Resources 479-788-7080

All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Site https://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/UASYS  

Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.

Pre-employment Screening Requirements:
No Background Check Required

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.

The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution. The University does not discriminate in its education programs or activities (including in admission and employment) on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, marital or parental status, protected veteran status, military service, genetic information, or sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity). Federal law prohibits the University from discriminating on these bases. Questions or concerns about the application of Title IX, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, may be sent to the University's Title IX Coordinator and to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.

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.

Constant Physical Activity:
Hearing, Manipulate items with fingers, including keyboarding, Sitting, Standing, Talking, Walking

Frequent Physical Activity:
N/A

Occasional Physical Activity:
N/A

Benefits Eligible:
Yes