Talent Search Advisor

As a member of the TS administrative team, the TS advisor provides academic support and college access services to program participants in assigned schools. The advisor performs assigned administrative functions related to the purpose and objectives of the program. This federally funded position reports to the TS assistant director in the Pre-College Programs Department. 

Assume responsibility for individual and group meetings, events, and field trips for students at assigned schools:

• Assist with TS program participant recruitment and selection
• Review, adapt, and present TS college access curriculum to participants at assigned schools
• Monitor and record participant progress toward project objectives
• Travel to Des Moines Public Schools to provide academic, personal, and group advising for participants 1-2 days a week during the academic year
• Provide leadership, supervision, and accountability during TS events and field trips to ensure student well-being and event success
• Serve as advocate for participant needs at the target school by promoting tutoring opportunities, registration in rigorous coursework, etc.

Actively participate in program planning and professional development within the pre-college programs department and as a member of the TS team:

• Attend staff meetings, workshops, and professional development activities
• Support planning and implementation of field trips and events

Maintain open and positive communication with parents of participants in assigned schools:

• Assist with basic planning for and attend parent information sessions for participants
• Make parent contacts to provide college access and financial aid information or to offer additional assistance as necessary or as requested by the project director or assistant director
• Participate in school conferences, open houses, and other school events

Maintain open and positive communication with target school personnel to secure/ensure:

• Space and times for meetings, access to students, compliance with target school policies and practices
• Mutual exchange of Information regarding participants’ progress

Maintain accurate, timely paper and electronic records as required by the grant or as requested by the director or assistant director:

• Keep accurate records of student participation and progress
• Accurately enter related data into program database in a timely fashion
• Maintain accurate up-to-date records of personal time and effort

Note: This position may require occasional evening and weekend hours.

General responsibilities

• Maintain confidentiality with respect to participants’ academic and personal information.
• Demonstrate commitment to personal professional growth. 
• Consistently demonstrate a positive attitude.
• Must be open and adaptable to change.
• Must work cooperatively and respectfully with others.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s Degree
• One to two years of experience in education, student development, counseling, or related field 
• Must possess excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills
• Driver’s license required - this position requires regular travel to assigned target schools

Preferred Qualifications:

• Two years or more of experience in education, student development, counseling, or related field.
• Knowledge/experience with student financial aid, FAFSA, scholarship applications and/or college admissions
• Experience organizing/managing events and field trips involving large groups 

Central College Brand Expectations  

• Demonstrate a network of caring relationships by showing respect for others, being dependable and promoting cooperation with others in the work environment.
• Be your best self by being accountable for responsibilities, adapting well to change and maintaining the highest standards of business ethics.
• Perform job responsibilities on campus to support the residential college environment
• Strive to perform as effectively as possible while maintaining a high level of quality and promoting personal growth and development.
• Respect and comply with college rules and policies, including participation in required training courses; report any suspected violations of the Title IX policy to the Title IX Coordinator.