Educational Talent Search Advisor

Job Title: Educational Talent Search Advisor Department: TRIO – Educational Talent

Search

Reports to: TRIO Deputy Director Effective Date:

Salary: $50,000.00 Job Type: Full-Time (Exempt)

Job Summary:

The Educational Talent Search Advisor supports the implementation and administration of the

U.S. Department of Education-funded Educational Talent Search/TRIO program, focusing on

advising eligible middle and high school students on academic success and college readiness.

The advisor will manage a caseload of 250 students, coordinate the Learning Garden

program, and cultivate relationships with schools and community stakeholders across

Portsmouth, Suffolk, and Norfolk.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

 None.

Duties/Responsibilities:

 The advisor will oversee teachers implementing classroom garden projects and should

be comfortable supporting science-integrated learning.

 Coordinate and conduct student recruitment strategies; accept referrals and select

eligible participants.

 Deliver presentations to school personnel, students, and parents regarding program

benefits.

 Use a student-centered approach to advise on academic success, grade promotion,

and post-secondary preparation.

 Manage a caseload of 250 students and develop individualized College, Career, and

Academic Plans.

 Interpret report cards, transcripts, and test scores; monitor student progress and

participation.

 Conduct one-on-one meetings with students and families to identify and address

academic and personal challenges.

 Refer students to tutorial services and develop study skills workshops in collaboration

with school staff.

 Monitor attendance and discipline records for continued eligibility and intervention

support.

 Advise and mentor participants to build self-confidence and envision post-secondary

success.

 Maintain accurate and timely records, including case notes, contact logs, and eligibility

documentation.

 Organize data management, surveys, and program evaluation efforts.

 Coordinate student-centered college visits, enrichment activities, and cultural

experiences.

 Assist students and families with college entrance exams, financial aid applications, and

enrollment processes.

 Collaborate with college departments and community partners to support service

delivery.

 Participate in school staff meetings and TRIO-related training and conferences.

 Support the mission and values of the college, local school districts, and TRIO

programs.

 Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:

 Strong verbal and written communication skills.

 Effective interpersonal, presentation, and student engagement skills.

 Excellent organizational and time management abilities.

 Ability to manage and prioritize caseloads and deadlines.

 Experience working with youth from diverse backgrounds and underrepresented

communities.

 Competency with data entry and record-keeping.

 Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and relevant educational platforms.

 Ability to travel between school sites; flexible schedule including evenings/weekends as

needed.

Education and Experience:

 Bachelor’s degree in Education, Counseling, Social Work, or a related field required.

 Experience working with middle and/or high school students.

 Experience in Science or STEM education, particularly facilitating hands-on science

activities with elementary and middle school students, is preferred.

 Familiarity with TRIO programs, college access initiatives, or community-based youth

programs preferred.

Physical Requirements:

 Prolonged periods of driving and working at schools and program sites.

 Ability to lift up to 15 pounds occasionally (e.g., event materials or equipment).

 Ability to sit or stand for extended periods during meetings and presentations.

Schedule:

 8-hour shift

 After school

 Day shift

 Weekend availability

Work Location: In person (based in Portsmouth, VA with travel to Suffolk and Norfolk schools)

Travel Requirement: Required – reliable transportation needed

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Community Outreach Coalition is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not

discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religion, age, sex, sexual

orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other

protected category under federal, state, or local law. We value diversity and are committed to

creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Other Duties:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of

activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of The Community Outreach Coalition.

Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $47,947.30 - $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• After school
• Day shift
• Evenings as needed
• Weekends as needed

Ability to Commute:

• Portsmouth, VA 23704 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Portsmouth, VA 23704: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Willingness to travel:

• 25% (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $47,947 - $50,000