Department: TRIO Talent Search-South

Campus Location: Wichita, KS - WSU Main Campus

Hire Type: Full Time

Pay: Range starting $42,000/yr, adjusted based on qualifications

Work Schedule: Mon-Fri, 8a-5p, occasional overnights; work is performed on-site and in person.

Export Compliance Requirement: No export control requirement.

Job Story

Some people are naturally good at keeping things organized. Others are naturally good with people. This role needs both. This position exists to ensure that program services are delivered as approved, documented accurately, and aligned with U.S. Department of Education TRIO regulations—while keeping students, families, and partner schools at the center of the work.

Working closely with the Director, this position helps translate federal objectives into consistent, high-quality services that move students toward postsecondary enrollment and success. And while there is important program administration behind the scenes, this is not a desk-only role. A majority of your time will be spent at South High School, working directly with students. You’ll build relationships, answer questions, follow up when someone needs an extra nudge, and become a familiar, trusted person in the school community.

You’ll help manage program schedules, recruiting efforts, budgets, documentation, and other administrative responsibilities while ensuring services are delivered as approved and align with U.S. Department of Education TRIO requirements. Organization and compliance matter, but so does knowing when to put down the spreadsheet and connect with a student. You’ll communicate with students, families, school personnel, university partners, program staff, and leadership, so being able to adjust your communication style and connect with people at different levels is essential.

If you’re the kind of person who can manage the details, support leadership, communicate with just about anyone, and still have the energy to spend your day working with students, we want to meet you.

Job Summary

Manages assigned college readiness and/or retention program(s) to meet business objectives. Oversees the day-to-day program activities which may include project schedules, budget tracking and development, recruiting, and project and/or program administration.

Essential Functions

Collaborates with senior leaders to develop program goals and infrastructure to align with defined business strategy. Creates new or troubleshoots and improves upon existing processes, procedures or systems to meet program goals. Manages program through creation of program plans, grant proposals, management tools and/or reporting capabilities. Performs project research and develops plans to effectively use program resources. Develops metrics to measure program success against program goals. Manages, recruits, trains and/or leads cross-functional teams and ensures resources are appropriately assigned to meet program goals. Recommends program or project budget according to needs. Monitors and adjusts project and program plans as resource requirements change. Communicates and documents program quality outcomes and progress metrics to senior program leaders. Regularly contacts participants, counselors, and partners to ensure program success. Addresses and resolves major or complex issues to ensure program goals remain on track.

Job Duties

Assigned Schools:
Truesdell Middle School and South High School (plus walk-in support as needed)

Key Responsibilities
-Support implementation of Talent Search services in compliance with federal TRIO guidelines and grant objectives
-Serve approximately 360 students annually, ensuring each one receives meaningful, documented, and compliant federal TRIO services.
-Assist with staff supervision, training, and service monitoring
-Oversee student service delivery, progress tracking, and documentation
-Support data management, evaluation, and Annual Performance Report (APR) preparation
-Maintain partnerships with schools, families, and community stakeholders
-Assist with budget monitoring and program operations
-Maintain accurate records and preparing reports to support federal performance measures

Required Education and Experience:

• Qualifications for this position are strictly defined by the approved grant proposal.
  See the education qualifications in the "Additional Information for Posting" section below.
• Qualifications for this position are strictly defined by the approved grant proposal.
  See the experience qualifications in the "Additional Information for Posting" section below.

Required License/Certifications/Training:

None

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of TRIO Talent Search-South program purpose, objectives, and required services as defined by the U.S. Department of Education
• Familiar with federal grant administration, compliance, and recordkeeping requirements
• Knowledge of postsecondary education preparation, including academic planning, career exploration, and financial aid processes
• Capable of data collection, performance reporting, and confidentiality requirements
• Skilled in assisting with administration and coordination of federally funded educational programs
• Understand how to monitor delivery of required TRIO services and documenting participation and outcomes
• Capable in supervising and supporting staff engaged in student services
• Skilled in effective communication with students, parents, schools, and institutional partners
• Ability to ensure program services are implemented in accordance with approved grant objectives and federal regulations
• Familiar with or able to learn how to translate federal requirements into consistent daily program operations
• Support partnerships with secondary schools and families to promote college access
• Exercise sound judgment in matters involving compliance, confidentiality, and student support

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior TRIO/GEAR UP experience or other educational opportunity programs or organizations.

Additional Information:

Position Requirements:
Master's degree in education, social service, psychology or related field.
One year's experience developing programming and scheduling for students and staff.
At least two years' experience working with low-income and potential first generation college students.
Two years' or more supervisory or managerial experience.

The chosen candidate is expected maintain membership in TRIO professional associations; write articles for the quarterly newsletter; and travel to local, regional, and national training seminars/conferences.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to remain in a stationary position. Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment including but not limited to phone, printers, copiers, and calculators. Ability to communicate with others and accurately exchange information. Ability to travel in a vehicle for distances including but not limited to across city, county, and state.

Additional Physical Requirement: