Basic Needs Advocate & Student Market Coordinator

State of South Carolina; West Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

The State of South Carolina seeks a Basic Needs Assistant to support the Dean of Students and the Basic Needs Committee, focusing on Maverick Market operations and student-centered assistance. The role promotes access to food and basic‑needs resources while coordinating programs across divisions.

Ideal candidates are approachable, organized, and committed to removing barriers to student success, with the ability to collaborate with diverse campus partners and communities.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; service-oriented experience is a plus.
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
• Work independently and as part of a team.
• Basic computer skills and ability to learn institutional software and systems.
• Perform physical duties maintaining the Maverick Market (standing, stocking, moving supplies).
• Experience in higher education or college student-support environment.
• Experience with food insecurity, basic needs, community resources, or social-support programs.
• Experience coordinating programs, events, committees, or partnerships.
• Experience with data collection, assessment, or program reporting.
• Knowledge of campus and community resources for basic-needs support.

Responsibilities

• Support the Dean of Students and Basic Needs Committee in advancing initiatives.
• Manage daily activities within the Maverick Market and ensure welcoming, student-centered service.
• Coordinate, implement, and promote basic-needs programs and related initiatives.
• Collaborate with campus departments, community partners, faculty, staff, and students to raise awareness and access to resources.

Skills

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Confidentiality

Independent worker

Teamwork

Data collection

Assessment

Program reporting

Community resources

Customer service

Diversity awareness

Education

Associate degree in education or related field

Tools

Institutional software

Job description

The State of South Carolina seeks a Basic Needs Assistant to support the Dean of Students and the Basic Needs Committee, focusing on Maverick Market operations and student-centered assistance. The role promotes access to food and basic‑needs resources while coordinating programs across divisions.

Ideal candidates are approachable, organized, and committed to removing barriers to student success, with the ability to collaborate with diverse campus partners and communities.