College Navigator (Lowell, MA)

Ne Arc; Lowell (MA); On-site; USD 32,373 - 43,394; Part time

Job summary

Northeast Arc is seeking a compassionate College Support Specialist to empower college students with Autism and Developmental Disabilities in Lowell, MA. This role involves guiding students through registration and providing essential campus resources. The position is community-based, requiring travel to students’ homes and college campuses.

Candidates should possess a relevant Bachelor's degree and preferably a Master's degree, along with experience supporting individuals with Developmental Disabilities. A valid driver's license is required, and the role offers a pay rate of $23.50–$31.50/hour.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, Special Education, or related field.
• Master's degree preferred.
• 2–3 years of experience supporting individuals with Developmental Disabilities (Autism experience preferred).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Comfort with technology for documentation and timekeeping.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to pass CORI/SORI checks.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 40 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Guiding students through class registration and academic planning.
• Helping students access essential campus resources.
• Teaching skill-building lessons (goal setting, time management, etc.).
• Supporting students with coursework completion and organization.
• Assisting with employment readiness: resumes and job search strategies.
• Collaborating with families and college staff.
• Providing coaching in communication and personal independence.
• Maintaining accurate documentation and reports.

Skills

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Experience supporting individuals with Developmental Disabilities

Technology comfort for documentation and timekeeping

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Special Education, or related field

Master's degree preferred

Job description

College Support Specialist – Make a Real Impact in a Student’s College Journey

Northeast Arc is looking for a compassionate, creative College Support Specialist to empower college students with Autism and/or Developmental Disabilities as they take on campus life in Lowell, MA. If you’re passionate about inclusion, education, and helping young adults thrive, this role offers the chance to make a direct and lasting difference.

What You’ll Do

• Guiding students through class registration, financial aid steps, and academic planning
• Helping students access and understand essential campus resources
• Teaching weekly skill-building lessons (goal setting, time management, understanding a syllabus, career exploration, etc.)
• Supporting students with coursework completion and organization
• Assisting with employment readiness: resumes, cover letters, and job search strategies
• Collaborating with families, service providers, and college staff
• Providing coaching in communication, social skills, personal independence, and community engagement
• Maintaining accurate documentation and completing required reportsOffering resources and guidance to students and families as needed

Schedule & Pay

Pay: $23.50–$31.50/hour (based on education & experience)

Hours: 2–3 hours per client per week; up to 20 hours/week depending on client needs and your availability

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Special Education, or related field
• Master's degree preferred
• 2–3 years of experience supporting individuals with Developmental Disabilities (Autism experience preferred)
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Comfort with technology for documentation and timekeeping
• Valid driver’s license and ability to pass CORI/SORI checks
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 40 lbs

Where You’ll Work

This role is community-based, with support provided in students’ homes, on college campuses, and in the surrounding community. Travel for work-related activities is required.