Engineering Student Retention Advisor

California State University, Chico; San Luis Obispo (CA); On-site; USD 61,000 - 67,000; Full time

Job summary

Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo seeks a Retention Advisor within the College of Engineering to coordinate student success initiatives and advise diverse student groups. You will work with Residential Life, Career Services, and advising centers to support persistence, retention, and graduation.

The role emphasizes strong communication, data-driven decision making, and empathetic guidance for students facing academic challenges.

Qualifications

• Requires a four-year college degree in behavioral sciences, public or business administration or related field.
• Two years of professional experience in student services or related field.
• A master’s degree may substitute for one year of experience.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and plan with university units (Residential Life, Student Life, Career Services, advising centers).
• Advise students individually and in groups on routine matters; apply sensitivity to diverse populations.
• Make data-driven decisions within established parameters and report outcomes.
• Recommend policy or practice changes when appropriate to improve student success.
• Maintain effective relationships with students, faculty, staff and the public.

Skills

Student services

Advising

Program management

Decision making

Initiative

Diplomacy

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Master's degree substitution for experience

Job description

Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo seeks a Retention Advisor within the College of Engineering to coordinate student success initiatives and advise diverse student groups. You will work with Residential Life, Career Services, and advising centers to support persistence, retention, and graduation.

The role emphasizes strong communication, data-driven decision making, and empathetic guidance for students facing academic challenges.