First Year Experience Specialist

Fayetteville State University; Fayetteville (NC); On-site; USD 53,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Fayetteville State University invites applications for a University Program Specialist (First Year Experience Specialist) to lead the Summer Bridge Program for incoming first-year students. You will design, coordinate, and assess the program, recruit mentors, manage logistics, and partner with faculty and staff to support students’ academic and personal transitions to campus life.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor's degree with at least one year of related work experience; a Master’s is

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and one year of related work experience, or equivalent.
• Knowledge of student success platforms (Banner, Outlook, Canvas).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work evenings/weekends during peak times.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement a structured Summer Bridge Program for first-year students.
• Coordinate scheduling, room assignments, transportation, meals, and logistics.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to participants and connect with campus resources.
• Oversee the student application and selection process.
• Recruit, hire, and train program mentors and support staff.
• Collect and analyze data on student outcomes, retention, and satisfaction.

Skills

Coaching/Advising

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Microsoft Office

TEAMS

Attention to detail

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

Banner

Microsoft Outlook

Canvas

TEAMS

Job description

Fayetteville State University

University Program Specialist

Position Number: 000613

Working Title: First Year Experience Specialist

Full Time

Time Limited Position: No

Number of Vacancies: 1

Department: Bronco One Stop

Posting Number: 0402699

SHRA/EHRA: SHRA

Job Category: Professional

Hiring Range: $59,311.00 - $59,311.00

Overall Position Competency: Journey

Primary Purpose of the Organization: The Bronco One Stop is a centralized space for students to access standard student services to strengthen their ability to navigate Fayetteville State University. Bronco One Stop aims to enhance the student experience with the application process, academic records, financial aid, making payments, speaking with an advisor to register for classes, gaining assistance with degree planning, receiving academic support, and navigating university resources. Fayetteville State University Advising Center’s mission is to promote student success by empowering students to achieve their academic and career aspirations. The Advising Center delivers high-quality services by providing support through educational planning, course selection, resource awareness, and success strategies.

Primary Purpose of the Position: The FYE Specialist oversees the development, coordination, and implementation of a comprehensive Summer Bridge Program for incoming first-year students. The role involves collaborating with faculty, staff, and student leaders to support students’ academic, social, and personal transitions to university life. The FYE Specialist is responsible for program design, logistics, recruitment, student engagement, and assessment. Additionally, the role will work closely with instructional leaders to develop, implement, and evaluate retention and student success practices.

Job Duties Include:

• Design and implement a structured Summer Bridge Program that addresses academic readiness, social integration, and personal development for first-year students.
• Coordinate scheduling, room assignments, transportation, meals, and other logistical components of the Summer Bridge Program.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to program participants, helping them navigate academic challenges, connect with campus resources, and develop social networks.
• Oversee the student application and selection process.
• Serve as a point of contact for students and parents throughout the recruitment process.
• Collect and analyze data on student outcomes, including academic performance, retention, and satisfaction.
• Recruit, hire, and train program mentors, peer leaders, and support staff.
• Communicate regularly with program participants, parents, and other stakeholders before, during, and after the program.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree and one year of related work experience; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

Knowledge skills and abilities:

Knowledge: Best practices in coaching/advising Knowledge of student success platforms (e.g., Banner, Microsoft Outlook, Canvas) Understanding of higher education practices that enhance student academic skills.

Skills: Communication skills to explain, write, advocate for, and report on program needs and academic outcomes Interpersonal skills to interact effectively with students, staff, and faculty Proficiency in computers, student success technology, Microsoft Office, and TEAMSAttention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to prioritize tasks while multitasking and managing them efficiently.

Abilities: Ability to respond effectively to unexpected events and adjust plans as needed. Listen and analyze student needs, generate reports on academic progression, and navigate student records. Provide basic process explanations and direct students to appropriate resources. Ability to establish and maintain productive working relationships. Time management skills and the ability to work calmly under pressure and meet tight deadlines. Ability to work independently and collaboratively with other offices. Comprehension and adherence to federal and university student confidentiality requirements. A willingness to work occasionally after 5:00 pm and on weekends, especially during peak times. Strong organizational, leadership, and project management skills. Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse group of stakeholders, including students, faculty, and administrators. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

Master’s degree in Education, Counseling, Student Affairs, or a related field. Experience working with first-year college students, preferably in a transition or retention-focused program. Familiarity with higher education trends and best practices in student retention and success Experience with program assessment and data analysis.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Please make sure that the work history listed on your application is identical to the work history listed on your resume. The application must be filled out completely, Do Not Use the phrase "see resume." Please list at least three (3) professional references to include a current supervisor. References will only be contact if you are selected for the position and with your permission.

Closing Date:

11/08/2026

Open Until Filled:

No

Other Information:

If no applicants apply who meet the required competency level and training & experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.

EEO Statement:

This position is subject to the successful completion of an employment background check. An employment background check includes a criminal background check, employment verification, reference checks, license verification (if applicable), academic verification and credit history check (if applicable).

Fayetteville State University is committed to equality of educational opportunity and employment and does not discriminate against applicants, students, or employees based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information or veteran status. Moreover, Fayetteville State University values diversity and actively seeks to recruit talented students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds.

Veteran's Statement:

Fayetteville State University is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and seeks priority referrals of protected veterans for our openings.