Program Advisor

Texas State Technical College; Harlingen (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Texas State Technical College in Texas invites applicants for the Program Advisor position. The role supports students in achieving academic success within an assigned program by applying advising theories and experience.

You will help students develop personalized strategies for success, coordinate information sessions, connect them to campus resources, and document progress using a case management system. Evening/weekend availability may be required.

Qualifications

• Associate degree required; Bachelor's preferred in education, counseling, student services, social work, or related field.
• 1–3 years of experience in educational outreach, academic advising, financial aid advising, career advising, or teaching.
• Experience with case management and knowledge of learning styles, executive function support, and retention strategies is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Model TSTC core values in interactions with students, staff, and community.
• Support students' progression toward degree or certificate completion with personalized plans.
• Coordinate information sessions, programming, and projects aligned with program goals.
• Connect students to resources including advising, counseling, and learning support.
• Track communications, attendance, grades, and progress using a case management system.
• Travel for professional development or student enrichment as needed.

Skills

Written & verbal communication

Multitasking

Critical thinking

Adaptability

Technology proficiency

Evenings/weekends flexibility

Education

Associate degree

Bachelor's degree (preferred)

Tools

Case management software

Job description

Are you someone who strives for excellence, values accountability, provides the best service, all while reflecting unwavering integrity? Our talented team members across the state follow the behaviors, beliefs and outcomes of these core values to ensure that our vision is met.

Job Description The Program Advisor supports students in achieving academic success within an assigned program by applying advising theories and experience. The advisor will assist students in developing individualized strategies for success, focusing on learning strategies, time management, organization, self-advocacy, and decision-making.

Essential Functions:

• 1. Demonstrate TSTC Core Values: Consistently embody TSTC's Core Values (Excellence, Accountability, Service, Integrity) in interactions with students, staff, faculty, and the community.
• 2. Engage and Support Students: Monitor and support students’ progression toward degree or certificate completion. Assist students in creating personalized, realistic educational plans that align with their life and career goals. Guide students in task initiation, prioritization, planning, and execution. Introduce and encourage the use of various learning and study strategies. Support students’ social and emotional well-being and their adjustment to the college environment. Assist students with return-planning as needed.
• 3. Communicate and Collaborate: Establish and maintain positive relationships with faculty and staff to support student success and retention. Develop a thorough understanding of TSTC policies, rules, and regulations, and help students navigate them. Coordinate and conduct information sessions, programming, and projects aligned with program goals and student support. Ensure students are aware of certification or licensure exam requirements, dates, and processes. Collaborate with other departments to prepare students for employment.
• 4. Connect Students to Resources: Provide referrals to support services such as ALA, ARC, CARE, Counseling, Testing, and other learning support resources, with a focus on Texas-sized Care.
• 5. Utilize Technology: Track student communication, case notes, and strategic activities using a case management system. Monitor student attendance, grades, and course progress. Generate reports for faculty and Enrollment Coaches.
• 6. Perform Other Duties as Needed or Assigned: Travel for professional development opportunities and/or student enrichment trips at local, state, and national levels. Other duties that support the program's purpose and initiatives of TSTC.

Knowledge and Skills:

Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective information delivery. Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet advising objectives. Advanced critical thinking skills for decision-making and problem-solving. Adaptability to learn and use new technologies. Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends.

Competencies:

• Interpersonal Skills: Engage effectively with students and colleagues.
• Customer Service: Provide timely, concise, and professional information.
• Time Management: Prioritize tasks to meet student needs and deadlines.
• Problem-Solving: Utilize critical thinking to determine the best course of action.
• Teamwork: Actively participate and encourage cooperation within the team.
• Cultural Competence: Exhibit sensitivity to diverse backgrounds and foster an inclusive environment for all students.

Education:

• Minimum Required: Associate degree from an accredited college or university.
• Preferred: Bachelor's degree in education, counseling, student services, social work, or a related field.

Experience:

• Required: 1-3 years of experience in educational outreach, academic advising, financial aid advising, career advising, or teaching.
• Preferred: Experience in case management. Coursework or training in learning styles, executive function support, and best practices for increasing retention rates, GPAs, and graduation rates. Professional or personal experience in removing educational barriers.

Note: This job description outlines the general responsibilities of the position. The percentage of time spent on each function may vary based on workload and will be determined by the supervisor. This is a security-sensitive position.

Equal Opportunity Employer Texas State Technical College (TSTC), as an equal opportunity employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination. TSTC is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

Employment Eligibility Verification

If hired, you will be required to complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification I-9 form. You will be required to present acceptable and original documents to prove your identity and authorization to work in the United States. Documents need to be presented no later than the third day of employment. Failure to do so will result in loss of employment at TSTC.

Background Checks

A criminal history background check will be required for the finalist(s) under consideration for this position.

TSTC's Statewide Role and Mission

TSTC is the only state-supported technical college system in Texas. TSTC's statewide role and mission is to efficiently and effectively help Texas meet the high-tech challenges of today's global economy, in partnership with business and industry, government agencies, and other educational institutions.

Campus Safety Information

TSTC publishes the Annual Security Report (ASR), which includes the Annual Fire Safety Report (AFSR), to ensure that essential information about campus safety is readily accessible. This report includes data on crimes and fire incidents from the past three calendar years, outlining safety measures, reporting protocols, and emergency response plans. It also highlights crime prevention programs and support resources available to the campus community. These reports underscore TSTC's commitment to fostering a safe and informed environment for all students, employees, and visitors.

For more information, the report is available on the Clery Act Information page of the TSTC website at tstc.edu/cleryact, and physical paper copies can be requested from the TSTC Police Department or by calling 254-867-3690 .