Program Advisor

tstc; Harlingen (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Texas State Technical College (TSTC) is seeking an Educational Advisor to guide students toward degree or certificate goals. The role focuses on planning, progress monitoring, and referrals to campus resources, while collaborating with faculty and staff to ensure student success.

The ideal candidate brings 1–3 years in advising or related roles, strong communication, and the ability to adapt to new strategies and technologies. Some evenings/weekends may be required to support programs and events.

Qualifications

• Associate degree from an accredited college required.
• Bachelor's degree preferred in education, counseling, student services, or related field.
• 1–3 years of experience in educational outreach, academic advising, financial aid advising, career advising, or teaching.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate TSTC core values in interactions with students, staff, faculty, and community.
• Monitor and support students' progression toward degree or certificate completion.
• Assist students in creating personalized, realistic educational plans aligned with goals.
• Guide students in task initiation, prioritization, planning and execution.
• Establish relationships with faculty and staff to support student success and retention.
• Coordinate information sessions, programming and projects aligned with program goals.
• Provide referrals to support services and connect students to resources.
• Track student communication, case notes, attendance, and course progress.
• Travel for professional development opportunities and student enrichment.

Skills

Communication

Multitasking

Critical thinking

Adaptability

Evenings/weekends

Education

Associate degree

Bachelor's degree preferred

Job description

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.

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 requi