Student Assistance Specialist

Job Summary

Working in a collaborative team environment, the Office of Student Assistance and Support (OSAS) is dedicated to driving student success. In this role, you will serve all students while specializing in basic needs support, responding directly to student crisis situations and connecting individuals with critical resources. A primary focus of this position includes overseeing the daily operations of the Open Seat Food Pantry, ensuring equitable access to food and essential supplies across campus.

As a Case Manager / Student Assistance Specialist, you will directly supervise the Open Seat Graduate Advisor while providing indirect leadership, mentorship, training, and operational oversight to the undergraduate student team. The position is located on campus and offers a hybrid work schedule of approximately 80% on‑site and 20% remote.

• Serve on campus committees related to basic needs and food security.
• Oversee operations of the Open Seat Food Pantry, including direct supervision of the Open Seat Graduate Advisor and indirect supervision of undergraduate student employees.
• Prepare reports based on documented data as needed.
• Assess the needs of students/clients and provide or recommend interdisciplinary care.
• Create, implement, coordinate, and monitor treatment plans to assist students/clients in meeting wellness goals.
• Document all cases and accurately maintain records of cases discussed.
• Serve as primary resource and referral source for students/clients in dealing with a crisis and/or mental health issues.

• Experience working in case management.
• Experience delivering presentations, working with community agencies, and outreach.

• Experience working with populations related to basic needs or food access.
• Experience working in higher education.
• Experience supervising staff.

Bachelor’s degree required. Master’s degree preferred in Higher Education, Student Development, Social Work, or a related field.

Starting salary range: $58,000 to $60,000, depending on qualifications and experience. Maximum approved budget is $60,000 and is non‑negotiable. The position offers a comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, health/dental/vision/life insurance, tax‑advantaged savings accounts, and participation in the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) pension fund. Benefits summary: https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

The University of Wisconsin‑Madison is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgrounds and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website. If you require a disability or pregnancy‑related accommodation at any step in the hiring process, please contact the Divisional Disability Representative in your division. Employment may require a criminal background check.