TRIO SSSP Retention Specialist

UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment:
Apply by 10/2/2026 for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.

Reassignment Applicants:
Eligible Reassignment clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.

Reporting to the TRIO SSS Director, this position is responsible for a broad range of programmatic support in the administration and delivery of services designed to increase the retention and graduate school admission rates for TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) participants. Works with the TRIO team to coordinate and support the design, delivery, advising, counseling, and administration of skill development and academic support services through workshops, seminars, and tutoring.

The TRIO SSS Retention Specialist develops and prepares materials for training, meetings, events, workshops, and outreach - including programs and presentations for campus partners and the community. Serves as a primary point of contact for TRIO SSS students, building supportive relationships and connecting students to campus resources - including academic advising, counseling, financial aid, study management, and tutoring - to enhance academic success.

The Retention Specialist collaborates with the TRIO SSS Director and campus partners to develop comprehensive academic intervention strategies, providing intentional support to students who are currently enrolled, no longer enrolled, or on academic notice or dismissal. Works with the Academic Success and Retention Manager in OASIS to identify and implement support strategies for students experiencing academic challenges. Conducts ongoing reviews of student data within each cohort to identify trends affecting academic progress and retention, and develops intrusive, solution-centered outreach strategies to address them.

Works collaboratively with the colleges - including the Deans of Academic Advising - to provide academic counseling and guidance on university policies, procedures, and graduation requirements, applying a problem-solving rather than prescriptive approach to support retention, close the achievement gap, and promote degree completion.

The Retention Specialist assists in the application review of incoming TRIO SSS participants and supports the recruitment, training, and supervision of student staff, providing guidance and mentorship on their academic and socio-cultural needs. Also participates in TRIO SSS marketing, social media, and online presence; establishes and maintains liaisons with campus resource centers and academic departments; and serves on committees, special projects, and related assignments as appointed by the TRIO SSS Director.

Cover letter is required for application to be considered complete.

• Knowledge of the theories and practice of counseling, learning, human and career development.

• Graduation from college with major coursework in Sociology, Education, Ethnic Studies, or a related field

• Knowledge of personal growth and development areas, including critical thinking, effective communication, self-appraisal, self-esteem, clarification of values, appropriate career choices, and leadership.

• Verified skill in the development, implementation and evaluation of educational, cultural, and social programs in a higher education environment that reflect the needs of a diverse student population.

• Knowledge of the methodologies used to enhance student achievement.

• Knowledge of theories and principles of higher education and student development with ability to interpret and implement policies and procedures.

• Knowledge of trends and issues facing low-income and first-generation college, underrepresented, disadvantaged, physically challenged, and under…