Academic Advisor- Running

Opportunity Description

Seattle Central College is looking to hire an Academic Advisor‑Running Start (Program Specialist 3) in the Running Start Office. Salary Range for this position is $61,512 to $80,820 annually (depending on experience). Opportunity is open until filled, first review of materials will begin January 19, 2026.

This Program Specialist 3 is a full‑time, classified position in Advising, Transfer, and Running Start at Seattle Central College. The position reports to the Director of Advising, Transfer, and Running Start and is responsible for providing new student enrollment and retention to students participating in the Running Start program. Additionally, the incumbent is expected to conduct outreach visits and student information sessions, as well as support departmental efforts in the new student onboarding and advising process.

The role will primarily provide support to the Running Start office and will work in collaboration with the Advising and Transfer Center. It will also act as liaison and content expert for the Running Start program and will travel offsite to visit partner high schools throughout each quarter.

The Program Specialist 3 position is scheduled Monday‑through‑Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with flexibility for evenings and weekends as needed. The position works at Seattle Central College but will travel to partner high schools across the greater Seattle area. The position works primarily on‑site with occasional remote days as allowed by division and is governed by a collective bargaining agreement with representation by WFSE.

We are a district of three distinct colleges—North Seattle College, Seattle Central College, and South Seattle College—and five specialty training centers. We are the largest and most diverse community college district in Washington, leaders in change and innovation.

Seattle Colleges is committed to recruiting dedicated faculty and employees who together create a welcoming academic climate that reflects the diverse backgrounds of our community, including ethnicity, national origin, religion, race, gender, gender identity, age, status as a veteran or disabled veteran, disability, political status, and sexual orientation.

As an employee, you will gain access to a benefits package including:

• Competitive pay rates
• Promotional opportunities
• Great medical, dental, and retirement plans
• Paid sick and vacation leave
• Transportation benefits
• Tuition waivers
• PEBB Wellness Plan
• Washington State Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)

Seattle Colleges staff and faculty also enjoy professional development opportunities and enrichment experiences in areas of their choice, including committee, workgroup, and affinity group opportunities.

• Attach current resume
• Attach cover letter addressing how your background intersects with the job

Required application materials must be completed and submitted online.

Please note that Seattle Colleges has moved to holding interviews virtually using video conference options such as Zoom or Teams. If selected for an interview, be prepared for a virtual interview.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a regular basis. The employer will not sponsor work visas. Seattle Colleges cannot extend post‑completion OPT to F‑1 students who receive STEM degrees.

• Provide academic/transfer advising and career exploration for new and continuing students; advise on a variety of topics related to their educational and professional goals.
• Assist students with development of short‑range education plans and new student academic support.
• Determine student eligibility for program participation, selection of appropriate classes, and tracking of academic progress; refer to instructional and student services departments as needed.
• Independently assist students with the Running Start application and admissions process, new student advising/orientation, and enrollment into the program.
• Regularly conduct high‑school site visits, lead information sessions, table at academic fairs and events, and host parent nights to promote and explain the…