Upward Bound Program Advisor at Clairton & McKeesport High Schools (Student Advocacy Specialist

Program Advisor (Student Advocacy Specialist)

TRIO Upward Bound Programs is seeking a Program Advisor (Student Advocacy Specialist) for program operations in the Clairton City and McKeesport Area School Districts. The UBCM Program Advisor assists in organizing, developing, and implementing social, educational, and service‑learning programs and activities for Upward Bound participants.

• Student recruitment and programming for grant‑determined school district population, parent/student events, and community stakeholders
• Advising, tutoring, or referring program participants on various student services including high school course selection, college readiness, financial aid, health and wellness, career services, academic advising, student leadership, and diversity and inclusion
• Development and implementation of academic year and summer residential programming in compliance with federal guidelines as outlined in the grant
• Develop and maintain effective working relationships with school districts, community partners, and campus and University‑wide offices
• Understanding and articulating unit policies and federal grant guidelines in oral and written communication
• Provide services to students with a focus on meeting the following core objectives of the project:
  • Assisting non‑senior students to complete rigorous coursework and pass to the next grade level each year
  • Assisting senior students to graduate from high school on time
  • Assisting senior students to matriculate to postsecondary education for the fall semester immediately following high school graduation
  • Assisting with tracking the postsecondary progress of students served for six years after high school graduation

• Experience collaborating with school district personnel to assist participants with scheduling high school courses, providing academic counseling and support services that ensure completion of a rigorous curriculum
• Reviewing and monitoring participants’ academic progress to guide implementation of grade‑level appropriate activities, focused on postsecondary goals integrated with a salient career focus
• Assisting participants with applying to postsecondary education and navigating the enrollment process
• Providing information about financial aid, assisting participants with applying for aid, and interpreting financial aid packages
• Coordinating and chaperoning postsecondary campus tours and career‑focused field trips
• Developing and maintaining a network of professional relationships with postsecondary institutions and community agencies
• Demonstrated experience providing direct college preparation services to 9th‑through 12th‑grade students and working with low‑income, first‑generation high school students from diverse backgrounds
• Knowledge of and experience with federally funded TRIO programs is preferred

• Outstanding interpersonal skills
• Excellent verbal and written communications
• Effective analytical, problem‑solving, and organizational skills
• Accuracy and attention to detail
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines

Must work one Saturday per month from September through May. Significant summer obligations in June and July. Weekend and evening work frequently required.

Bachelor’s Degree and 1+ year of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

None.

• PA State Police Criminal Background Check
• PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form
• Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check
• Valid driver’s license and motor vehicle records check

Salary range: $44,628.00 – $64,668.00. Includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, retirement plans, paid time off, and a 75% tuition discount for employees, spouses, and eligible children.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging.