TRIO Talent Search Academic Advisor (Two Open Positions) - Educational Talent Search

This position is Open until filled. Early applications are encouraged as the position may close before the listed deadline once a suitable candidate is found.

Summary of Job Duties:

The TRIO Talent Search Academic Advisor is one that generates, inspires, and sustains motivation in students who want to dream big and achieve their college and career goals. Serving as both coach and cheerleader, this role engages youth with energy, authenticity, and relatable guidance—whether in one-on-one advising or dynamic, interactive presentations that spark excitement for the future.

The Academic Advisor serves as a college/career preparatory coach and is designed to help students reach their educational and career goals. The primary responsibilities include recruitment of new participants; advisement on academic issues including the completion of a rigorous high school curriculum; high school graduation and college entry/graduation; scholarship and financial aid; application information; and post-secondary selection/application. The position requires the development and presentation delivery of college preparatory curriculum for participants in approved target schools which are engaging and age/grade appropriate, the development and implementation of program activities promoting college entry such as campus visits to area colleges and universities, summer camps, educational/career trips, and other college preparatory and campus initiatives. As required by the U.S. Department of Education, record keeping duties for this position include the entry and maintenance of hard copy and database files for all program participants, documentation of services provided, and tracking/reporting student progress for annual performance reporting. This position will regularly travel by car to nearby middle, junior high, and high schools and occasionally will be required to travel by air, bus or car for work-related student events or conferences. 

A valid driver’s license in addition to reliable transportation is required for regular travel to target schools.  

Regular, reliable, and non-disruptive attendance is an essential job duty, as is the ability to create and maintain collegial, harmonious working relationships with others. A valid driver’s license in addition to reliable transportation is required for travel to schools.

The TRIO Talent Search program is a federally funded grant from the U.S. Department of Education. The Talent Search grants are currently starting the 5th year of a 5-year grant cycle (9/1/25-8/31/26) and are in the process of writing for another 5 years of continued funding.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in education, counseling, social work, family studies, behavioral science, public administration, or another related field from an accredited institution in education

At least two years of related work experience (middle and high school youth, first-generation and/or low-income students, etc.)

Experience in educational, career, and personal curriculum development 

Applicable equivalencies may be considered for the above qualifications.

Preferred Qualifications:

A Master’s degree in education, counseling, social work, family studies, behavioral science, public administration, or another related field from an accredited institution in education

Bilingual proficiency in Spanish and English 

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

Knowledge of personal, academic, and career counseling strategies and practices 

Knowledge of academic requirements related to high school graduation, post-secondary enrollment, and post-secondary completion 

Proficient in written, verbal, and organizational skills  

Proficient skill and knowledge in program development and/or implementation of college access and support services for high school students 

Proficient skill developing, organizing, presenting and implementing services related to college readiness in individual, small group, and large group settings 

Skill in monitoring/assessing the performance of self, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action 

Proficient skill using Microsoft Office Suite, databases, design software, and other related technology 

Proficient skill communicating effectively with high school students, target school personnel, parents, and campus and community partners 

Proficient skill documenting, assessing, and evaluating program-related information and outcomes 

Ability to interpret and apply federal regulations and guidelines to ensure compliance 

Ability to learn, evaluate, and synthesize detailed information related to secondary and post-secondary education completion 

Ability to serve as a positive role model for program participants 

Ability to maintain effective working relationships, build trust, and work collaboratively  

Ability to adapt to frequent changes, balance multiple competing priorities and perform highly detailed work 

Additional Information:

This position is renewable annually based on continued need for the position, availability of funding, and satisfactory job performance.

Salary Information:

$43,923 (Commensurate with education and experience)

Required Documents to Apply:

Cover Letter/Letter of Application, List of three Professional References (name, email, business title), Resume, Unofficial/Official Transcript(s)

Optional Documents:

Proof of Veteran Status

Recruitment Contact Information:

Nathan Brown
Executive Director, Talent Search Programs
479-575-2625
ncbrown@uark.edu