Student Services Specialist Senior - DSPS

Salary : $70,795.26 - $95,446.70 Annually
Location : Golden West College, Huntington Beach, CA
Job Type: Classified Staff
Job Number: G-033-26
Division: Golden West College
Department: DSPS
Opening Date: 06/01/2026
Closing Date: 6/12/2026 11:59 PM Pacific


Definition
(ON-CAMPUS - In-Person Position)
About Golden West College

Located in the coastal community of , Golden West College is regarded as one of the most beautiful campuses in Southern California. The college is highly regarded for academic quality and innovation. In its earliest years, the college was recognized for its pioneering leadership in designing learning-centered programs and services for its student body and continues that tradition to this day.
Golden West College (GWC) has an unwavering commitment to quality education; equitable outcomes; inclusive practices; and racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic diversity. Ideal candidates for all positions at our college share our devotion to educating and improving the lives of our representative students, employees, and community populations. Currently, our college enrolls approximately 11,000 students per term; 34.2% are Latinx, 31.8% are Asian, 22.4% are White, 1.8% are African American, 0.5% are Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, and 4.8% are multiracial. GWC is an officially designated Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI). GWC engages in regular professional development opportunities and partnerships so that we can best serve disproportionately impacted groups. Activities and connections include GWC's partnership with student and employee involvement in organizations like Puente, Student Veterans, and Gay Lesbian Alternative Straight Alliance (GLASA); a robust District Ally training program, including UndocuAlly (undocumented students), SafeZone (LGBTQ), Vet Net (veterans), and Ability Ally; and other equity minded programs; and a full calendar of culturally responsive events.
D.E.I.A - Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility


At Golden West College we are committed to providing high quality education and equitable outcomes through inclusive practices that support and celebrate everyone. We welcome candidates that share our devotion to educating and improving the lives of our representative students, employees, and community populations. Please visit the links below to learn more information about GWC:

• Mission, Vison and Values
• GWC Strategic Plan 2025-2029
• GWC Employee-Student Demographics
• Student Equity and Achievement Program

Summary

Performs a full range of highly complex technical duties in support of student services programs. Incumbents must possess a thorough knowledge of all phases of special student populations in an assigned program. Interprets rules, laws, and regulations related to the specific program area. Works closely with administration, faculty, management, external entities, staff, and students.
Distinguishing Career Features

The Student Services Specialist Senior is the senior-level classification in the Student Services series. This class is distinguished from the Student Services Assistant, which performs entry-level administrative and clerical functions and more basic duties in support of the assigned program; and Student Services Specialist, which performs varied and mid-level administrative/clerical and technical program support and/or specialized functions related to the area of assignment, program, department, or office.
The Department
The Disabled Students Programs and Services (DSPS) provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilitieswho intend to pursue coursework at Golden West College (GWC). A variety of programs and services are available, which allow eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Specific duties may vary among departments, divisions and jobs. Incumbents typically perform a substantial portion or all of the following types of duties, as assigned:

1. Coordinates and provides oversight to the day-to-day operations involving providing logistical and functional support and scheduling of activities and events related to assigned program; ensures efficient and effective workflow to meet program timelines and student needs.
2. Assists current and prospective students with various needs related to the assigned program; determines eligibility, provides necessary information, troubleshoots issues and concerns and assists students with accurate completion of required program documentation.
3. Responds to student, faculty, staff and/or community inquiries; resolves complaints and various issues; provides direction to appropriate personnel/departments to assist with resolution, if necessary; provides information and available resources to students.
4. Serves as the subject matter expert and resource to students, faculty, management, staff and the community on assigned program.
5. Coordinates program budget and fiscal processes, including procurement, purchase orders, invoices, transaction records, as well as projections for operational and project expenses. Monitors and maintains records on all program funding sources.
6. Researches, responds and resolves routine student program issues; referring issues of more complex areas of concern to the appropriate manager and/or administrator for consultation. Makes recommendations for mutually acceptable resolutions.
7. Coordinates logistics for outreach activities, meetings, and events.
8. Develops, implements, and conducts informational workshops and trainings related to assigned program and services; works with external agencies to provide information on available resources for students.
9. Provides support to administrators, faculty, counselors, and managers by prioritizing and assigning work to lower classifications, temporary/hourly staff, and student workers; provides training as needed in the assigned program.
10. Works closely with offices of Campus Life, Student Health Center, Public Safety, Enrollment Services, Counseling, Instructional Faculty, Fiscal Services, and other departments across campus and the District to ensure cohesive and collaborative student service.
11. Researches, collects, and analyzes internal and external data from diverse sources to assess needs and plan co-curricular program activities, excursions, and events.
12. Provides complex technical information and group or one-on-one assistance to students, instructors, counselors, and others in the assigned program.
13. Creates, prepares, designs, maintains, and delivers program resource information, presentations, reports, correspondence, and promotional materials; provides information for social media and website presence.
14. Interprets and conveys specialized program guidelines and applicable state and federal laws, college and program policies, rules and regulations to students, instructors, counselors, and others.
15. Assists with hiring process for student assistants and other staff, as assigned.
16. Researches and assists in analyzing and interpreting guidelines and regulations associated to assigned program.
17. Performs technically complex and difficult student advising and processing with minimal supervision.
18. Compiles and analyzes data to assist in the preparation and dissemination of program reports and maintains necessary database records in accordance with federal, state, and local policies, procedures, and guidelines.
19. Collects, updates, and maintains relevant confidential student information in student database and files, and/or special program databases, and/or additional corresponding reporting systems.
20. Monitors and responds to requests for service, and refers/schedules student appointments for program services, as needed; maintains records related to student changes and/or needs.
21. Maintains inventory of program supplies and materials, oversees expenditure approval processes, purchasing, tracking, and monitoring of supply orders.
22. Performs other related duties as assigned that support the objective of the position.
23. Required to abide by all District policies and procedures including Board Policy 3050 - Code of Professional Ethics.

Qualifications and Physical Demands
Knowledge and Skills

1. Requires working knowledge of the principles and practices associated with assigned program within the higher education environment.
2. Requires basic knowledge of and use of learning, communication tools, and technologies.
3. Requires knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
4. Requires knowledge of program support principles and practices.
5. Requires proficient knowledge of computer applications including common office productivity software, internet, and software applications and platforms supporting academic and higher education in general.
6. Requires proficient knowledge of specialized, program-specific computer applications or reporting databases.
7. Requires sufficient math skills to read, record, and understand statistical data and concepts.
8. Requires sufficient English language and writing skills sufficient to prepare materials and reports.
9. Requires well-developed oral communication skills to convey concepts in individual and group settings in college and community-based meetings.
10. Requires intercultural communication skills and cultural competency to work cooperatively with a diverse population of students and service providers.

Abilities

1. Requires the ability to perform the essential responsibilities and functions of the position.
2. Requires the ability to perform delivery of student service, advisory, and advocacy services.
3. Requires the ability to learn, interpret, and apply District, state, and federal requirements and objectives for academic achievement.
4. Requires the ability to work cooperatively with students, faculty and staff, as well as external service providers, families, community organizations, and other agencies.
5. Requires the ability to interpret and apply applicable laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
6. Requires the ability to exercise independent judgement and provide sound recommendations based on research and analysis.
7. Requires the ability to develop and maintain active advocacy relationships with students.
8. Requires the ability to organize and prioritize work, manage time, and meet program deadlines.
9. Requires the ability to communicate in a professional manner, orally and in writing, in both formal and informal settings with students, faculty, staff, managers, and others involved with the program.
10. Requires the ability to maintain confidentiality.

Physical Abilities

1. The general physical demands, working conditions, and essential job functions associated with this classification will be kept on file with the Office of Human Resources.
2. Essential functions will vary by position.
3. As defined by Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act ("ADA") and California's Fair Employment and Housing Act ("FEHA"), the District shall engage in a timely, good faith interactive process with employees or employment applicants who are requesting or are in need of reasonable accommodations and, provide reasonable accommodations for employees or employment applicants who, because of their disability, are limited in or unable to perform one or more of the essential functions of their job in accordance with applicable state and federal law.

Minimum Qualifications: Education, Experience, D.E.I.A


The position requires an Associate's degree in education, social science, or related field and four (4) years in a highly responsible technical/program support capacity, involving frequent customer contact, preferably in an educational environment. Or, any combination of education and experience which would provide the required equivalent qualifications for the position.
AND
Demonstrated evidence of responsiveness to and understanding of the racial, ethnic, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic, academic, and cultural diversity within the community college student population, including students with different ability statuses (e.g., physical and/or learning) as these factors relate to the need for equity-minded practice within the classroom and campus.


Preferred Qualifications
Experience supporting disability services programs (e.g., DSPS) in a community college or higher education environment, including student eligibility, accommodations, and case coordination.

Licenses and Certificates
May require a valid driver license. May require proof of US citizenship or Permanent Resident Status, if federal database access is required.
Working Conditions
Work is performed indoors where minimal safety considerations exist.

This job specification describes the general nature of the work performed, representative duties as well as the typical qualifications needed for acceptable performance. It is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, work steps, and skills required of the job.

Conditions of Employment
This recruitment is for one permanent , full-time classified, 40 hour per week, 12-month per year position. The normal hours of work are Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm. The effective date of employment will be arranged with the supervisor.
ATTENTION: Before applying, please be sure to review the Coast Colleges District Board Policy regarding check if your application may be impacted. Additionally, applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time. If you have any questions, please contact HR Recruitment at View phone number on click.appcast.io or View phone number on click.appcast.io.
Application Requirements


To be considered for employment you must submit a complete application packet at by the application deadline: 11:59P M Friday, June 12, 2026.
Incomplete applications, application materials submitted by mail and documents not requested in the job announcement will not be considered. Please note that the district does not return materials submitted in the application process (copies of original supporting documents are acceptable).


A complete application packet includes:

1. A complete Coast Community College District Online Employment Application.
2. A Current Resume of professional and educational background and experience
3. A Cover Letter detailing your experience related to the role.
4. Detailed responses to all Supplemental Questions.

Individuals who need reasonable accommodations in accordance with ADA should notify the Human Resources Office for assistance by emailing View email address on click.appcast.io or by calling View phone number on click.appcast.io.

Pay Philosophy

Coast Community College District, through policies, practices, and other benefit programs, delivers a fair and equitable total compensation program that promotes equal employment opportunity, inclusion, and workforce vitality. In general, it is the policy of the district to place new employees at the first step of the salary grade. All movement on the salary schedule will occur July 1 of each year for all classified employees. (Salary Range EE-117)
Benefits

This position is eligible for the following benefits. Please visit the benefits tab above for additional information.

• Generous medical, dental, vision and life insurance plans for employees and dependents
• 21 paid holidays
• Cumulative sick leave
• Paid vacation
• Longevity salary programs
• PERS/STRS retirement plans
• Deferred compensation/457 plans

Employment Information

• Regular attendance is considered an essential job function; the inability to meet attendance requirements may preclude the employee from retaining employment.
• The person holding this position is considered a mandated reporter under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in Coast Community College District policies, procedures, and Title IX. (Reference: BP/AP 5910 )
• The Coast Community College District celebrates all forms of diversity and is deeply committed to fostering an inclusive environment within which students, staff, administrators, and faculty thrive. Individuals interested in advancing the District's strategic diversity goals are strongly encouraged to apply. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified applicants with disabilities who self-disclose.

The SELECTED CANDIDATE is required to complete the following prior to employment:

• Provide a Certificate of Tuberculosis Exam for initial appointment (Note: The certificate must be renewed every 4 years as a condition of continuing employment).
• Have fingerprints taken by a Live Scan computer at the candidate's expense (Clearance must be received prior to the first day of employment).
• Present original documents for proof of eligibility to work in the United States including a Social Security Card; AND
• Participate in a new hire onboarding appointment with an Employment Services Representative.

Additional Information
Coast Community College District is an Equal Opportunity Employer
The Coast Community College District is committed to employing qualified administrators/managers, faculty, and staff members who are dedicated to student learning and success. The Board recognizes that diversity in the academic environment fosters awareness, promotes mutual understanding and respect, and provides suitable role models for all students. We are committed to hiring and staff development processes that support the goals of equal opportunity and diversity, and equal consideration for all qualified candidates. The District does not discriminate unlawfully in providing educational or employment opportunities to any person on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, or genetic information. The Coast Community College District is a multi-college district that includes Coastline, Community College, Golden West College, and Orange Coast College.
Coast Community College District Title IX

For more information on Title IX click


The 2025 Coast Community College District Annual Security and Fire Safety provides the crime statistics for calendar years 2022, 2023, and 2024, which were submitted to the U.S. Department of Education as required under the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act. A hard copy can be obtained from one of the Campus Safety Offices. Please contact any of the Campus Safety Offices for any questions.
Comprehensive Medical, Dental and Vision

We know that the health of our employees and their families is a priority. That's why we offer extensive health care benefits to benefits-eligible employees. We offer the District's Anthem Blue Cross PPO plan as well as three HMO's, Blue Shield Access Plus, Blue Shield TRIO, and Kaiser Permanente. We also provide District-paid dental and vision insurance.
Benefits are available to regular permanent employees working 20 or more hours per week. Benefits are not available to employees working less than 20 hours per week, temporary, hourly, or other short-term employees.
District-paid Life Insurance

The District provides Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance benefits, underwritten by VOYA. This district-paid benefit is equal to one time your annual salary and remains in effect until age 70. At age 70, your benefit is reduced to half.
District-paid Disability Benefits

Coast Community College District provides both a short-term disability benefit and long-term disability benefit to employees working 20 or more hours per week who are unable to work because of disability due to illness, injury, or maternity.
Voluntary Plans

A variety of voluntary plans are offered through the Coast Community College District to benefits-eligible employees such as Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts, MetLife (Hyatt) Legal Plan, and other Section 125 compliant insurance plans.
Enrich Your Profession


Professional Development Programs The District offers a variety of Professional Development programs for faculty and classified staff that encompasses all types of facilitated learning opportunities, ranging from college degrees to formal coursework and conferences. We encourage lifelong learning that maintains and improves professional competencies, enhances career progression, and keeps our employees on the cutting edge of their profession.
Sabbatical Leaves


Faculty members are encouraged to pursue professional growth leading to the development of increased competence and the improvement of instruction and/or redirection in their current teaching discipline. The District's sabbatical leave program is designed to assist in this pursuit and is available on a semester basis after completing six consecutive years of service.
Academic Senate


The Academic Senate is the governing body at each of our colleges for making recommendations to administration and to our Board of Trustees with respect to academic and professional matters. The Senate consists of elected faculty and has the responsibility for matters related to curriculum and general academic policy.
Time to Refuel

Vacation - Classified employees earn vacation days commensurate with years of service. Confidential, Educational Administrators, and Classified Managers earn 22 days of vacation each fiscal year. Accrued vacation is prorated for all employee categories working less than full-time.
Sick Leave - All contract employees earn sick leave as outlined in the CA Education Code. Sick leave may be carried over from year-to-year and, upon retirement, unused sick leave may contribute to your CalPERS or CalSTRS retirement pension benefit.
Holidays - The Coast Community College District observes 22 paid holidays per year.
Jury Duty, Bereavement, Military Leave - Coast Community College District grants contract employees called to jury duty a leave of absence, without loss of pay, for the entire length of required service. Other available leaves include bereavement from 3-5 days and military leaves of absence in accordance with applicable state laws.
Great Expectations

Pension Plans - The Coast Community College District participates in the California State Teachers Retirement System (CalSTRS) and the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) for contract employees. Non-contract employees participate in the Public Agency Retirement Services (PARS) plan for the first 1,000 hours of their employment.
Medical Benefits After Retirement - It is the policy of the Coast Community College District that contract employees, who retire from the District at age 60 or older and with fifteen or more years of service, be afforded the same group insurance benefits until 70 years of age. A Medicare Supplement plan is available to retirees and their spouses after age 70.
Annuities - The Coast Community College District maintains a program whereby qualified employees may request through Payroll to have a portion of their salary deposited to a 403b tax-sheltered annuity plan or an approved 457 deferred compensation plan.
Schools First Federal Credit Union - The Schools First Federal Credit Union is a federally insured, full service, financial cooperative that is a not-for-profit organization. Earnings are used to benefit all members to provide a full range of financial services and offerings.
01


Golden West College is committed to fostering a culture of inclusive excellence by uplifting employees and students through an environment that is equitable, diverse, inclusive, and accessible. When responding to the questions below, please provide clear examples with successful outcomes, offer instances where you applied job skills to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as your input towards advancing the overall culture at your former workplace.Please confirm Yes to acknowledge that you have read and understand these guidelines.

• Yes
• No

02


Describe your professional experience working with special student populations in a higher education or comparable environment. Include the setting, your role, and the primary services or program supports you provided.
03


Describe your experience coordinating day-to-day operations, services, or activities for a student services program. Include examples of responsibilities such as scheduling, logistics, workflow coordination, or service monitoring.
04


Describe your experience handling complex or sensitive student cases that required research, coordination with other departments, or referral to supervisors or administrators.
05


Describe your experience working with faculty, counselors, administrators, or external agencies to support student access to programs or services through outreach. Specify your role in these collaborations
06


I understand that a COMPLETE application packet is required for consideration, which includes the following:1. A completed Coast Community College District Online Employment Application 2. A current Resume (attachment)3. A Cover Letter (attachment)4. Detailed responses to supplemental questions (Note: These responses will be screened to determine which candidates are invited to interview.)

• Yes
• No

Required Question