Program Specialist I - First Year Initiatives (JSOM)

Program Specialist I – First Year Initiatives (JSOM)

The Program Specialist I supports the design, implementation, and assessment of first-year initiatives aimed at improving student transition, engagement, and retention. This role manages a caseload of first-year students, providing proactive outreach, consistent check-ins, and individualized support to help students successfully navigate their first year. In addition, the Program Specialist teaches and coordinates multiple sections of First Year Seminar (FYS) course, leading curriculum delivery, fostering student engagement, and facilitating classroom instruction. This role collaborates closely with campus partners to deliver programming aligned with institutional goals related to persistence and four-year graduation rates.

Minimum Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in Business or a related field, with a minimum of four years of experience in program/project development or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Education and Experience: Master's degree in higher education, student affairs, counseling, or a related field. Experience teaching, co-teaching, or facilitating first-year seminar or similar courses. Knowledge of student success strategies, retention practices, and early alert systems. Ability to analyze student data and implement targeted interventions.

To the extent this position requires the holder to research, work on, or have access to critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, the ability to maintain the security or integrity of the critical infrastructure is a minimum qualification to be hired and to continue to be employed in the position.

Key Responsibilities: Manage a caseload of first-year students through proactive outreach, regular check-ins, and individualized support. Teaching and facilitating of up to five First Year Seminar courses, including supporting curriculum delivery and student engagement. Identify barriers to student success and connect students to appropriate campus resources and interventions. Develop and implement programming that enhances the first-year student experience and supports retention. Collaborate with faculty, advisors, and campus partners to support student success initiatives. Track student interactions and utilize data to inform outreach strategies and improve program outcomes.