Professional Tutor

Professional Tutor

The Professional Tutor provides individualized and small-group academic support to Columbia College students in STEM disciplines and/or writing. This position helps students strengthen subject knowledge, develop effective academic strategies, and build confidence as independent learners. Working collaboratively with Learning Commons staff and faculty, the Professional Tutor provides accessible, student-centered academic assistance in their designated areas of expertise while maintaining a welcoming and inclusive learning environment.

Essential Functions

• Academic Tutoring and Student Support
• Provide individual and small-group tutoring in assigned STEM disciplines and/or writing.
• Assess student learning needs and adapt tutoring approaches to support individual learning styles and academic goals.
• Explain complex concepts clearly while encouraging critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent learning.
• Assist students in developing effective study habits, time management strategies, and academic confidence.
• Support students in understanding course expectations, preparing for examinations, and applying academic concepts.
• Maintain academic integrity by guiding students through coursework without completing assignments on their behalf.
• Discipline-Specific Tutoring depending on qualifications and assigned responsibilities
• Provide STEM tutoring in mathematics, science, and related disciplines, emphasizing conceptual understanding and problem-solving strategies.
• Support students throughout the writing process, including brainstorming, organization, thesis development, revision, and editing strategies.
• Assist students with academic writing conventions, citation practices, and appropriate use of research materials.
• Help students develop transferable skills that support success across courses and academic disciplines.
• Collaboration and Student Engagement
• Collaborate with faculty and Learning Commons staff to identify student learning needs and provide appropriate academic support.
• Refer students to additional tutoring services, library resources, faculty, or campus support services as appropriate.
• Foster a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for students from diverse academic backgrounds.
• Promote student engagement with Learning Commons academic support services.

Administrative and Professional Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate tutoring records and appointment documentation using designated scheduling software.
• Communicate professionally and promptly with students and staff regarding appointments, scheduling, and academic support needs.
• Participate in required tutor training, meetings, and professional development.
• Maintain student confidentiality in accordance with FERPA and institutional policies.
• Follow established Learning Commons procedures and Columbia College policies.
• Assist with academic support initiatives and other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent college coursework in a STEM discipline, English, writing, education, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated proficiency in at least one designated tutoring area: STEM or writing.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to explain academic concepts clearly and adapt instruction to individual student needs.
• Demonstrated professionalism, reliability, and commitment to student success.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an academic environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant academic discipline.
• Previous experience in tutoring, teaching, academic support, or related instruction.
• Experience supporting college students, adult learners, or students from diverse academic backgrounds.
• Experience providing academic writing assistance or tutoring in mathematics and science.
• Familiarity with learning strategies and instructional approaches that support diverse learners.
• Experience with online tutoring platforms and academic scheduling software.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in the Stafford Learning Commons, designated campus tutoring locations, or virtually as assigned. Scheduling is based on student demand and institutional needs and may include evening hours.

Physical Requirements

Ability to perform essential job duties in an academic environment, including using computers and instructional technology and communicating with students in person or virtually, with or without reasonable accommodation. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit for long periods of time, talk, and hear. The employee is required to use hands and fingers to handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, or crawl. Employee must be able to type on a computer keyboard and use a computer monitor on a regular basis. The noise level in the work environment is usually mild.