Retention Specialist

UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment : Apply by 8/28/2026 for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.

Reassignment Applicants : Eligible Reassignment clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.

The Retention Specialist works in support of and under the supervision of the CASP director and is responsible for planning, coordinating, and assisting the Director in the development of a comprehensive retention strategy, identifying and providing support to the assigned student population. Responsibilities are time sensitive in January, May, June, August and December each year. The Retention Specialist will assist the Director and collaborates with campus partners to support the development of comprehensive academic interventions strategies and provide intentional support to students no longer enrolled at UC San Diego, in addition to students on academic probation, disqualified or dismissed from the University for various reasons. Additionally, the Retention Specialist will support students who are considered "at-risk" prior to matriculation. The incumbent conducts ongoing thorough reviews of student data within each specific cohort to analyze and identify common trends resulting in impacted academic progress, retention numbers and patterns, and identifies intrusive, solution-centered recommendations and outreach to students to decrease the rate of occurrence. The incumbent also works collaboratively with the Colleges including, but not limited to, the Deans of Academic Advising to provide academic advisement and information on university policies, procedures, and graduation requirements to the assigned student population by utilizing, problem-solving approach, rather than a prescriptive application, to support students in retention, closing the achievement gap and degree completion.

• Knowledge of the theories and practice of counseling, learning, human and career development. Graduation from college with major work in counseling or a related field and two years of related experience in a college-level student support service, preferably in a learning skills service, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Knowledge of personal growth and development areas, including critical thinking, effective communication, self-appraisal, self-esteem, clarification of values, appropriate career choices, and leadership. Skill and experience in the development, implementation and evaluation of educational, cultural, and social programs in a higher education environment that reflect the needs of a diverse student population.

• Knowledge of the methodologies used to enhance student achievement. Knowledge of theories and principles of higher education and student development with ability to interpret and implement policies and procedures.

• Knowledge of trends and issues facing low-income and first-generation college, underrepresented, disadvantaged, physically challenged, and under prepared students in higher education. Skill in using effective strategies for designing, planning, and implementing academic support programs for underrepresented, multicultural and other non-traditional college students.

• Knowledge and experience in analyzing problems and identifying solutions for problem-solving; skills and experience in developing and administering programs. Solid analytical skills in identifying areas for improvement and developing innovative solutions. Ability to recognize problems, conflicts and/or impact on others, research options, present alternatives, implement solutions, and ensure goals are met.

• Familiarity with research methodologies and research designs. Ability to compile and analyze data, and prepare a summary and/or statistical reports and instructional materials with attention to detail and accuracy.

• Knowledge of federal, state, and local requirements to provide for access, health, confidentiality, and safety; legal and ethical issues governing the delivery of counseling services.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills including tact, diplomacy, and confidentiality, with ability to maintain a calm and professional demeanor while interacting with a variety of individuals and groups at all levels of the university community from diverse socio-economic to cultural/ethnic backgrounds.

• Excellent organizational skills. Excellent organizational and time management skills to establish goals and prioritize workload of self and others; ability to meet deadlines; ability to work efficiently and effectively on multiple projects with competing deadlines; flexibility in dealing with people and competing demands; ability to manage details of complex projects and events and to independently follow through to successful completion.

• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.

• Duties may require direct contact with children (defined as individuals under the age of 18). Completion of the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA) form will be required.

• May work evenings and occasional weekends in support of programs and events.

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: Unclassified - No data available (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: Unclassified - No data available

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).