RETENTION SPECIALIST #00081024

Student Success

About the Division: The Division of Student Success consists of 15 areas including: athletics & recreation, academic support services, academic advising, Kummer student design center, retention initiatives, study abroad, student health services, student well-being, accessibility & testing, inclusion & engagement, community standards, residential life, student involvement, career opportunities & employer relations, and family & friends.

Join us in creating a supportive and effective learning environment at Missouri S&T!

The Office of Academic Achievement and Enrichment within the Division of Student Success at Missouri S&T is seeking a Retention Specialist. This role aims to enhance student experiences and institutional accountability by leveraging higher education expertise to improve success outcomes for students through data-driven approaches.

The Retention Specialist will assist students with tailored course planning and goal setting, ensuring a successful transition into college, especially for those with higher risk factors. They will monitor the academic progress of all at-risk students, maintain records and employ effective engagement techniques and college preparedness strategies to promote retention and graduation rates. Collaboration with faculty, counselors, and other university staff is essential to provide necessary resources and interventions that support student achievement.

The primary goal of the Retention Specialist is to retain students by strategically inspiring and enhancing the academic performance of first and second-year students.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyze student performance data using systems like Starfish Analytics, S&T Connect, and Canvas to identify risk factors and develop targeted interventions
• Serve as an active and prominent member of UCARE to assist students with their academic and social success
• Lead and expand the Cornerstone Peers group and bridge programming, while developing and promoting summer preparatory programs that support academic and social growth
• Collaborate with faculty, counselors, and staff to support first-year students in course planning, goal setting, and academic progress monitoring
• Streamline a first-year success course that covers essential topics such as organization, time management, and personal advocacy
• Implement proactive strategies to improve retention and graduation rates, including managing reports of academic probation and facilitating communication with at-risk students
• Develop and monitor the academic probation system and lead the university's Committee on Academic Success
• Identify bottlenecks in student support systems and optimize resource allocation to ensure timely assistance
• Develop and execute initiatives, events, and policies that align with university objectives, enhancing student engagement and success
• Foster relationships with department leaders and national consortia to ensure alignment with innovative best practices in retention and academic support

The role may require occasional evening or weekend work for meetings, events, or special projects.

A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 6 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary

• Master's degree and experience with student-focused programs
• Strong analytical skills, ability to manage sensitive information, and proficiency in data management systems
• Commitment to supporting at-risk student populations and fostering a collaborative university environment
• Foundational knowledge in college and career readiness; data analysis skills

The anticipated hiring range for this position has been established as $68,200-$76,164 annually.

Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual's particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Grade: GGS 12
University Title: ADMINISTRATIVE CONSULTANT II
To review the University of Missouri's Staff Compensation Structure you can view the Job Code detail page. Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Applications will be accepted until this position is filled.

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Values Commitment

We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person's success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.

In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research, and engagement.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy applies to all employment decisions including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, promotions, pay practices, benefits, disciplinary actions and terminations. For more information, visit https://www.umsystem.edu/ums/hr/eeo or call Human Resources at 573-341-4241.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Office of Equity & Title IX at 573-341-7734.