College Access & Readiness Coach

Job Summary We are seeking a dynamic and passionate College Access & Readiness Coach to empower students on their journey toward higher education. In this role, you will serve as a dedicated mentor and guide, helping students navigate the college application process, develop essential academic and life skills, and build confidence for future success. Your energetic approach will inspire students to reach their full potential, ensuring they are well-prepared for college and beyond. This paid position offers an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact in students' lives while fostering their academic and personal growth.

Responsibilities:

The Postsecondary Pathway Coach will… Senior Advising & Postsecondary Planning Provide senior year advising and tracking, including training implementation from internal staff and partner institutions Develop detailed postsecondary plans for all seniors Ensure the successful completion of all college/trade applications aligned with each student's selected pathway Drive clarity and commitment to a postsecondary decision aligned with each student's career goals Facilitate student preparation for taking the SAT/ACT. Program Compliance & Intervention Track and report student compliance with Take Stock in Children program requirements, including academic performance, attendance, and behavior, on a quarterly basis. Utilize the School District's FOCUS information system to access and review student data (e.g., attendance and behavioral incidents). Identify and intervene when students are non-compliant with program requirements, including direct communication with parents/guardians and documenting Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs) in HOPEforce. Career & Pathway Development Administer and interpret career assessments, including interest, strengths, and personality inventories Guide students in selecting a career pathway aligned with their interests, goals, and strengths, including identifying appropriate majors or certifications Educate students on the return on investment (ROI) of various postsecondary options, including college degrees, technical programs, and trades Provide insight into labor market trends and in-demand careers, with a focus on opportunities in Manatee County Support students in evaluating and selecting postsecondary pathways, including college, trade programs, military service, or direct entry into the workforce Scholarships & Financial Aid Support Oversee and manage all scholarship opportunities distributed through the State Office and outside agencies, including identification, tracking, and support of eligible students for awards such as Outstanding Senior, Leader for Life, etc Support students in identifying and applying for additional scholarship opportunities Coordinate and host a minimum of two FAFSA workshops to ensure completion Ensure Florida Prepaid accounts are activated for eligible seniors Workshops, Events & Engagement Plan and facilitate summer meetings for rising seniors Organize and lead at least two senior workshops, including financial literacy sessions Lead coordination efforts for the Senior Summit events Collaborate with the coaching team to conduct on-campus meetings (minimum of two meetings per senior) Other duties as assigned. Performs additional tasks and responsibilities as needed to support program goals and ensure overall team and organizational success. Conduct a minimum of four individualized coaching meetings per year for all 11th and 12th-grade students (twice per semester). Assist with the planning and facilitation of student recruitment efforts for high school scholars. Mentor Collaboration & Recruitment Assist with the recruitment of new mentors to support high school scholars. Collaborate with the Mentor Coordinator and volunteer mentors to ensure successful bi-weekly mentoring sessions and to address issues related to mentor-mentee relationships. Data, Communication & Tracking Administer senior surveys and manage accurate data collection and reporting Utilize a text messaging platform to send proactive, timely communication and reminders to seniors Ensure all CRC visits, communications with students, and mentor activities are accurately recorded in the HOPEforce student database at least monthly. Maintain accurate student files with all required documentation. Other Tasks and Duties as

Required:

Meet Balanced Scorecard (BSC) metrics and comply with State program expectations. Update staff scorecard data on a weekly basis. Fulfill additional roles and responsibilities as assigned.

Ultimate Goals:

Maximize Postsecondary Commitment and Success:

Ensure every 11th and 12th-grade student defines a clear, financially viable career pathway, secures their scholarships, and graduates with a committed, actionable plan for life after high school.

Ensure Program Compliance and Integrity:

Maintain 100% program fidelity and compliance with state requirements and Balanced Scorecard (BSC) metrics by proactively monitoring student eligibility, executing timely interventions (PIPs), and ensuring all student and mentor activities are accurately documented in HOPEforce.

Support Program Capacity and Growth:

Sustain and expand the program's foundation by contributing to the strategic recruitment of eligible high school scholars and assisting with the identification and onboarding of volunteer mentors.

Core Qualifications & Attributes:

Bachelor's degree required. 3-5 years of experience in student services or college access programs (advising experience preferred). Strong passion for the mission and proven ability to build supportive relationships with at-risk youth. Excellent communication, active listening, and professional relationship-building skills (in person, writing, and phone) with all stakeholders. Strong organizational, time management, and data tracking skills, including proficiency with HOPEforce and FOCUS data systems and Microsoft Office suite. Required availability for evening/weekend events and access to adequate transportation for regular travel.

Employment Eligibility:

Contingent on a clear thorough background check as required by law. Registration as a sex offender or conviction of a felony crime prohibits employment. Required documentation includes proof of employment eligibility, past employment resume, and two completed reference forms. Employees work in office and school environments, with travel to school sites and colleges. The role requires frequent sitting, standing, and walking across school campuses. Join us in transforming lives by opening doors to higher education! This role is perfect for energetic professionals passionate about mentoring students, fostering academic achievement, and promoting equitable access to college opportunities.

Pay:

$28.00 - $36.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) matching Paid time off Professional development assistance

Work Location:

Hybrid remote in Palmetto, FL 34221