Adult Student Services Specialist

This position plays a crucial role in engaging and supporting prospective and current adult learners at Grand Valley State University (GVSU). This role is responsible for providing guidance to adult students as they explore education options, connect with academic resources, and transition into their programs. This position serves as a primary point of contact for adult learners, ensuring they receive high-quality, personalized support tailored to their unique educational and career goals.

Salary & Benefits:

Minimum starting salary of $47,000, commensurate with experience.

Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, life insurance, generous employer retirement contributions, wellness resources and tuition waiver effective on date of hire.

Student Engagement & Support:

• Serve as a primary resource for prospective adult students, providing guidance on program selection, transfer opportunities, and resources specific to the student’s needs.
• Conduct one-on-one advising sessions with adult learners to assess their needs and direct them to relevant university services.
• Assist students in navigating financial options, credit transfers, and academic policies.
• Develop and implement initiatives that improve adult student retention and success.

Collaboration with Internal Stakeholders:

• Work closely with admissions, academic advisors, and faculty to streamline adult student transitions from inquiry to enrollment to completion.
• Partner with student services and other GVSU units to ensure adult learners have access to comprehensive support resources.
• Provide feedback to university leadership on challenges and opportunities affecting adult learners.

Outreach & Recruitment Support:

• Support the Director of Adult Student Engagement and Support in executing targeted outreach strategies to attract adult learners.
• Represent GVSU at community events, corporate partnership meetings, and recruitment fairs focused on adult education.
• Develop and maintain relationships with prospective students through proactive communication and follow-up.

Data Tracking & Process Improvement:

• Track student inquiries, engagement, and enrollment progress to identify trends and improve service delivery.
• Utilize data to assess the effectiveness of outreach and support initiatives, making recommendations for continuous improvement.
• Maintain accurate records of student interactions and support services provided.

Other Duties:

• Perform other duties as required/assigned by leadership.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Bachelor’s degree in education, counseling, or a related field.
• Minimum of two to four (2-4 ) years of experience in student services, academic advising, or enrollment management.
• Strong understanding of adult learner needs and barriers to higher education.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to provide empathetic and solution-oriented support.
• Experience working in a fast-paced environment that requires multi-tasking and collaboration.
• Proficiency in student information systems and customer relationship management (CRM) tools.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented.
• Passionate about supporting adult learners and fostering student success.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive and solution-focused mindset.
• Collaborative team player with a commitment to continuous improvement.

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Experience in higher education, workforce development, or adult education programs.
• Familiarity with financial aid processes, credit transfer policies, and academic advising best practices.
• Demonstrated success in working with diverse student populations and adult learners.

How to Apply: Attach your cover letter and resume. The system will allow you to attach these documents electronically. If you have questions about the position or the posting, please contact Jackie Abeyta (abeytaj@gvsu.edu or 616-331-7605). If you need technical assistance, please contact Human Resources at hro@gvsu.edu.

Work hours: Typically Monday through Friday 8 am - 5 pm, some later evenings and weekends may be required.

Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without the need of an employer sponsorship) on or before th