Assistant Director

Department:

Office of Academic Opportunity Programs

The Office of Academic Opportunity Programs (AOP) at UMBC is dedicated to expanding access to higher education and supporting the academic success of first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented students. AOP administers multiple federally funded TRIO programs, including Upward Bound, Upward Bound Math and Science, Educational Talent Search, McNair Scholars, and Student Support Services. Through academic advising, mentoring, research engagement, and college access initiatives, AOP empowers students to excel academically, persist through degree completion, and pursue advanced degrees. The office is part of the Division of Undergraduate Academic Affairs and plays a central role in UMBC’s commitment to inclusive excellence and student success.

Position Overview:

The Assistant Director of Student Support Services (SSS) in the Office of Academic Opportunity Programs (AOP) provides leadership in planning, coordinating, and implementing activities that promote the academic success, persistence, and graduation of first-generation, low-income, and students with disabilities at UMBC. Under the direction of the Director of Student Support Services, the Assistant Director oversees day-to-day operations of key program components, including academic advising, mentoring, skills development workshops, and student engagement initiatives. The Assistant Director is responsible for monitoring participant progress, ensuring compliance with federal TRIO regulations, and maintaining accurate data for reporting and evaluation. This role collaborates closely with campus partners in academic affairs, student affairs, and financial aid to ensure SSS participants have equitable access to institutional resources. The Assistant Director also contributes to strategic planning, staff supervision, and program assessment efforts aimed at meeting and exceeding federally funded project objectives.

Why Work at UMBC?

UMBC offers competitive compensation.  This role starts at $67,000 and has over 4 weeks of vacation for regular full-time roles. Tuition remission is also available.

What is it like to work at UMBC?  Check out Glassdoor or Indeed.

For 16 years in a row, UMBC has been recognized as a Great College to Work For! 

Telework:

A hybrid telework schedule may be available. 

Responsibilities:

The Assistant Director for TRIO Student Support Services plays a key role in supporting the success of first-generation, low-income, and students with disabilities at UMBC. In this position, you will:

• Provide holistic academic advising, personal coaching, and mentoring to help students navigate college and achieve their academic and career goals.

• Lead recruitment and onboarding of SSS participants and support outreach and retention efforts that promote persistence and graduation.

• Design and facilitate engaging workshops on academic skills, financial literacy, graduate/professional school preparation, and cultural enrichment.

• Monitor student progress, maintain accurate records, and assist with assessment, data collection, and federal performance reporting.

• Collaborate with campus partners—including tutoring, counseling, financial aid, and career services—to ensure coordinated student support.

• Supervise and develop peer mentors, student workers, and program staff involved in SSS programming.

• Assist the Director in implementing and evaluating all components of the SSS program while ensuring compliance with federal TRIO regulations.