Job Type Full-time Description Job Title: High Potential Success CoachDepartment: High Potential Program Reports To: Director, High Potential and TRIO SSS FLSA Status: Exempt Position Type: Full-Time Date Prepared: July 21, 2025 Position Summary The High Potential (HP) Success Coach serves as a key member of the TRIO Student Support Services team, a federally funded program dedicated to the academic success of first-generation, low-income, and/or students with disabilities at Saint Mary's College of California. Reporting to the Director of the High Potential Program, the Success Coach provides individualized, holistic, and culturally responsive support throughout a student's undergraduate experience. Through strengths-based coaching, tailored interventions, and proactive outreach, the Success Coach works to increase student persistence, academic performance, and graduation outcomes for TRIO/HP participants. Essential Duties and Responsibilities1. Student Success Coaching (80%)
- Serve as the assigned Success Coach for a caseload of first-third year TRIO/HP students.
- Provide proactive, personalized, and culturally aware coaching that supports students' academic, personal, and professional development.
- Develop individualized success plans and support students in setting and achieving realistic academic and life goals.
- Monitor academic performance and engagement through regular check-ins, college systems, and data tracking.
- Maintain confidential student records, referrals, and notes in accordance with grant and institutional guidelines.
- Refer students to relevant campus and community resources and coordinate wraparound support.
- Utilize strengths-based, trauma-informed, and equity-centered practices in all student interactions.
2. Student Engagement & Program Support (10%)
- Collaborate with HP staff and Peer Mentors to plan and implement year-round programming, including the SAILS summer bridge program.
- Conduct workshops on student success topics such as time management, study skills, wellness, and leadership.
- Support students' sense of belonging through community-building initiatives, family engagement, and culturally affirming events.
- Assist with budget monitoring and planning for assigned initiatives and programming efforts.
- Provide a consistent, accessible presence in the HP office to foster trust and visibility.
3. Advocacy and Institutional Outreach (5%)
- Champion the needs and experiences of first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented students through campus collaboration and committee work.
- Partner with academic departments, Student Life, and campus programs to support coordinated care and academic success.
- Support student involvement in college-wide activities, graduation celebrations, and leadership development opportunities.
4. Professional Development (5%)
- Stay informed on trends and best practices in student coaching, success strategies, equity in education, and TRIO programming.
- Participate in trainings, conferences, and professional associations to enhance effectiveness and impact.
5. Other Duties as AssignedQualificationsEducation
- Required: Master's degree in counseling, psychology, higher education, social work, or a related human services field.
- Preferred: Bilingual (Spanish); additional coursework or training in educational equity, academic advising, or college student development.
Experience
- Required: 2-3 years of experience in higher education or non-profit student support.
- Preferred: At least 1-3 years working with first-generation, low-income, and/or students with disabilities.
Skills & Abilities
- Demonstrated cultural competence and experience working with diverse populations.
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
- Strong organizational, analytical, and data tracking skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team-based, student-centered environment.
- High emotional intelligence and the ability to build trusting relationships with students and stakeholders.
Working Conditions & Expectations
- Occasional evening and weekend work required.
- May require limited travel or participation in off-campus events.
- Must be able to sit and use a computer for extended periods.
- Expected to manage confidential student information with discretion and care.
Additional Information
- Exempt: Yes
- Student Supervision: Coordinates with 7 Peer Mentors, but does not directly supervise staff.
- Budget Responsibility: Assists in tracking and planning for assigned programs and workshops.
Requirements QualificationsEducation
- Required: Master's degree in counseling, psychology, higher education, social work, or a related human services field.
- Preferred: Bilingual (Spanish); additional coursework or training in educational equity, academic advising, or college student development.
Experience
- Required: 2-3 years of experience in higher education or non-profit student support.
- Preferred: At least 1-3 years working with first-generation, low-income, and/or students with disabilities.
Skills & Abilities
- Demonstrated cultural competence and experience working with diverse populations.
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
- Strong organizational, analytical, and data tracking skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team-based, student-centered environment.
- High emotional intelligence and the ability to build trusting relationships with students and stakeholders.
Salary Description 70,000-72,000