Position Summary
The TRIO Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) Academic Coach at Arkansas State University Mid-South is responsible for providing academic, career, and financial aid advising to eligible adult participants across Crittenden, Shelby, and St. Francis counties. This role supports low-income, first-generation, and underrepresented individuals in accessing and succeeding in postsecondary education or workforce training programs. Services are provided through individual counseling, workshops, and strategic community outreach. This position reports to the TRIO Director of EOC.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Provide one-on-one academic, career, and financial aid advising (including FAFSA completion).
- Guide participants through college and career training application processes.
- Deliver workshops on topics such as financial literacy, college readiness, and career planning.
- Collaborate with community organizations, adult education centers, high schools, and workforce offices to recruit and serve eligible individuals.
- Maintain detailed and confidential participant records in accordance with federal TRIO guidelines.
- Refer participants to supportive services, GED programs, and employment training opportunities.
- Contribute to program performance reports and ensure compliance with U.S. Department of Education regulations.
- Participate in program staff development, evaluation, and planning activities.
- Meet monthly service delivery goals.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in education, counseling, social work, psychology, or a related field.
- Experience working with low-income, first-generation, or adult populations.
- Familiarity with higher education systems, financial aid processes, and workforce development.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and standard data entry tools.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in counseling, higher education, or related field.
- Experience with TRIO or similar federally funded educational programs.
- Familiarity with Student Access, Blumen, or other TRIO data management systems.
- Knowledge of educational and economic challenges in the Arkansas Delta region.
Job Competencies
- Advising & Counseling – Guides individuals through decisions, goal-setting, and personal development.
- Initiative & Accountability – Works independently and meets service goals and deadlines.
- Data Management – Maintains accurate, confidential records and supports federal reporting.
- Communication – Communicates clearly with participants, partners, and internal teams.
- Outreach & Recruitment – Proactively identifies and engages eligible participants.
- Problem Solving – Assists participants in overcoming barriers to education and training.
- Team Collaboration – Supports shared program goals through effective teamwork and partnerships.
Work Environment & Conditions
- Frequent travel required throughout the three-county service area.
- Some evening and weekend hours may be necessary.
- The position is grant-funded.
Proposed Salary: $38,250. Arkansas State University Mid-South offers a competitive benefit package that includes retirement, health, life, dental & disability insurance, flex benefit plan, and educational discounts for employee and family.
Proposed State Date: Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Position is contingent upon renewal of the TRIO EOC Grant.
Please note that ASU Mid-South requires a criminal background check as part of the employment process, as well as a driver’s license verification.
Application materials must include an ASU Mid-South Employment Application to include three professional references, a letter of interest in the position, a resume, and a copy of all applicable college transcripts. Please submit all requested materials to:
Arkansas State University Mid-South
ATTN: Lisa Haggard
2000 West Broadway
West Memphis, AR 72301
870-733-6719 (Fax) or email to humanresources@asumidsouth.edu
ASU Mid-South and the Arkansas State University System are Equal Opportunity Employers.
