Talent Search Advisor

Overview

TRIO Talent Search at the University of South Dakota has an opening for a full time 10-month position of advisor at the Todd County and White River Schools in the towns of Mission and White River, SD. This position is off contract mid-June through mid-August. This position assists Talent Search participants in the identification, preparation, and attainment of their educational goals. Talent Search participants will finish high school in the standard four years, graduate, and enroll in postsecondary education the following fall.

The Advisor Will

• Maintain a cooperative relationship with the target schools (Todd County and White River) and the communities of Mission and White River, SD through visits with students and collaboration with the schools, staff, and parents.
• Meet with Talent Search participants each week in class and/or small group meetings and/or individual visits.
• Plan and carry out activities designed to help students succeed in school, graduate from high school and enroll in postsecondary education.
• Provide academic assistance including study skills and goal setting activities and, encourage, conduct, or arrange tutoring as needed.
• Collect and disseminate information regarding postsecondary institutions, student financial aid, admissions, housing, and academic assistance programs.
• Arrange campus visits to colleges for TRIO Talent Search participants.
• Be available to meet with students’ parents through letters, personal visits, parent teacher conferences or other activities.
• Maintain a record keeping system including student files to document student assistance and counselor activity.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in education, social services, counseling, business administration or related field is required
• Experience: Previous work with students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Other Skills And Abilities

• Knowledge of Native American and disadvantaged student populations, secondary and postsecondary education requirements, and ability to relate to middle school, secondary, postsecondary students, and adults.
• Good communication skills
• Valid driver’s license (to attend staff meetings and professional development)
• Good computer skills
• Ability to apply education models and good teaching practices in the classroom.

Posting Dates and Details

Posting Date: 05/15/2025
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
First Consideration Date: 05/29/2025
Advertised Salary: commensurate with qualifications
Duration of the Term: 10 months
Appointment Percent: 100
Work Hours: Irregular work hours in Mission and White River, SD.
Appointment Type: Regular

Faculty Status: No
Scope of Search: External (includes Internal)
Travel: This position requires Travel, Valid Drivers License

Department Description and Cultural Expectations

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

USD is committed to fostering a dynamic and welcoming working and learning environment for all. USD provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to ideological, political, or sectarian opinions or perspectives; or race, color, creed, religion, sex, ancestry, disability, national origin, or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. USD is committed to the principles of free expression and encourages the timely and rational discussion of topics in an environment that is intellectually and ideologically diverse.

Documents Needed to Apply

Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Reference List

Optional Documents

• Other