STEP Program Advisor - Middle Schools

The Program Advisor for the Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP) provides individualized and group support to middle school participants and their families, fostering students' academic success, motivation, and sustained engagement in the STEP program. This position plays a key role in encouraging students' curiosity, persistence, and confidence as they explore pathways toward higher education and careers in scientific, technical, health-related, and licensed professions. During the academic year, the Program Advisor meets regularly with students at partner schools to discuss academic progress, set goals, and develop strategies for success. The Advisor also coordinates and facilitates after-school tutoring, enrichment, and mentoring activities that align with STEP's mission to prepare historically underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students for post-secondary achievement.

The Program Advisor builds and sustains strong relationships with school personnel, families, and community partners to ensure that each student's experience is holistic and well-supported. Working collaboratively with STEP colleagues, the Einhorn Center for Community Engagement, and Cornell University students and staff, the Advisor helps design and deliver engaging academic-year and summer programming that cultivates students' sense of belonging, academic readiness, and long-term commitment to their goals.

Please Note: This is a 10.5-month position that works from late August to early July, 30 hours per week, and requires regular weekend work (approximately 1-2 Saturdays per month) as well as occasional evening hours. Typical schedule during the school year will be 10am-4pm, Monday through Friday. There is no visa sponsorship for this position.

Success Factors

• Being a team player, with proven ability to interact with middle school and high school students and all levels of staff and constituents from a wide range of communities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work with a diverse population with multiple goals
• Impeccable organization and the ability to prioritize

While position responsibilities vary, every member of our community is expected to foster a culture of belonging and a healthy work environment by communicating across differences; being cooperative, collaborative, open, and welcoming; showing respect, compassion, and empathy; engaging and supporting others regardless of background or perspective; speaking up when others are being excluded or treated inappropriately; and supporting work/life integration of oneself and others.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 2 years of experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience working with middle school-aged students with a strong commitment to outstanding student service, support, and mentorship.
• Demonstrated ability to manage group behavior, maintain student engagement, and foster a safe, inclusive learning environment for youth.
• Demonstrated maturity and sound judgment, with the ability to work independently while maintaining strong partnerships with supervisors and partners.
• Demonstrated experience implementing and upholding policies, procedures, and behavioral expectations for youth participants, applying consistent, well-reasoned judgement and ensuring full compliance with program requirements.
• Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.
• Proven reliability and professionalism, with the ability to manage time and multiple priorities independently.
• Proficient in Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace apps and tools.
• Reliable transportation and valid NYS Driver's license with a clean driving record for 3+ years.
• Position requires evening and weekend availability throughout the year.

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree in Education, Human Development or STEM related field
• Experience with college admissions, advising and/or financial aid.
• Demonstrated experience with academic and social-emotional youth development practices
• Certification or training in Youth Mental Health First Aid, Positive Youth Development, or trauma-informed practices.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and facilitating after-school or out-of-school time programs that meet program objectives.
• Experience planning and managing youth on off-site field trips with a focus on student safety and efficient logistics
• Experience with institutional driving programs and requirements including a comfort with transporting students in passenger vans in cities and on highways.

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