Student Success Specialist

University of Pittsburgh   Pittsburgh, PA   Full-time     Education
Posted on April 4, 2024
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Student Success Specialist



The successful candidate for this position provides academic advising and success support for students enrolled in the online Master of Data Science program at the University of Pittsburgh. Engagements and interactions included but are not limited to academic advising, proactive outreach pertaining to student success, monitoring of academic progress, support with policies and procedures, review and support of interactions starting with completion of orientation all the way through review and preparation for graduation, and assistance with student engagement within the online course ecosystem in Coursera. The candidate will serve the entire population of students enrolled in the MDS, but the number of student success specialists on staff will be scalable to support the size of the population of active enrolled students.


Job Summary

Manages a program and improves student programs, services, and retention. Performs budgetary and grant functions. Manages daily office operations and operations for select services. Markets programs and services, presents workshops, and develops policies and procedures. Facilitates new student programming.


Essential Functions

New student setup – introduction to orientation, tracking engagement and completion of orientation.
Planning timeline, program requirements, and course availability with students.
Monitor course progress and send proactive outreach for students tagged at-risk.
Send program announcements and reminders to students about deadlines.
Review student activity and chatter in Slack for the purposes of academic integrity and student conduct.
Filing for graduation and student notification of graduation ceremony logistics.
Collaborate with other MDS personnel (Data Specialist, Student Success Lead, Academic Director, Course Facilitators, TAs, etc.) on student support and the resolution of student issues.


Physical Effort

Primarily sedentary. Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment.


The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.


The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.



Assignment Category: Full-time regular

Job Classification: Staff.Assistant Director - Student Program

Job Family: Academic & Student Services

Job Sub Family: Student Services

Campus: Pittsburgh

Minimum Education Level Required: Bachelor's Degree

Minimum Years of Experience Required: 5

Will this position accept substitution in lieu of education or experience: Combination of education and relevant experience will be considered in lieu of education and/ or experience requirement.

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 8:30-5:00pm

Work Arrangement: Monday-Friday 8:30-5:00pm

Hiring Range: TBD Based Upon Qualifications

Relocation_Offered: No

Visa Sponsorship Provided: No

Background Check: For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check

Child Protection Clearances: Not Applicable

Required Documents: Resume

Optional Documents: Not Applicable





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