Education Assistance Specialist

The Education Assistance Specialist provides financial aid counseling and information to eligible students who are pursuing secondary or post-secondary degrees; assist Higher Education Supervisor with recruitment and retention efforts as assigned.

1. Establish and maintain liaison with high school personnel and serve as college resource for high school students.
2. Assist students in locating and applying for tribal scholarships and other financial aid.
3. Monitor student academic progress and assist those who are having academic or financial aid difficulties; counsel students on maintaining eligibility requirements of the program.
4. Assist with coordinating activities with those of other departments, outside agencies, and organizations; including educational institutions.
5. Keep detailed records of student educational activities; create and maintain database/case files on all clients; generate reports as required.
6. Maintain positive relationship with community members, provide program information, assist with planning, coordinate special activities, and education events.
7. Visit local high schools, colleges, universities, trade schools to provide financial counseling and information to students.
8. Arrange and conduct workshops, orientations, presentations, and tours.
9. Perform other duties of a similar nature or level as requested by supervisor or director.

Knowledge of:

• Tribal, federal and state educational rules and regulations that concern financial aid eligibility requirements;
• Educational and training resources;
• Financial aid programs such as scholarships, grant and loans;
• Yaqui culture, customs, resources and traditions and/or a willingness to learn.

Skills and Abilities:

• Excellent communication, public speaking, and writing skills;
• Handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines;
• Maintain confidentiality;
• Operate a variety of office equipment, including a computer and related software applications;
• Good communication and interpersonal skills as applied to interaction with co-workers, supervisor, management, Council members, and the public. Have ability to sufficiently exchange or convey information and receive verbal and written work instructions.

Associate's Degree plus one (1) year of related work experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.

• Bachelor's Degree in Education, Guidance Counseling or closely related field preferred.

Special Requirements:

• Proficient in Microsoft Office; 
• This position will require the incumbent to work non-traditional hours, nights, and weekends; 
• Must possess and maintain a valid Arizona Driver's License; 
• Must have a current Level 1 Arizona Clearance Card. Failure to maintain a current Level 1 Clearance Card will result in termination from this position.