Academic Advising and Retention Specialist

Temporary to Possible Hire

Hybrid | Lisle, IL (Onsite Monday-Thursday, Remote Fridays)

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

$23/hour

Are you passionate about helping students succeed and thrive? We're seeking an Advising & Retention Specialist to support students through proactive advising, financial guidance, and personalized support throughout their educational journey.

In this high-impact role, you'll serve as a trusted point of contact for students-helping remove barriers, improve retention, and ensure students stay on track academically, financially, and in healthcare compliance requirements. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys relationship-building, problem-solving, and making a meaningful difference in students' lives.

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  Guide students through academic advising, course registration, and program requirements, including practicum and healthcare compliance (as applicable)

  
  
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  Proactively monitor student progress using data and predictive indicators to identify at-risk scenarios and implement strategies to support persistence and graduation

  
  
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  Provide financial advising across the student lifecycle, including reviewing accounts, discussing eligibility, and helping students build and adjust financial plans

  
  
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  Partner closely with Student Support Liaisons and cross-functional teams to deliver coordinated, seamless student support

  
  
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  Advise students on university policies, procedures, self-service tools, and Title IV requirements

  
  
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  Support new student intake by answering enrollment-related questions, reviewing program costs, and presenting funding options

  
  
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  Engage students through multiple channels-virtual appointments, phone calls, email, SMS, and proactive outreach-to deliver first-contact resolution

  
  
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  Accurately document all student interactions and maintain enrollment, persistence, and graduation data within institutional systems

  
  
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  Respond to healthcare compliance questions, ensuring students understand and meet all required standards

  
  
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  Identify opportunities to improve processes, technology, and the overall student retention experience

  
  

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  Bachelor's degree required

  
  
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  2+ years of experience in customer service, academic advising, financial aid advising, higher education, or a related field (preferred)

  
  
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  Knowledge or ability to learn Title IV regulations, academic policies, and student finance processes

  
  
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  Outstanding customer service skills with a student-first mindset

  
  
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  Excellent written and verbal communication skills

  
  
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  Strong problem-solving ability with comfort making independent decisions

  
  
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  Highly organized, self-motivated, and able to manage multiple priorities

  
  
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  Proficiency with Microsoft tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Power BI, Copilot); experience with Student Information Systems a plus

  
  
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  Eligible to obtain and maintain access to NSLDS (must not be in default on Title IV aid)

  
  
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  Ability to work collaboratively across teams and with individuals at all levels

  
  

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Hunter Hamilton is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Hunter Hamilton offers reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities; contact your local branch for inquiries. Hunter Hamilton is an E-Verify employer. See our Privacy Notice for Candidates and Employees/Contractors at https://smgroupna.com/privacy-notice-for-candidates-and-employees-contractors. By applying, you consent to receive AI-generated and non-AI-generated calls, texts, or emails from Staffmark Group, its affiliates, and partners. Frequency varies and message/data rates may apply. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for help.