Title: GEARUP Program Coordinator

VP Area: Admissions & Marketing

Department: Admissions

Published Salary Range: 41,133

Job Summary/Basic Function:

SUMMARY

The GEAR UP Program Coordinator advances Lake Superior State University’s mission by leading federal and state-funded efforts that expand college access, promote student success, and increase career readiness for underrepresented youth. Through management of the KCP College Day and GEAR UP programs, this position designs and delivers intentional programming that supports secondary students, particularly those from partner schools and tribal communities, in preparing for and transitioning to higher education.

Reporting to the Assistant Director of Admissions, Outreach & Events, the GEAR UP Program Coordinator builds strong school and community partnerships, develops college-preparation activities, and ensures compliance with all grant and reporting requirements. The position works closely with K–12 leaders, university staff, and external stakeholders to foster college-going pathways that reflect LSSU’s values of access, equity, and educational opportunity.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design and implement grant-aligned college access, academic enrichment, career awareness, and student success initiatives for GEAR UP and KCP College Day program participants.
• Monitor, analyze, and report on student participation, academic performance, and college readiness benchmarks as required by GEAR UP and KCP grant requirements.
• Develop and coordinate on-campus experiences, including visits, workshops, and summer programming, that connect students with faculty, staff, and LSSU’s student support services.
• Oversee program logistics, including transportation, permissions, meals, lodging (when applicable), and risk management protocols.
• Manage all program budgets, reporting, invoicing, and compliance requirements in collaboration with university grants and finance staff.
• Attend and contribute to community and charter school meetings relevant to college access initiatives.
• Collaborate with the LSSU Admissions and Outreach team to align program goals with university enrollment strategies.
• Train and supervise student workers and volunteers supporting program delivery.
• Support other campus outreach and yield efforts as assigned, especially those aimed at underserved populations.’
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in education, counseling, social work, higher education, or a related field.
• At least one year of experience working with K–12 schools, youth programs, or college access initiatives.
• Strong interpersonal communication and relationship-building skills, especially with diverse populations.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects, meet deadlines, and work independently.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); experience with CRM or student information systems (e.g., Banner) preferred.
• Willingness to work occasional evenings or weekends and travel to partner schools or events.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Two or more years of experience working with first-generation students, underrepresented youth, or tribal education systems.
• Familiarity with federal and state grant programs such as GEAR UP, TRIO, or KCP initiatives.
• Experience facilitating workshops or youth development programming.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS

• Ability to maintain a flexible and demanding schedule with occasional travel.
• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times (e.g., event materials).
• Requires mental focus, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Must be able to adapt to changing needs in a fast-paced and student-centered environment.

Work Hours: 

M-F, 8am - 5pm / Nights & weekends as available