Learning Skills Specialist

Job Summary

Under the direction of the Dean or designee, the Learning Skills Specialist will counsel students in areas such as learning and study strategies, time management, and test-taking skills, both in the pre-clinical and clinical curriculum, as well as preparation for licensing exams. The Specialist will effectively advise students on developing the academic skills necessary for success in medical school. A primary focus of this role will be assisting students in preparing for national licensing examinations (COMLEX-USA series and USMLE Step exams), as well as developing strategies for succeeding in the medical school curriculum. In addition, the Specialist will support faculty by providing insight into learning theory, thereby enabling the development of higher-quality instruction and assessment. The Specialist should also be able to incorporate stress management, mindfulness, concentration, and well-being strategies into academic counseling sessions. This position requires close collaboration with the WesternU COMP & COMP-Northwest Offices of Academic Affairs (OAA) and Student Affairs (OSA), as well as the WesternU Learning Enhancement & Academic Development (LEAD) office.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge:

• Must be knowledgeable in mindfulness, well-being, and coping strategies.
• Knowledge of best practices in medical education, learning science and licensure exam trends.

Skills:

• Demonstrate strong presentation and facilitation skills, including experience in public speaking, group facilitation, and audience engagement.
• Demonstrate strong teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively and exhibit a collegial, cooperative spirit.
• Demonstrate strong organizational skills and be able to provide accurate reporting of meeting times, dates, content, and student participation.
• Demonstrate advanced computer skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, and Publisher.
• Demonstrate experience working in academic settings with students under performance pressure, including a proven ability to address crises and provide stress-management support.

Abilities:

• Able to effectively utilize the Internet for professional responsibilities.
• Able to learn and use the learning management systems (LMS) employed by the College.
• Ability to work autonomously and productively, managing time efficiently, collecting and analyzing data, and completing tasks/projects with multiple and shifting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Committed to working in an organization that values and promotes humanism.

Required Qualifications

Education:

• A bachelor’s degree in education or related field required.

Experience:

• Knowledge of adult learning theory and evidence-based health and well-being models.
• Familiarity with organizing and electronically managing large amounts of data. Demonstrated expertise in providing academic support services to students and demonstrated effectiveness in working with diverse cohorts expected.
• Familiarity with the basics of a health profession curriculum and content delivery in this environment, including being able to help students succeed in a fast-paced learning environment taught by large number of faculty.
• Familiarity with the various resources available to help students prepare for their medical licensing exams.

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• A master’s degree in education or a related field.
• National Academic Advising Association or National College Learning Center Association certification

Experience:

• It is preferred that the candidate demonstrate aspects of being a lifelong learner, highly energetic and with a passion for higher education. Additionally, would exhibit a willingness to learn, adaptability and flexibility to work according to the workload, including some nights and weekends.

Posting Date:

10/31/2025

Closing Date:

10/31/2026

Essential Job Duties

To apply, visit https://jobs.westernu.edu/postings/34798