Program Services Specialist- Basic Needs

Under general supervision, to provide administrative, liaison and program support services for students in specialized College programs; and to perform related duties as assigned.This classification performs administrative, technical and office support work in coordinating one or more of the College's student support services programs, working with a program manager. Responsibilities of this class include student and program advocacy, outreach and recruitment, and administrative functions such as budget projection and monitoring, maintaining and updating detailed records and financial accounts, and preparing periodic and special reports including those to the Chancellor's office. Assignments require incumbents to exercise judgment within established program and College guidelines. This class differs from Senior Program Services Specialist in that the latter independently provides such support for the most complex and critical programs.

Ideal Candidate:
Gavilan College is committed to recruiting individuals that embody our Principles of Community by:

• actively demonstrating a commitment to embracing and celebrating diversity.
• committing to collaboration, effective communication and the development of strong working relationships.
• promoting purposeful inclusion of all groups and the free exchange of ideas in a respectful, trusting and considerate environment
• demonstrating commitment to a college which prioritizes equity in resource allocation.

The ideal candidate for this role possesses an associate degree in social work, business, public administration, or a closely related field, or demonstrates equivalent experience through a diverse and dynamic background in student services or community-based work. They are highly adaptable and thrive in fast-paced environments, effectively balancing a wide range of responsibilities while maintaining a student-centered approach. This individual is skilled at supporting students in navigating basic needs services, including food, housing, transportation, and financial assistance, as well as connecting them to on- and off-campus community resources. They demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and provide compassionate, culturally responsive support to a diverse student population. 

The ideal candidate understands the critical connection between basic needs security and student success and is committed to reducing barriers that impact persistence and completion. They are detail-oriented and organized, with the ability to manage multiple tasks such as student intake, data tracking, outreach, and service coordination. 

Bilingual fluency in English and Spanish is required. 

Technical proficiency is essential, including experience with Microsoft 365, Ellucian Banner (or similar student information systems), basic webpage updates, and social media platforms.

• Serves as liaison with, and represents the college's program to, external agencies on matters related to program funding, inter-agency program cooperation, services to or needs of specific clients/students, mandates, referrals, and other cooperation and coordination; ·
• Serves as liaison and contact with college staff regarding student needs, assistance, status and progress, special accommodations, program capabilities and limitations, production of materials, and related program matters;
• Reads and interprets program regulations and drafts objectives, plans and procedures to ensure compliance;
• Drafts and monitors the budget for the assigned program area; maintains expenditure records and prepares reports; works with the business office to resolve discrepancies; performs special budget tracking related to funding requirements; prepares invoices;
• Collects, compiles, summarizes and analyzes program, student and client statistics; inputs to computer and maintains data bases for data tracking, reporting, communication, and outreach;
• Prepares a variety of informational and required reports on program statistics, services, and activities;
• Prepares a variety of written materials including correspondence, reports, brochures, publications, and other materials, working in collaboration with college departments and programs;
• Determines eligibility of students for program services and benefits;
• Recruits students for program services and college attendance through program benefits;
• Provides program orientations for students, and explains policies, procedures and requirements to students and others;
• · Monitors student/client status, needs and progress;
• Confers with, advises and assists students on a variety of school, personal and program related issues, decisions and processes and makes referrals;
• Identifies appropriate resources and services within the college and community, and assists students/clients by arranging appointments, assisting with applications, discussion with referral agency or individual, and other coordination;
• Makes presentations to various groups to promote program utilization and understanding of issues related to the program and the individuals it serves;
• Arranges or prepares and conducts special training for students/clients, college staff, and others;
• Coordinates special events related to the program such as conferences and workshops;
• Identifies, obtains and maintains special resources for students/clients served and staff;
• Attends, conducts and/or participates in a variety of committees and meetings;
• Provides a variety of responsible office support for the program.