Project Advisor or Project Coordinator (Multiple Positions) (Onsite)

Initial applicant review will begin on or around August 10th, 2026. Posting will remain open until filled.

About UC Merced

The University of California, Merced, is the newest of the University of California system's 10 campuses and one of the youngest universities to be designated an R1 research university. With approximately 9,100 undergraduate and graduate students, UC Merced is a smaller, more intimate campus compared to its sister campuses, while equipped and staffed as a cutting-edge, 21st-century research institution. Ranked in the top 30 among the best public universities in the nation by U.S. News and World Report and #1 for social mobility by the Wall Street Journal, UC Merced provides world-class educational opportunities to dynamic and enterprising students in the San Joaquin Valley and throughout the state.

In partnership with UC San Francisco, UC Merced has launched a rigorous medical education program to supply the Valley with culturally competent providers dedicated to improving local access to quality care. The campus enjoys a special connection with nearby Yosemite National Park, is on the cutting edge of sustainability in construction and design, and is accelerating the continued economic development of the region.

About the Role

Under the direction of a K-12 Academic Preparation Specialist IV, works with assigned institutions and organizations to implement academic preparation programming of moderate scope. The incumbent maintains program visibility in schools, collaborative relationships with K-12 institutions and/or community entities, and relationships with higher education institutions.

Responsibilities

• Recruits and enrolls 6th – 12th-grade students for program participation.
• Provides academic development and support through program services tied to program outcomes/objectives.
• Supports preparation of monthly activity summaries detailing results and assessments; ensures timely entry of daily, workshop, and campus visit logs, surveys, evaluations, grades, and other data instruments.
• Supports development and implementation of college-going services and activities.
• Organizes campus visits for students, parents, and educators; supports workshop organization for students, parents, and educators.
• Assists in planning and implementing academic preparation and parent activities and conferences; delivers workshops on admissions, personal statements, financial aid, test-taking, and other assigned topics.
• Assists in organizing and implementing personal and academic enrichment programs for students and parents.
• Maintains relationships with higher education institutions and community entities; develops professional relations with educators to identify educationally disadvantaged students.
• Serves as a liaison to partner schools, including principals, head counselors, parents, and key school personnel regarding student and parent CEP programs.
• Develops and maintains relationships with other UC/CSU/CCC programs (e.g., MESA, EAOP, AVID, Talent Search, CTFMS, Upward Bound) as well as community-based organizations, civic groups, and private industry.
• Acts as a resource for elementary, middle school, and high school personnel and the general public for inquiries regarding admissions, financial aid, housing, campus tours, and related areas.
• Supports coordination of academies providing in-depth educational support and resources to students, which may include Saturday work and transportation of students.
• Maintains accurate records and documentation of program activities and participant data.
• Supports monitoring of the program budget and allocates resources efficiently.
• Stays current with education trends and best practices to improve program offerings.

Requirements

• Must maintain a valid California driver’s license, a clean Department of Motor Vehicle record, and enrollment in the Department Motor Vehicle Pull-Notice Program.
• Mandated Child Abuse Reporter (CANRA) and Campus Security Authority (Clery Act) responsibilities.
• Work locations available throughout the Central Valley, including Fresno, Madera, Merced, Visalia, Orosi, Gustine, Los Banos, and McFarland.
• Contract length varies from one to two years, with fully on-site positions.

Qualifications

Project Advisor

• Bachelor's degree in a related area from an accredited institution. (Required)
• One year of progressively responsible related experience and/or a combination of experience and training. (Required)

Project Coordinator

• Bachelor’s degree in a related area from an accredited institution. (Required)
• Advanced degree in a related area may substitute for two years of required experience. (Preferred)
• Three years of progressively responsible related experience and/or a combination of experience and training. (Required)

Skills

• Knowledge and experience working with a diverse student population, with sensitivity to culture, race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, and socio-economic status.
• Knowledge and understanding of K-14 education.
• Knowledge of higher education institutions (UC, CSU, CC, etc.), admissions, and financial aid requirements; ability to interpret policies and procedures for youth, parents, and school representatives.
• Experience advising and supporting educationally disadvantaged and academically at-risk students regarding postsecondary opportunities and careers.
• Ability to maintain cooperative relationships with school district administrators, counselors, principals, teachers, and community contacts.
• Thorough knowledge of high school graduation and college entrance requirements.
• Spanish-speaking ability preferred.
• Able to travel and work evenings and weekends as needed.

Pay

• Project Advisor: $25.02 - $28.07 per hour
• Project Coordinator: $57,000 - $70,000 per year

The hiring range reflects the university’s reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role, considering factors such as experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure, certifications, and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience.

Background Check

A background check will be required for the final candidate.