Academic Advisor, Black Student Success

Company Description Highline College is a comprehensive community college in South King County offering more than 100 degrees and certificates, including seven applied bachelor’s degrees, to meet diverse educational and career needs. Located in Des Moines, just 20 minutes south of Seattle, the college serves over 17,000 students annually, including more than 800 international students. Highline is one of Washington’s largest and most diverse institutions of higher education, with over 70 percent students of color. The college is nationally recognized for its strong commitment to diversity, social justice, and multiculturalism, receiving multiple Awards of Excellence from the American Association of Community Colleges and the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award. Highline has also been named one of the nation’s “Great Colleges to Work For,” and maintains a clear non-discrimination statement accessible at highline.edu/nds/.Role Description The Academic Advisor, Black Student Success is a full-time, on-site role based at Highline College in the Greater Seattle Area. This position provides culturally responsive academic and career advising to Black students, supporting them in course selection, educational planning, and navigating college resources from entry through completion. The advisor collaborates with faculty, student services, and campus partners to connect students with tutoring, financial aid, counseling, and transfer or workforce pathways. Day-to-day responsibilities include one-on-one advising appointments, group workshops, outreach to prospective and current students, and proactive retention support for students experiencing academic or personal challenges. The role also involves maintaining accurate student records, tracking progress and outcomes, and contributing to programs and initiatives that promote equity, inclusion, and Black student persistence and success.Qualifications Candidates should possess strong Academic Advising and Education-related skills, with experience supporting students through degree and certificate pathways.Candidates should possess Student Counseling and Career Counseling skills to address academic, personal, and career development needs.Candidates should possess excellent Communication skills, including active listening, clear written and verbal communication, and the ability to engage effectively with diverse communities.Demonstrated commitment to equity, inclusion, and social justice, particularly in serving Black students and other historically marginalized populations.Experience working in higher education, community college, or related student support environments is highly beneficial.Bachelor’s degree in education, counseling, social sciences, or a related field; a master’s degree is preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience.Ability to manage multiple cases, maintain confidential records, use student information systems, and collaborate effectively in a team-based environment.