MDC Academic Advisor

Description

Macedonia Development Corporation (MDC)
Location: East St. Louis, Illinois
Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt
Reports To: Jackie Daniel, Director of Workforce Programs

Work Schedule: In-Person, Monday–Friday (5 days per week)
Salary: $58,000 annually
Benefits: As MDC continues to expand, we anticipate introducing a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, paid time off (PTO), and a retirement plan. Details and eligibility will be shared as benefits become available.

About Macedonia Development Corporation

Macedonia Development Corporation (MDC) is a mission-driven nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening individuals, families, and communities through education, workforce development, affordable housing, and community revitalization. We believe education is a catalyst for economic mobility and lifelong success.

We are seeking a compassionate, organized, and student-centered Academic Advisor to support participants in achieving their educational, career, and personal goals through comprehensive advising, coaching, and resource navigation.

Position Summary

The Academic Advisor provides individualized academic advising, success coaching, and student support services for participants enrolled in MDC’s educational and workforce initiatives, including BRS, TSS, and IS programs. The advisor helps students develop academic plans, overcome barriers to persistence, connect with campus and community resources, and successfully complete educational and career objectives.

The ideal candidate is passionate about student success, demonstrates strong interpersonal skills, and thrives in a collaborative, mission-focused environment.

Essential Responsibilities

Student Advising & Success Coaching

· Provide individualized academic advising and educational planning.

· Assist students in establishing academic, career, and personal goals.

· Develop individualized success plans and monitor student progress.

· Conduct regular follow-up meetings to encourage persistence and completion.

· Help students identify and overcome academic and personal barriers.

Student Support Services

· Connect students with tutoring, financial aid, counseling, childcare, transportation, and other community resources.

· Provide guidance regarding academic policies, registration, degree requirements, and educational pathways.

· Support students transitioning into postsecondary education or workforce training programs.

· Maintain ongoing communication with participants to encourage engagement and retention.

Case Management & Documentation

· Maintain accurate student records and case notes.

· Track student participation, outcomes, and program milestones.

· Prepare reports required by program leadership and funding agencies.

· Ensure compliance with program requirements and confidentiality standards.

Collaboration & Outreach

· Collaborate with educational institutions, workforce partners, and community organizations.

· Participate in recruitment, orientation, workshops, and student success events.

· Support outreach initiatives that promote educational access and program participation.

· Represent MDC professionally within the community.

Program Support

· Assist with program planning and implementation.

· Support special projects and educational initiatives.

· Participate in staff meetings and professional development opportunities.

· Contribute ideas for improving student engagement and program effectiveness.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

· Bachelor’s degree in Education, Counseling, Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, Student Affairs, or a related field.

OR

· Associate degree with significant professional experience in academic advising, student services, case management, workforce development, or a closely related field.

Preferred Experience

· Five or more years of experience advising students or clients in educational, nonprofit, workforce development, or human services settings.

· Experience working with first-generation college students, adult learners, or underserved populations.

· Experience with case management or student success coaching.

· Familiarity with higher education systems, workforce development programs, or community-based services.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

· Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills

· Strong written and verbal communication abilities

· Ability to motivate, coach, and support diverse student populations

· Strong organizational and time-management skills

· Ability to maintain confidential student records

· Proficiency with Microsoft Office and cloud-based technology

· Experience using student information systems, databases, or case management software is preferred

· Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail

· Commitment to equity, student success, and community engagement

Work Environment

· Full-time, in-person position located in East St. Louis, Illinois

· Standard Monday through Friday work schedule

· Regular interaction with students, community partners, educational institutions, and staff

· Occasional evening or weekend events may be required to support student programming

Why Join MDC?

At Macedonia Development Corporation, you’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students and families throughout the East St. Louis community. Your guidance and support will help individuals overcome barriers, achieve educational success, and build pathways to rewarding careers.

If you are passionate about education, student advocacy, and community impact, we encourage you to apply.

Macedonia Development Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect.