Retention Specialist

RETENTION SPECIALIST (GRANT FUNDED)

MALCOLM X COLLEGE

Malcolm X College is seeking a Retention Specialist for the Institutional Effectiveness Department.

The mission of Malcolm X College is to provide accessible liberal arts and health-focused education that fosters personal and professional achievement. To fulfill this mission, we focus on the following core values: accountability, community, diversity, empowerment, learning, and respect.

The position is responsible for, but not limited to, providing information and assistance to program participants for the purpose of student retention, transfer, and recruitment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Follows up with program participants by contacting them and making sure they are participating and taking advantage of support services within the program to ensure their success.
• Follows up with former program participants to identify if they have successfully completed an undergraduate degree or in the process of completing one.
• Provides information and assistance regarding transferring to four-year colleges and assists with the outreach and recruitment of new programs.
• Organizes, plans, and coordinates program activities for the purpose of retention, transfer, and recruitment.
• Prepares internal and external communication regarding retention program services.
• Completes reports for review by the Director of Student Support Services.
• Implements systems for tracking of and follow-up of program participants and knowledge and use of computer/databases.
• Works closely with the student support services staff, College Advisors, and administrative staff.
• Attends meetings and conferences.
• Adheres to the CCC Customer Service Excellence standards
• Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

•  Bachelor’s degree, in Developmental Education, Career Guidance, Higher Education, Student Personnel, Management, Marketing, or related field is required. Should possess two to three years of progressively responsible administrative experience; or an  equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Demonstrated skills in operating and applying microcomputer software and word processing, spreadsheet, and database application.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work well as a team player.
• Must be self-directed and innovative, able to assess current operations in an effort to improve the future goals of the District. Must be able to meet deadlines in a timely manner.

Chicago residency is required for all full-time employees within 6 months of hire.

We are an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.

Thank you for your interest in City Colleges of Chicago!

This position is represented by the Local 1600 professional union.

Malcolm X College has been recognized as a Promising Places to Work in Community Colleges award winner! The award is given by the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD), a membership organization committed to promoting and celebrating excellence in teaching and leadership at community and technical colleges, and Diverse: Issues in Higher Education, a leading academic publication. 

MXC was recognized for its best-in-class student and staff recruitment and retention practices, inclusive learning and working environments, and meaningful community service and engagement opportunities.

WE OFFER: Excellent health benefits at a low cost; Investment plans 403(b) & 457(b); SURS Retirement Plan; Generous vacation, holidays, personal and sick days; Tuition Reimbursement and Public Service Loan Forgiveness. For a more detailed overview of benefits, please visit our benefits page. 

GRANT FUNDED – End Date: 9/30/2025