Coordinator of Student-Athlete Development

Job Summary 

Reporting to the Managing Assistant Director of Student-Athlete Development, the Coordinator of Student-Athlete Development (Professional Services Specialist 3) plays a pivotal role in promoting academic success, personal development and the retention of student-athletes at Kean University. The successful candidate will bring a commitment to student development and holistic support. This employee should utilize a balanced and inclusive approach to support individuals, teams and the Department in achieving their goals and promoting continued development. 

Kean University is an ‘in person’ employer. Employees are expected to work on site at one of the Kean campus locations. This position requires travel and a flexible schedule including evening and weekend hours.  

This position is grant funded and future employment is contingent upon renewal of supporting grant funds.  

Examples of Work 

• Academic Support and Programming - Coordinate and assist with the planning and execution of academic support initiatives including: 

  • GAMER (Graduation, Athletic Matriculation, Enrollment, and Retention) 

  • The Starting Line (study hall and tutoring programs) 

  • CLAWs (Cougar Leadership Academy Workshops) 

  • Jacqueline Towns’ Women’s Empowerment Series 

  • Other developmental and academic initiatives for student-athletes 

• Athletic Academic Advising- Provide academic advising and caseload management for 3–5 athletic teams, ensuring academic progress and addressing student-athlete concerns. 

• Serve as the department liaison to: 

  • KUBS (Kean University Building Strong Communities) 

  • Career Services 

  • Center for Advising, Persistence, and Success 

  • Bridge to Success 

  • Cougar Connections Center for Social Work 

  • Cougar Pantry 

  • Community Wellness and Counseling Center 

  • Kean Wellness Center 

  • Office of Student Retention and Educational Innovation 

  • Nancy Thompson Learning Commons 

• Support strategic planning efforts and advise the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee to foster an inclusive and supportive environment 

• Assist in the development and implementation of assessment tools and evaluation strategies to inform data-driven decision-making for student-athlete support initiatives 

• Participate in evening and weekend activities as needed to support programming and student-athlete needs 

• Provide site supervision at athletic events as needed 

• Assist with organizing and implementing program fundraising and community service initiatives 

• Follows all federal and state laws and regulations and university policies and procedures 

• Follows NCAA rules and regulations and ensures compliance  

• Perform additional responsibilities as directed to support the mission of the Department of Athletics and Recreation 

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college and two years of professional experience in academic advising, student-athlete development, student support services or a related area is required 

• A Master’s degree in a related field may be substituted for one year of the required experience 

Preferred:  

• Demonstrated understanding of NCAA rules and compliance as it pertains to academic eligibility 

• Experience working with diverse student populations in higher education 

• Knowledge of learning strategies, retention initiatives and success coaching 

Key Skills  

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills 

• Ability to develop rapport with students and staff across diverse backgrounds 

• Exceptional organizational and time-management skills 

• Commitment to student-centered support 

• Capacity to manage multiple responsibilities and meet deadlines 

• Experience with data collection and program assessment 

• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and student information systems (e.g., Ellucian, TeamWorks, or similar platforms)