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Program Specialist 2 - Re-Entry Services

Tacoma Community College
$36,019.00 - $48,106.00 Annually
medical insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, vision insurance, vacation time, paid holidays, sick time, 403(b), retirement plan, hybrid
United States, Washington, Tacoma
6501 South 19th Street (Show on map)
Aug 22, 2025
Who We Are Located in the scenic Puget Sound area with nearby mountain ranges and Mount Rainier in the distance, Tacoma is surrounded by outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, boating and camping. Tacoma, Washington has been ranked as one of the most livable cities in the country, due to the increasing career opportunities, cultural diversity and community engagement, just to name a few. Tacoma Community College (TCC) was built on the ancestral territory of Coast Salish peoples, specifically the Puyallup and Squaxin Island Tribes. The 1854 Medicine Creek Treaty forcibly removed them to Reservations to make way for colonizers; we recognize the privilege of utilizing this land has come at a great cost. We honor the resilience of the Puyallup and Squaxin Island people, who still live here, defend their rights, and contribute greatly to the well-being of our community. Our institution aims to increase partnerships and community ties with the local indigenous populations. Moreover, TCC stands in solidarity with Black Lives Matter and the Black community by further strengthening collaboration with the Black Student Union as well as community entities such as the Tacoma-Pierce County Black Collective, the Tacoma Urban League, and local black-owned businesses. In addition, we strongly support the Stop Asian Hate movement and have an active Asian Pacific Islander Student Club as well as an Asian and Pacific Islander Faculty and Staff Coalition. TCC is committed to developing more culturally responsive curricula by infusing and incorporating more educational content focused on the lives, experiences, and contributions of Native, Black, Asian, and other marginalized communities. We continually strive to become an anti-racist institution. We are specifically focusing on improved support for traditionally marginalized populations, including Black/African- American, Indigenous, People of Color, Dreamers, justice-involved, immigrants and refugees, Veterans, people with disabilities, and the LGBTQ+ community. To this end, TCC seeks applicants who: Value intellectual curiosity and innovative teaching Welcome difference and model respectful interaction with others Recognize and honor the important role that diversity brings to an educational community Are committed to educating a racially and socioeconomically diverse student population Are committed to teaching in a community college setting Care deeply about student success Intentionally support and promote efforts related to equity, diversity, and inclusion Honor TCC's mission promoting equitable access to educational opportunities Reflect the diversity of our community This is a temporary grant-funded position through the Board of Trustees 2025-2026 Innovation Fund. Funding will end on June 30, 2026. Position Summary: The Re-Entry Navigator champions the success of justice-impacted students by recognizing their resilience, strengths, and capacity for growth. This role focuses on empowering individuals as they transition into college and community life, offering guidance that supports their academic and personal goals. By connecting students to key resources-like financial aid, housing support, and community connections-the Re-Entry Navigator helps remove systemic barriers and fosters a clear path toward opportunity and achievement. In addition to individualized case management, this role supports and mentors student peer leaders, helping them build confidence, leadership skills, and a sense of belonging. Through relationship-building, advocacy, and collaboration, the Re-Entry Navigator helps create a campus environment where justice-impacted students are seen, supported, and equipped to thrive. Essential Functions Case Management and Support: Provide holistic case management services to justice-impacted students, helping to develop individualized success plans and coordinating with community partners to ensure access to essential resources. Assist students with enrollment in educational programs, financial aid application processes, housing, and other resources necessary for their success. Act as a liaison between participants and community resources, facilitating connections with programs that support educational advancement, employment, mental health services, and other post-release needs. Collaboration and Resource Navigation: Work collaboratively with campus departments, faculty, and community organizations to connect students with relevant services and programs. Coordinate with local agencies to provide support with housing, employment, and other resources critical to the successful Re-Entry of students. Supporting Student Peer Mentors: Provide mentorship and guidance to student peer mentors, empowering them to support justice-impacted peers effectively. Organize training sessions, meetings, and development opportunities for peer mentors, ensuring they are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary for success. Foster an inclusive, supportive environment where peer mentors can share experiences, provide mutual support, and build a sense of community. Data Management and Reporting: Ensure accurate and timely documentation of participant progress, services provided, and outcomes. Monitor and report key metrics related to student retention, graduation, and overall success in alignment with program goals. Advocacy and Program Development: Advocate for the needs of justice-impacted students within the campus and local community. Assist in the development of programs and services tailored to justice-impacted students, ensuring that all aspects of the program are inclusive and accessible. Develops and maintains an inventory of resources that support student success, including identifying the individuals or departments responsible for those resources. Coordinates and hosts monthly meetings in support of the Re-Entry and New Chances programs. Qualifications Duties of the position require knowledge and abilities: Proficiency with Microsoft Office software applications like Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, and Outlook). Strong organizational skills and ability to multitask effectively. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to create a welcoming environment for students. Ability to perform data entry tasks with attention to detail and accuracy. Willingness to learn and contribute to a supportive and inclusive campus environment. Ability to work independently and collaboratively with a team. Knowledge of student support services, particularly for justice-impacted students and those facing barriers to education. Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability to student needs. Commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive practices in student support. Required work schedule and work environment: May require occasional evening or weekend hours for events. Primarily an office setting with frequent student interactions. Fast-paced environment serving a diverse student population. Some travel may be required for community events or partner meetings. Minimum Qualifications Associate degree OR equivalent experience in education, social work, student services, or a related field. Experience working with diverse student populations, including justice-impacted students or those experiencing housing instability. Basic computer skills, including familiarity with Microsoft 365 and data entry. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's degree in education, social work, criminal justice, or a related field. Experience in student support services at a college or nonprofit organization. Knowledge of resources available for justice-impacted students. Experience in event planning, leading workshops, or mentoring students. The Successful Candidate Will Demonstrate Passion for supporting students facing barriers to education. Ability to build strong relationships with students, staff, and community partners. Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach. Dedication to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment. Balance between administrative responsibilities and direct student engagement. Required conditions of employment: Successful completion of a background check. Valid driver's license or reliable transportation. Ability to lift and move materials weighing up to 30 lbs. Application Process Complete application packages must include the following: Tacoma Community College online application form. Resume Cover letter - In your cover letter, describe how your background and experience align with the responsibilities for this position. Copies of unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. Terms of Employment This is a non-permanent classified grant-funded position through the Board of Trustees 2025-2026 Innovation Fund. Funding will end on June 30, 2026. The salary is prorated to $ 36,019-$48,108 at 32 hours per week, and the full salary range is $45,024-$60,132. The work hours are Monday through Friday d uring campus hours and some nights and weekends. Flexibility in scheduling is required to meet the needs of the department. Tacoma Community College offers a comprehensive healthcare benefits package for you and your dependents including medical, dental, and vision insurance. Life and long-term disability insurance plans; vacation, sick, and personal leave; reduced tuition for the employee; and retirement benefits are also provided. For more information, please visit our employment page/employment benefits: https://www.tacomacc.edu/about/employment/ . Degrees must be from accredited colleges or universities recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and verified by National Student Clearinghouse. International degrees will be verified for U.S. equivalency. A collective bargaining agreement exists and membership in the Washington Federation of State Employees or payment of a service fee is available anytime upon employment. Tacoma Community College values diversity and is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Educator. Tacoma Community College provides equal opportunity in education and employment and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, creed, religion, or status as a veteran of war. Prohibited sex discrimination includes sexual harassment (unwelcome sexual conduct of various types). Provides reasonable accommodations for qualified students, employees, and applicants with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Federal Rehabilitation Act. The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Stephen Smith, Title VII and Title IX, Building 14, 253-566-5055; Kathryn Held, Section 504 Officer, Building 7, 253-566-5328. This recruitment announcement does not reflect the entire job description and can be changed and or modified without notice. Tacoma Community College, Human Resources 6501 S 19th St Bldg. 14, Tacoma WA 98466 www.tacomacc.edu/about/employment