Academic Specialist, MECIC

Academic Specialist, MECIC

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Academic Specialist, MECIC.

Position Details Location Hattiesburg

118 College Drive

Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001

United States Division College of Education and Human Sciences Position Type Staff Employment Status Full Time Grant Funded Yes Pay Grade

E11

Posting Close Date Open Until Filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary

The Academic Specialist develops high-quality, evidence-based professional development materials and serves as a trainer and coach for Division of Early Childhood and Development and Department of Education Collaborative programs throughout the state. As such, he or she will lead all face-to-face and virtual training and provide coaching to participating programs on project initiatives related to academics and development.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Collaborates with the Director, Associate Director, and other Specialists to select professional development participants and providers in the academic and developmental initiatives using clearly defined expectations.

• Develops the capacity of professional development participants in the academic and developmental initiative through evidence-based training strategies.

• Develops the capacity of professional development participants in the academic and developmental initiative through evidence-based coaching strategies.

• Develops the capacity of professional development participants in the academic and developmental initiative to increase the use of implementation, intervention, and outcome data to support decision-making.

• Develops high-quality, evidence-based materials designed to increase the knowledge of educators regarding evidence-based academic and development strategies aligned with Professional Growth System standards through training as evidenced by end of training assessments and annual surveys.

• Assists with project management, reporting, and dissemination.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Master's degree from an accredited college or university in education, behavioral sciences, or related field and two years' experience providing educational services to children and youth in early intervention and PK-12 settings.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Advanced knowledge in evidence-based practices related to the academic needs of young students with disabilities, including curricula, Universal Design for Learning, and high-leverage practices.

• Skill in developing high quality training materials to be delivered to a variety of stakeholders related to the academic and developmental needs of students with disabilities.

• Skill in developing training materials for use in face-to-face and online training platforms.

• Ability to coordinate activities across administrative and teaching personnel as well as other stakeholders and negotiate a shared vision and scope of work.

• Ability to organize and motivate site-level teams to implement systems change activities related to academic and developmental interventions for students with disabilities.

• Skill in completing tasks and developing materials accurately, on time, and with attention to detail.

• Ability to analyze and prepare plans, documents, reports, and correspondence accurately and using Standard professional English.

• Adept in, or the ability to learn, a variety of technologies and software including (but not limited to) Microsoft Tools (Office, Teams, etc.), Google Apps, Canvas, social media, and networking (including Facebook, and Constant Contact), email, and Webinar platforms.

• Must maintain currency on relevant research, professional certifications, and continuing education in the area of academic and developmental success for Early Intervention and PK12 students.

• Exhibit individual initiative and the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively as a member of a team.

• Resourceful and determined to provide a positive experience for professional development participants.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to be supportive and motivational while working with a diverse population.

• Ability to process and handle confidential information with discretion, including operating within FERPA guidelines.

• Ability to work evenings, nights and weekends, and engage in overnight travel as necessary.

Preferred Qualifications

Minimum qualifications met or a Specialist's degree from an accredited college or university in education, behavior sciences, or related field and reliability certification in current research tools: ICP, TPOT, and TPITOS.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation''s leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.