Director of Student Success & Retention

The University of South Carolina

Columbia, SC

JOB DETAILS
SKILLS
Academic Affairs, Analysis Skills, Communication Skills, Customer Support/Service, Data Analysis, Disability Accommodations, Funding, Leadership, Marketing, Military, Organizational Skills, Presentation/Verbal Skills, Project/Program Management, Research Grants, Student Admissions, Student Services, Writing Skills
LOCATION
Columbia, SC
POSTED
Today
Posting Details

Posting Summary

Logo

Posting Number
STA00270PO26

Job Family
Enrollment Management

Job Function
Student Services

USC Market Title
Student Services Program Manager

Link to USC Market Title


Job Level
M1 - Managerial

Business Title (Internal Title)
Director of Student Success & Retention

Campus
Lancaster

Work County
Lancaster

College/Division
USC Lancaster College/Division Level

Department
USC Lancaster - Palmetto College

State Pay Range
G10

USC Market Range
MRH - $63,557 $79,446 $95,336

Anticipated Hiring Range
Salary commensurate with qualifications.

Location of Vacancy

Part/Full Time
Full Time

Hours per Week
37.5

Work Schedule

The standard work schedule will be Monday - Friday from 8:30am - 5:00pm.

Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department.

Basis
12 months

Job Search Category
Student Services

About USC

About University of South Carolina

From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor's degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service - helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.

Veterans' Preference Statement

The University of South Carolina is committed to equal opportunity and proudly values the skills and experience military veterans bring to our workforce. Across South Carolina, we are making veterans a priority for employment and recognize their vital contributions to our state and our communities.

Benefits for FTE Positions

The University of South Carolina (USC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about USC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at Research Grant or Time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some, or no benefits, based on the grant or project funding.

Position Description

Advertised Job Summary

The Director of Student Success and Retention is responsible for developing and implementing a retention plan that specifies effective retention and success initiatives. This position will also develop and manage advising. Will also oversee the Academic Success Center, Counseling and Disability Services Departments. Will have significant involvement with Student Life and USC Connect.

Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience

Requires a bachelor's degree in a job related field and 5 or more years of job related experience, which may be substituted by an equivalent combination of job related certification, training, education, and/or experience.

Required Certification, Licensure/Other Credentials

Preferred Qualifications

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

Knowledge of data analytics and relevant student success software (Target X desired).

Ability to analyze and present student success and retention data for the sake of strategic decision-making.

Proven skill in advising college undergraduates.

Ability to communicate and collaborate well with campus stakeholders especially, faculty marketing, admissions, student success and business offices.

Written oral and communication skills.

Strong organizational skills.

Customer service orientation.

Job Duties

Job Duty

In collaboration with Associate Dean, develops and implements a retention plan that specifies effective retention and success initiatives. Uses data to assess the efficacy of the retention plan. Communicates plan to University stakeholders.

Essential Function
Yes

Percentage of Time
30

Job Duty

In collaboration with the Associate Dean, develops and manages advising. Supports faculty and staff advisors.

Essential Function
Yes

Percentage of Time
20

Job Duty

Oversees the Academic Success Center, Counseling Services, and the Student Disability Resource Center.

Essential Function
Yes

Percentage of Time
20

Job Duty

Performs other duties as may be assigned by the Associate Dean of Academic and Student Affairs.

Essential Function
Yes

Percentage of Time
5

Job Duty

Collaborates with the Director of Student Life to develop and evaluate co-curricular programming that promotes student success and engagement.

Essential Function
Yes

Percentage of Time
15

Job Duty

Manages, coordinates, and promotes activities related to USC Connect including Integrative Learning Training and Graduation with Leadership Distinction.

Essential Function
Yes

Percentage of Time
10

Position Attributes

Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing.

Safety Sensitive or Security Sensitive
No

Hazardous weather category
Non-Essential

Posting Detail Information

Number of Vacancies
1

Desired Start Date
06/01/2026

Job Open Date
04/21/2026

Job Close Date

Open Until Filled
Yes

Special Instructions to Applicant

A complete application must include the following:
  • Completed application form
  • Cover Letter
  • Resume
  • Contact information - including a phone number and email address - for a minimum of three professional references


Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position., depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.

Quicklink for Posting


EEO Statement

The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.

About the Company

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The University of South Carolina