Learning Specialist

Job Overview

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is seeking a full-time Learning Specialist dedicated to supporting the academic success of student-athletes. This career position offers an annual salary between $72,240 and $75,000, comprehensive health benefits, and participation in the UC Retirement Plan. The role is based in Los Angeles on the UCLA campus and involves working with the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics Office of Academic Excellence and the Division of Undergraduate Education, College of Letters & Science.

Role Purpose

The Learning Specialist focuses on promoting the retention and academic achievement of student-athletes through personalized academic assistance, learning strategy coaching, time management support, and targeted interventions for students with diverse educational needs. This position collaborates extensively with academic advisors, eligibility coordinators, coaches, faculty members, and campus resources to ensure student-athletes adhere to NCAA and University standards while progressing academically.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and monitor individualized academic support plans utilizing educational history, assessments, interviews, and input from athletic staff.
• Support a designated caseload of student-athletes and assigned teams, serving as a liaison to both campus and departmental resources.
• Provide initial and ongoing training for academic mentors and peer learning facilitators.
• Collaborate with various campus and athletic support service providers, making referrals as necessary to enhance academic support.
• Create proactive programming that aligns with campus academic integrity policies and maintains FERPA confidentiality standards.
• Fulfill administrative responsibilities including tracking grades and academic progress, reporting to coaches, and participating in eligibility meetings, orientation, and special events such as the Student-Athlete Graduation Celebration.
• Occasionally travel to support student-athletes during away competitions.

Candidate Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience required; Master’s degree in Education or Counseling preferred.
• Demonstrated experience supporting college students, particularly those at risk or with learning differences, in academic advising or support roles.
• Strong skills in academic coaching, learning strategy development, and time management training.
• Familiarity with ADA regulations and accommodations for students with diagnosed learning disabilities.
• Sound judgment and the ability to handle confidential information in compliance with FERPA regulations.
• Capable of working independently with minimal supervision and following through on responsibilities.
• Excellent interpersonal, diplomatic communication, and writing skills, including report and memo preparation with strong adherence to language standards.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with staff, student-athletes, coaches, faculty, and university personnel.
• Knowledge of collegiate athletic demands and NCAA, conference, UCLA Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, and University policies and compliance requirements.
• Capacity to work under pressure and time-sensitive situations collaboratively.
• Must be available to work on campus Monday through Friday during regular business hours.

Additional Information

UCLA Intercollegiate Athletics upholds the philosophy of "Champions Made Here," striving for excellence in both athletic competition and academic achievement. The program supports over 650 student-athletes across 25 sports and offers a supportive and inclusive work environment. UCLA is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer dedicated to diversity and inclusion.