TRIO Upward Bound programs

The University of Maine is seeking applicants for the position of TRIO Program Counselor (50% Upward Bound “Classic” and 50% Upward Bound Math Science), a shared position with Upward Bound “Classic” and Upward Bound Math Science. The Program Counselor works with the TRIO Upward Bound Director and other Upward Bound staff to collaboratively plan and implement the program and achieve standardized program goals and objectives. This position provides direct service and support to students through academic, career and college planning, and monitoring student progress toward graduation from college. Specific responsibilities include the provision of guidance and mentoring to optimize the student retention and success in college. Typical hiring range for this soft-money funded position is $47,000 to $50,000 commensurate with qualifications and experience.

The University of Maine TRIO Upward Bound Programs assist eligible high school students in graduating from high school, preparing for success in college, and graduating from college within six years of enrolling.  They provide high school students with personalized planning and support combined with a wide array of challenging activities and opportunities to help students gain the experience and skills needed for academic and personal success in high school and college, and a working partnership with students, their families, and school staff to help students achieve their own aspirations of successfully graduating from college.  For information about TRIO Upward Bound Programs: https://umaine.edu/ub/.

The position is located at the University of Maine in Orono. “Founded in 1865, the University of Maine is a land and sea grant institution, and the flagship campus of the University of Maine System. Located in Orono along the banks of the Stillwater River, this vibrant and dynamic university serves Maine, the nation, and the world through its teaching, research and outreach mission. UMaine students come from every county in Maine, more than 49 other states and 63 countries. UMaine offers 90 undergraduate majors and academic programs, 85 master’s degree programs, and 35 doctoral programs. Opportunity for all members of the University of Maine community and its constituents is a cornerstone of our mission.”  For more information about the University of Maine: https://umaine.edu/about/.

Please review the TRIO Upward Bound Program Counselor job description for more information.

About the University:
The University of Maine is a community of more than 11,900 undergraduate and graduate students, and 2,500 employees located on the Orono campus, the regional campus in Machias, and throughout the state. UMaine is a land, sea and space grant university, and maintains a leadership role as the University of Maine System's flagship institution. UMaine is the state's public research university and a Carnegie R1 top-tier research institution, dedicated to providing excellent teaching, research and service for Maine, the nation and the world. More information about UMaine is at umaine.edu. 

The University of Maine offers a wide range of benefits for employees including, but not limited to, tuition benefits (employee and dependent), comprehensive insurance coverage including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short and long term disability as well as retirement plan options. 

UMaine is located in beautiful Central Maine. Many employees report that a primary reason for choosing to come to UMaine is quality of life. Numerous cultural activities, excellent public schools, safe neighborhoods, high quality medical care, little traffic, and a reasonable cost of living make the greater Bangor area a wonderful place to live. Visit the Maine Office of Tourism to learn more about what the Bangor region has to offer.

Qualifications:
Required:

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution in social work, education, counseling, or a related field.
• At least 3 years of direct service experience with high school or college age youth and a demonstrated respect for adolescents.
• And/or at least 3 years of successful experience in managing a similar academic support services project.
• Demonstrated sensitivity and experience working with students and /or individuals from diverse social, economic, ethnic, academic, and cultural backgrounds similar to that of Upward Bound participants.
• A current Criminal History Records Clearance (CHRC) endorsement through the Maine Department of Education, including fingerprinting through the Maine State Police.  Information regarding approved fingerprint sites and on-line registration in Maine is available at http://www.maine.gov/doe/cert/fingerprinting/or by calling the Maine Department of Education Certification Office. 

Preferred:

• Personal experience overcoming barriers similar to those faced by Upward Bound at UM students;
• 3 or more years related work experience;
• Experience working in programs with objectives similar to Upward Bound at UM; and
• Experience with and demonstrated understanding of college admissions and financial aid processes for low-income students.
• Ability to travel, normally requiring a valid driver’s license. 
   

Other Information: 

To be considered for this position you will need to “Apply” and upload the documentation listed below:

1.) a cover letter which describes your experience, interests, and suitability for the position
2.) a resume/curriculum vitae

Candidates selected to proceed to the final stages of the search process will be requested to provide a list of names and contact information for references.

Incomplete application materials cannot be considered. Materials received after the initial review date will be reviewed at the discretion of the University.

For full consideration, materials must be submitted by 4:30 p.m. EST on September 18, 2026.

The successful applicant is subject to appropriate background screening.