Northeastern University·Oakland, California
The Program Assistant provides administrative support to the Upward Bound program, including managing student records, office supplies, and communications. They also assist with student recruitment, event coordination, and monitoring program spaces to ensure student success.
About the Opportunity About Mills Institute @ Northeastern University – TRIO Upward Bound Upward Bound (UB) is a federally funded college preparatory program that offers assistance to low-income and first-generation college-bound students.
The focus of Upward Bound is to develop skills needed for a college education.
UB is dedicated to helping participating students graduate from high school with a solid foundation, including completion of required coursework and a strong GPA, necessary for entering college.
Upward Bound continues to support participants to ensure continued college enrollment and, ultimately, graduation.
The Mills Institute @ Northeastern University Upward Bound program has played an integral role in the Oakland Unified School District for the last 50 years and is now beginning a relationship with the West Contra Costa Unified School District to continue building and expanding close relationships with eligible students and their families.
The program’s ultimate goal is to equip students with the skills and motivation necessary for college graduation.
Job Summary The Upward Bound Program Assistant provides administrative support to the Upward Bound program and works directly under the supervision of the Upward Bound Director and/or Office Manager.
This position reports to the Director, Associate Director, and/or Office Manager and does not supervise staff.
This is a temporary position through May 2027 with the possibility of extension or renewal for the 2027–2028 academic year.
Compensation is $20 per hour for up to 25 hours per week.
The position may require travel.
Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities Provide administrative support, including maintaining a library of college information for students, filing, and managing phone and email communications Assist with maintaining student records Assist with maintaining inventory of office and program supplies and organize storage rooms Assist with preparing program communications, including phone calls, email correspondence, flyers, and social media content Maintain office space, event aesthetics, program snacks/meals, and overall cleanliness Monitor student program spaces and support the enforcement of program expectations Pick up and deliver program snacks and supplies as needed Support the after-school program, including availability to work until 6:30 p.m. Create weekly Wednesday events for the after-school program Demonstrate knowledge of and support for program mission, vision, values, standards, policies, procedures, operating instructions, confidentiality standards, and the code of ethical behavior Attend staff training, program activities, and the final teacher evaluation closing session; dates will be announced prior to hiring Assist with student recruitment activities at target schools Assist with and attend program orientations, training sessions, field trips, and meetings Attend weekend and evening events as needed Lead and/or substitute teach Saturday college workshops Perform related duties as assigned by the Program Director, Associate Director, or Office Manager
Required High School Diploma Demonstrated proficiency in a related field Inspirational and culturally aware, with demonstrated knowledge of and experience addressing challenges faced by low-income and first-generation students Knowledge of child and adolescent development and different learning styles Ability to work effectively with students from diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, linguistic, and ethnic backgrounds Ability to drive as required for program activities Ability to sit for extended periods while working on a computer with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail Ability to work extended hours during overnight travel and while serving as an on-call chaperone during trips Ability to manage multiple activities and services with varying deadlines and priorities Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
Required Documents: Resume Position Type Temporary
Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer. Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. This job is for a current or anticipated job vacancy. Pay Rate: $20/hour
Candidates must have a high school diploma and demonstrated experience working with low-income or first-generation students. Proficiency in office administration and the ability to lift up to 50 pounds are required.
Market context
In California, Upward Bound Program Assistant openings often draw candidates with student-support and office experience, especially in programs serving low-income or first-generation students. These roles can be competitive because employers look for both administrative reliability and comfort supporting students in a mission-driven setting. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, and confirm you can meet the lifting and office-administration expectations before applying.