Learning Specialist , Disabled Students Program

Overview

About Berkeley – At the University of California, Berkeley, we are dedicated to fostering a community where everyone feels welcome and can thrive. Our culture of openness, freedom and belonging makes it a special place for students, faculty and staff. We are a world-leading institution known for academic and research excellence, public mission, diverse student body, and commitment to equity and social justice.

We encourage applicants who reflect California’s diversity and want to be part of an inclusive, equity-focused community.

The Disabled Students Program (DSP) promotes an inclusive environment for students with disabilities. We equip disabled students with appropriate accommodations and services to achieve their academic goals. DSP also manages a Department of Education TRIO Student Support Services federal grant. The DSP Scholars SSS Learning Specialist works in a complex environment where services to students are legally mandated and must be provided as needs increase.

This position involves planning, developing, and implementing programs, processes, and activities for DSP Scholars SSS students with disabilities in accordance with federal and state law, to assure their access to the academic and campus environment. The DSP Scholars SSS Learning Specialist coordinates grant-required services for 250 students and maintains an academic advising caseload of 125 DSP Scholars SSS students.

The First Review Date for this job is: 01/23/2026.

• Provide one-on-one tutoring, coaching, and academic support for study skills, time management, test preparation, and other academic challenges.
• Manage a caseload of 125 students and provide academic support to 250 students through virtual and in-person workshops and group settings.
• Assist with daily supervision, hiring, and training of six or more academic coaches and tutors.
• Under the direction of the DSP Scholar Director, recruit participants through on-campus events, interviews, and creating student success plans.
• Work independently and collaboratively; maintain confidentiality; work flexible hours as required (occasional evenings and weekends).

• Collaborate with Disability Specialist and other student support services to design and implement strategies that support diverse learning styles and abilities.
• Provide student learning and outcomes assessment evaluations for all contacts and DSP Scholar programming.

• Organize and lead workshops on study skills, test-taking strategies, time management, reading comprehension, and writing skills for students in group and individual formats.
• Design and develop new initiatives using evidence-based practices to meet evolving needs of diverse student populations.
• Work with disability specialists, academic advisors, counselors, and other staff to identify students who may benefit from academic support and ensure referrals.

• Collaborate with faculty, staff, and stakeholders to design and implement strategies that enhance student learning and success.
• Build positive relations within the team and with campus stakeholders (e.g., Residential Academic Centers, Academic Departments, Financial Aid and Scholarships Office, other student support services).

• Provide a welcoming and safe environment for students and staff in the Scholars program.
• Attend campus events to support students, staff, and faculty; maintain accurate records of counseling and coaching sessions; prepare activity reports.
• Coordinate with the Student Support Service Coordinator to produce monthly newsletters and manage program activity spaces.

• Promote and assist students in using assistive technology tools (e.g., text-to-speech, screen readers, note-taking tools) to enhance academic performance.
• Track and monitor student progress; document tutoring sessions; provide regular reports to the Director and administration on outcomes and support effectiveness.
• Provide administrative support to the DSP Scholar Program and create evaluative reports.

• Collaborate to keep DSP Scholars web pages current and accessible.
• Serve as a resource and advocate for students navigating accommodations and support resources at the university.

• Develop strategies to actively engage students, fostering community and belonging; use personalized support, interactive activities, and continuous feedback to maintain motivation and retention.
• Stay current with best practices in learning support, educational technology, and student success; attend relevant workshops and training.

• Strong knowledge of learning theories, educational psychology, and instructional strategies for a variety of learners.
• Familiarity with assistive technology and adaptive learning tools.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively with a variety of student populations and collaborate across departments.
• Compassionate and patient approach to students with varied academic needs and backgrounds.
• Ability to…