First-Generation Student Program Assistant

Position: First-Generation Student Program Assistant 2026-2027
Position Details

Position Information

Job Title
First-Generation Student Program Assistant

Department
Shepard Academic Resource Center

Terms and Hours
Approx. 10-12 hrs/wk

Job Category
Student Employment

Hourly Wage
Portland Metro Minimum Wage ($16.30/hour)

Job Summary

Under the supervision of the Program Manager of First Generation in the Shepard Academic Resource Center (SARC), the First-Generation (FGEN) Program Assistant is a yearlong position providing administrative, logistical, and operational support to FGEN programs. This role helps ensure smooth coordination of program activities, supports student leader teams, and maintains accurate documentation and systems.

The Program Assistant works closely with the Program Manager to support event implementation, outreach efforts, and day-to-day operations, including scheduling, tracking program metrics, and promoting FGEN initiatives through tabling and classroom visits. Through collaboration with the Engagement, Digital, and Mentorship teams, this position contributes to community-building efforts and supports the overall success of first-generation students at the University of Portland.

This position spans April 2026 - April 2027. Compensation for this role is $16.30/hour until July 2026, after which it will mirror the Portland Metro minimum wage.

Application checklist:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Supplemental questions (please keep responses to about 300 words per question block)
• Two recommendations
  • Please identify two (2) recommenders and send them the recommendation form in this linkto complete. One should be a UP faculty member, and one an advisor or supervisor (job, research, internship, club, ROTC, etc.) - all recommendations are due by Wednesday, February 18th.

Please note:

If selected as an FGEN Program Assistant, you are required to attend FGEN Staff training the week before the start of classes in August 2026 (tentatively Aug. 16th-21st), and you CANNOT serve in any Residence Life, ASUP Executive, or Orientation roles, or participate in any other role that will that interfere with the training schedule or duties of the Community Engagement Coordinator position.

Terms of Employment

• Position is a 12-month appointment.
• Application Timeline
  • January 27th:
    Applications Opened
  • February 17th:
    Applications due at 11:59 PM
  • March 9th-20th:
    Interviews
  • March 27th:
    Offers made.

Core Duties

Responsibilities: (Job duties are subject to change based on programmatic needs.)

• Assist with scheduling, logistics, and preparation for FGEN meetings and trainings.
• Maintain the FGEN calendar, track deadlines, and coordinate schedules for events, trainings, and ambassador responsibilities.
• Support the Program Manager in maintaining accurate documentation, files, and records, including FGEN email, shared folders, and program materials.
• Assist with administrative tasks such as mail runs, copying, printing, and updating spreadsheets (budget tracking, event/attendance tracking, mentorship tracking).
• Assist in preparation, logistics, and execution of FGEN events, including FGEN Week, Commencement Pinning Ceremonies, orientation events, and mentorship outings.
• Staff tables and provide support during campus fairs (Activities Fair, Wellness Fair, and other tabling events).
• Create program materials, including flyers, pamphlets, training materials.
• Assist in collecting, curating, and organizing student feedback, insights, and relevant resources to support program planning and mentorship activities.
• Conduct brief classroom visits to promote FGEN programs, events, and resources, helping increase student awareness and participation across campus.
• Help collect and summarize student voice/insight, national studies, or articles relevant to program initiatives.
• Assist with follow-up on program deadlines, event preparation, and mentorship milestones.
• Help research, quote, and design merchandise or other program materials as needed.
• Participate in and prepare for required meetings for the role:
  • Meet weekly with the Program Manager to provide progress updates, discuss challenges, and organize upcoming tasks.
  • Contribute to and attend FGEN Leadership Sessions, where all FGEN Programs' teams connect for a common topic.
• Participate in professional development opportunities offered through the FGEN program, including trainings, workshops, reflection activities, and skill-building sessions.
• Perform general administrative support tasks as assigned by the Program Manager.
• Other relevant duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Knowledge,

Skills and Abilities

Required:

• Be a current first-generation, full-time student enrolled at the University of Portland.
• In good academic standing at the University (and maintain standing throughout the duration of the position).
• Must be entering their second year or higher of studies for the upcoming fall term.
• Ability to commit 10-12 hours per week to the role, with additional availability during training and major events.
• Availability to work during summer 2026, including required training and preparation week from August…