Director of TRIO Programs

The director provides visionary leadership and effective management of TRIO programs (SSS and ESS) on the Manhattan and Salina campuses. Ensure alignment with federal grant guidelines, K State's strategic objectives, and institutional policies while delivering high-impact, student-centered services that advance retention, academic progress, and graduation outcomes for eligible students.

Since 1972, TRIO ESS has focused on student success by providing comprehensive support for students that are 1st generation, income limited, and/or have a documented disability. TRIO ESS accepts 300 students each year, offering 1-1 services that help participants maintain a good GPA, persist year-to-year, and graduate on time.

This position is On-site.

All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree
• 5 years of relevant experience
• Valid driver's license

Education beyond the minimum degree requirement may count toward required experience if deemed relevant by the hiring manager.

The degree requirement ensures candidates possess the strategic, financial, leadership and operational skills essential for directing complex academic student services functions. These competencies are typically developed and validated only through the comprehensive curriculum and experiential learning inherent in a formal degree program.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in educational administration or a related field.
• Experience writing grants with a proven track record of success in competitive grant processes.
• Experience working with students in a higher education setting.
• Supervisory experience, including mentoring, evaluating, and supporting staff.
• Experience working with low-income, first generation student populations and/or students with disabilities.
• Experience writing TRIO grants preferred.
• Experience in budget management, including oversight of federally funded or institutionally funded programs.
• Experience supervising staff and providing leadership in a programmatic or organizational setting.
• Experience managing, implementing, and evaluating a grant-funded program or similar initiative, ensuring compliance with regulatory, fiscal, and reporting requirements.

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship

Please submit the following documents:

1. Letter of interest detailing experience as it applies to this position
2. Resume
3. Three professional references with contact information

Applications close on: March 27, 2026

$79,926.000 - $83,000.000 annually