About IYRS School of Technology & Trades
IYRS School of Technology & Trades is the premier marine trades and advanced technologies career school. Located in the heart of downtown Newport, RI, IYRS leads the region and nation in academic outcomes related to skilled-workforce training, retention, graduation, and employment rates.
IYRS School of Technology & Trades is the only accredited private non-profit career school in Rhode Island recognized by the Department of Education. Our 3-acre harbor-front campus houses amazing facilities with traditional and state-of-the-art equipment. Our mission is to empower students through immersive, hands-on innovative learning to realize their full potential. IYRS offers four certificate programs for people interested in careers in marine trades and advanced technologies. IYRS students are passionate about thinking and working through hands-on learning to develop skills and problem-solving abilities. IYRS was named a Best Maker School by Newsweek Magazine in 2021.
Offering a great work environment, and collaborative team culture, IYRS offers competitive salaries and a robust benefits package including healthcare and retirement as well as generous holiday and vacation benefits. Additionally, IYRS is within walking distance of world-class museums, restaurants, beaches, boating, green space, and more.
Position Overview
The Admissions Counselor serves as a primary point of contact for prospective students throughout the enrollment journey, guiding individuals from inquiry through enrollment. This position is responsible for building authentic relationships with prospective students, accurately communicating the value of the educational experience, managing admissions communications, and supporting recruitment initiatives designed to meet enrollment goals. The Admissions Counselor collaborates closely with Marketing, Student Services, Finance, Financial Aid, and Faculty to ensure prospective students receive personalized support and a positive experience throughout the admissions process.
Major Responsibilities
Student Recruitment & Relationship Management
- Serve as a trusted advisor for prospective students and families throughout the enrollment process.
- Conduct outreach by phone, email, text, video conferencing, and in-person meetings.
- Respond promptly to inquiries and guide prospects through each stage of the enrollment funnel.
- Conduct admissions interviews and evaluate applicant readiness in accordance with institutional policies.
- Provide exceptional customer service while maintaining a consultative, student-centered approach.
- Represent the institution at college fairs, high school visits, industry events, open houses, information sessions, and other recruitment activities.
Enrollment & Admissions Operations
- Manage a recruitment population and meet established enrollment goals.
- Monitor applicant progress and proactively remove barriers to application completion and enrollment.
- Maintain accurate records within CRM and student information systems.
- Coordinate the collection and review of admissions documents including transcripts, resumes, and other supporting materials.
- Assist admitted students through the enrollment, onboarding, and orientation process, implementing engagement and retention strategies designed to support a successful transition and reduce summer melt.
- Generate reports and maintain data integrity to support enrollment forecasting and decision-making.
Event Planning, Execution, & Outreach
- Assist in planning and executing: open houses, campus tours, school group tours, virtual information sessions (as needed), offsite visits
- Develop relationships with high school counselors, career and technical education programs, community organizations, veterans' organizations, industry partners, alumni
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with Marketing to support lead generation campaigns and recruitment communications.
- Collaborate with Student Services to facilitate a smooth transition from applicant to enrolled student.
- Work with faculty and program leadership to maintain a thorough understanding of academic programs, career pathways, and student outcomes.
- Participate in enrollment planning, strategy discussions, and process improvement initiatives.
Compliance & Ethical Recruitment
- Conduct all recruitment activities in alignment with institutional policies, accreditation standards, and applicable regulations.
- Present accurate and transparent information regarding programs, admissions requirements, costs, and career outcomes.
- Promote informed enrollment decisions while maintaining the highest ethical standards.
Requirements
Essential KSOCs (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Other Characteristics)
- Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and rapport with diverse populations.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Experience working with CRM platforms, databases, or customer management systems.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and virtual communication tools.
- Physical and travel requirements:
- Ability to travel locally and occasionally overnight for recruitment events.
- Availability for some evening and weekend programs and events.
- Ability to stand for extended periods during events and presentations.
- Valid driver's license.
Education and Experience Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
- 1–3 years of experience in admissions, enrollment management, higher education, sales, customer service, recruiting, or a related field.
Additional Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in post-secondary, technical, trade school, or workforce education admissions.
- Experience with HubSpot or similar CRM platforms.
- Experience with Core Campus or similar SIS platforms.
- Familiarity with enrollment analytics and reporting.
- Experience facilitating presentations to large audiences.
- Knowledge of financial aid processes and student enrollment best practices.
Other Expectations
- Each employee at IYRS is expected to demonstrate the following in the regular performance of his or her job duties:
- Participating in requisite safety training for staff and students
- Commitment to the vision, mission, and values of IYRS
- Adherence to IYRS’s Code of Conduct
- A positive attitude and willingness to contribute productively to the success of the team and the organization
- An understanding of and commitment to the IYRS’s core competencies of accountability, collaboration, communication, institutional values, and service
- Active participation in efforts geared toward directing and improving the overall operations of IYRS, such as strategic planning, organizational development, and performance improvement
- Commitment to acting as an advocate and ambassador for IYRS
- Sense of ownership and pride in personal performance
- Adherence to all existing IYRS policies and procedures
Salary Range and Benefits
- Annual salary $45,000–$55,000
- Paid holidays, vacation, personal, and sick time
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Health Reimbursement Account and Health Savings Account
- Retirement plan with company match