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Student Retention Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Manage students building-wide, with identified retention outcomes; * Facilitate and implement a prescriptive holistic intervention plans; * Work with other staff to ensure students are receiving ...

Manage students building-wide, with identified retention outcomes; * Facilitate and implement a prescriptive holistic intervention plans; * Work with other staff to ensure students are receiving ...

The Retention Specialist performs intervention strategies to improve overall student success with ... Proactive Student Support & Case Management * Employ a structured case management approach that ...

Previous experience in student retention management, advising,coaching, or a related role in a higher education setting; Previous experience using student information systems and other technology ...

The Retention Specialist performs intervention strategies to improve overall student success with ... Proactive Student Support & Case Management * Employ a structured case management approach that ...

The Retention Specialist performs intervention strategies to improve overall student success with ... Proactive Student Support & Case Management * Employ a structured case management approach that ...

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Student Retention Manager information

See salary details

$23K

$61.4K

$102.5K

How much do student retention manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for student retention manager in the United States is $61,351.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a student retention manager do?

A Student Retention Manager is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to help keep students enrolled in an educational institution until they complete their programs. They analyze student data to identify those at risk of dropping out and coordinate support services such as academic advising, mentoring, and counseling. By working closely with faculty, staff, and students, they aim to improve student satisfaction and overall graduation rates. Their role may also include evaluating the effectiveness of retention programs and making recommendations for continuous improvement.

How does a student retention manager typically collaborate with academic departments to support at-risk students?

A Student Retention Manager works closely with academic departments by analyzing student performance data and identifying at-risk individuals. They often coordinate meetings with faculty, academic advisors, and support staff to create targeted intervention plans, such as tutoring or mentoring programs. Regular communication and collaboration ensure that each student's unique challenges are addressed, fostering a supportive environment that helps improve retention rates. This teamwork is essential for proactively addressing issues before they escalate, benefiting both students and the institution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a student retention manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Student Retention Manager, you need expertise in student success strategies, data analysis, and program development, often supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in education or a related field. Familiarity with student information systems (SIS), CRM platforms, and retention analytics tools is typically required. Strong interpersonal communication, problem-solving abilities, and cultural sensitivity distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are vital for identifying at-risk students, implementing effective interventions, and supporting institutional goals for student persistence and graduation.

What is the difference between Student Retention Manager vs Academic Advisor?

AspectStudent Retention ManagerAcademic Advisor
Primary FocusDeveloping strategies to improve student retention ratesGuiding students academically and personally to ensure progress
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree; experience in student services or retention programsBachelor's degree; advising certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentHigher education institutions, focusing on retention initiativesColleges and universities, working directly with students
Common UsageRetention programs, student success initiativesAcademic planning, course selection, student support

While both roles aim to support students, the Student Retention Manager focuses on developing and implementing strategies to improve retention rates, whereas the Academic Advisor provides direct academic guidance to students. The roles often collaborate but differ in scope and responsibilities.

More about Student Retention Manager jobs

What cities are hiring for Student Retention Manager jobs?

Cities with the most Student Retention Manager job openings:

What states have the most Student Retention Manager jobs?

States with the most job openings for Student Retention Manager jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Student Retention Manager jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Student Retention Manager jobs are:

Infographic showing various Student Retention Manager job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,351 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Student Recruitment and Retention Manager

Saint Louis, MO • On-site


MERS Goodwill
Education • 1 - 5K employees

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

186th of 783 rated non-profit organizations

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


$50K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Required Travel: 25% 
Position Type: Salaried  
Salary Range: $50,000 - $65,000 

MERS/Missouri Goodwill Industries is looking for an energetic, self-motivated, and professional Student Recruitment and Retention Manager to join our St Louis Excel Center team! The ideal candidate will support our mission, "Changing Lives Through the Power of Work!" and embody our core values of diversity, integrity, passion, professionalism, respect, and responsibility.

If you're seeking an opportunity that empowers you to achieve new goals while pursuing a mission-driven career, then this is the perfect fit for you.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university required; Master's degree preferred. Degrees in Social Work, Education, Human Services, or a related field are preferred. Equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.
  • Minimum of five years of experience in adult education, workforce development, or human services required. Experience in student, participant, or employee recruitment is preferred.
  • Ability to work a modified schedule at least one day per week (10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. or 12:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m.) and participate in occasional weekend events and activities.
  • Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong relationships with community partners and stakeholders while working collaboratively as part of a team.
  • Valid driver's license, current automobile insurance, and reliable personal transportation required.
Primary Duties/Responsibilities

Community Engagement & Student Recruitment

  • Build and maintain community relationships to increase awareness of the Excel Center.
  • Deliver a compelling elevator pitch on Goodwill’s mission and impact to a variety of stakeholders.
  • Strengthen existing partnerships and identify new collaborative relationships aligned with student success.
  • Develop and manage effective recruitment and enrollment systems, including outreach, event coordination, and clear orientation processes.

Student Retention & Success

  • Foster a strong, engaging student community and overall experience.
  • Plan and deliver student-focused events (e.g., Lunch & Learns) addressing barriers and career readiness.
  • Maintain follow-up systems for returning students and alumni.
  • Partner with Life Coaches and campus leadership to address barriers and celebrate student progress.
  • Collect and use student feedback to continuously improve the experience.
  • Supervise and evaluate College & Career Readiness Specialists.
Benefits
  • Individual and family medical benefits for full-time employees working 30 or more hours per week.
  • Individual and family dental and vision benefits on the first of the month following the hire date for employees working 20 or more hours week.
  • Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance on the first of the month following the hire date for employees working 20 or more hours per week.
  • 403(B) Retirement on date of hire for employees working 20 or more hours per week.
  • 403(B) Retirement + Employer Match after one year of employment for employees working 20 or more hours per week.
  • 401(A) Retirement on date of hire for employees working 20 or more hours per week.
  • PTO Accrual up to 15 days based on hours worked.
  • Employee store discount
  • Paid holidays
  • Flexible Schedules
  • Career Growth Opportunities

MERS Missouri Goodwill is an equal-opportunity employer.  MERS Goodwill does not discriminate in employment based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or any other non-merit factor.


MERS Missouri Goodwill requires various background and records checks upon employment.



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