Monterey Peninsula College
Dean of Student Services (Counseling)
Salary: $14,143.00 - $16,111.00 Monthly
Job Type: Administrator
Job Number: 2026-00088
Closing: 8/24/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Location: Monterey, CA
Division: Student Services
Description
Priority Screening Date: Monday, August 24, 2026
Monterey Peninsula Community College District is committed to educational equity for all students, as outlined in the District's Governing Board Goals , Mission, Vision, Values, and Institutional Goals (Download PDF reader) , Equal Employment Opportunity Plan , and Student Equity Plan . We provide students with a rich and dynamic learning experience that embraces differences-emphasizing collaboration, engaging students in and out of the classroom, and encouraging them to realize their goals and become global citizens and socially responsible leaders. When you join our team at Monterey Peninsula College, you can expect to be part of an inclusive, innovative, and equity-focused community that approaches higher education as a matter of social justice requiring broad collaboration among faculty, classified staff, administration, students, and community partners.
Monterey Peninsula College is designated as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) and is an affiliate of the statewide Umoja Community of California Community Colleges. Monterey Peninsula College has a diverse student population that is a reflection of the communities it serves.
We value the ability to serve students from a broad range of cultural heritages, socioeconomic backgrounds, genders, abilities, orientations, and intersections of these identities, and others not yet identified. Therefore, we prioritize applicants who demonstrate they understand the benefits diversity brings to a professional educational community. The successful candidate will be an equity-minded individual dedicated to collaborating with faculty, classified staff, administration, students, and community partners who are also committed to closing equity gaps. An equity-minded individual is a person who already does or has demonstrated the desire to:
Hold ourselves accountable as educators for closing equity gaps and engaging in equitable practices;
Reframe inequities as a problem of practice and view the elimination of inequities as an individual and collective responsibility;
Implement positive race-consciousness and embrace human difference;
Reflect on institutional and teaching practices and make them more culturally responsive; and
Collaborate with colleagues on equity-related initiatives.
Monterey Peninsula College seeks employees who value mentorship and working in a collegial, collaborative environment, guided by a commitment to helping all students achieve their educational and career goals. All departments value collaboration across disciplines to create inclusive, integrated, and interdisciplinary learning experiences.
JOB SUMMARY
Under direction, plans, organizes, directs and integrates the operations of the assigned Student Services division's programs, services and activities; plans, develops and implements strategic initiatives and services that support student access, engagement, onboarding, retention and completion; plans, aligns and administers grants and divisional budgets; ensures compliance with all applicable laws, rules, regulations and accreditation recommendations and standards; provides highly responsible and complex professional assistance to the Vice President of Student Services in areas of expertise; and performs related duties as assigned.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
A Dean of Student Services is an Educational Administrator distinguished from other Dean classes by its responsibility for direction, management and ensuring equitable access to student support programs and services including grant-funded programs, counseling, athletics, extracurricular activities and programs, student leadership, matriculation, admissions and enrollment, financial support, basic needs, educational support, health and wellness, and accessibility services. Responsibilities include ensuring the accurate and timely collection and reporting of student and program information, and adherence to complex federal and state funding and reporting rules, regulations and reporting requirements.
Example of Duties
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to this class.
Provides vision and leadership for a diverse, dynamic, and innovative community of faculty, staff and students; plans, implements and evaluates assigned Student Services division strategies, goals and objectives in support of the college mission and the student learning and achievement initiatives of the Educational Master Plan; with division directors and managers, develops, integrates and evaluates Student Service work plans to support student attainment of their academic goals and ensure educational success through division programs and services.
With other Deans and administrators, leads and develops a culture of understanding of, sensitivity to, and appreciation for the diverse academic, socio- economic, cultural, disability, gender identity, religious, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds of students and staff attending or working on a community college campus.
With other Deans and administrators, develops, cultivates and implements a comprehensive set of student-centered programs, services and activities; analyzes data on student satisfaction and student success outcomes, including access, persistence, graduation, transfer, and program completion rates to identify barriers and enhancements to student success; ensures District, categorical and grant-funded student support programs provide equitable access to education for all students and support divisional strategic plans and initiatives.
Through subordinate directors and managers, plans and directs the implementation of supportive programs and services including learning communities, educational and financial support services; ensures student application process and eligibility criteria are timely and accurate; ensures program tracking and reporting supports funder/reimbursement requirements.
Ensures student access to academic and personal counseling from pre-enrollment through completion or transfer; responds to students in crisis and provides consultation to faculty and staff on a variety of sensitive student-related issues; may participate on the Behavioral Assessment Resource Team (BART) and serve as the lead conduct officer for student discipline.
Directs and manages the selection and performance of assigned Student Services administrators, faculty and staff; establishes performance requirements and professional development targets for direct reports; regularly monitors performance and evaluates assigned managers and classified staff according to established procedures and timelines; participates in the evaluation of assigned faculty, counselors and coaches; makes appropriate recommendations to the Vice President of Student Services regarding performance intervention and retention of faculty and staff members in areas of supervision.
Provides leadership for divisional program reviews and assists departments with assessing and evaluating programs, services and activities to ensure service area outcomes (SAO) are student centered and aligned with the college's objectives; oversees the development of program enhancements and action plans; supports departments on updating standards and operations for programs and co-curricular engagement by ensuring activities support the college's academic mission, academic principles and student matriculation; participates in the accreditation process.
Develops and monitors performance against the annual divisional budget; forecasts and recommends allocation of funds needed for each department/assigned student support program and integrates enrollment data and divisional plans with budgeting for staffing and other departmental expenditures.
Researches, recommends, applies for and evaluates categorical programming and state and grant funding initiatives and opportunities; ensures compliance with external funding guidelines, legal mandates and reporting requirements.
Researches, develops and fosters partnerships with other educational institutions, community organizations, government agencies, corporations and local businesses, in conjunction with administrators, faculty and other staff.
Maintains an understanding of current ideas, trends, laws, regulations, guidelines and practices pertaining to areas of responsibility through continued study and participation in professional organizations; seeks and participates in professional development activities.
Makes presentations to the Board of Trustees, Executive Leadership, and other groups; represents the District and presents at community meetings and events and at local, regional, state and national conferences, meetings, workshops and training seminars.
Chairs and participates in participatory governance committees, processes and initiatives.
Demonstrates an understanding of, sensitivity to, and appreciation for the diverse academic, socio- economic, cultural, disability, gender identity, religious, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds of students and staff attending or working on a community college campus.
OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED
14. Serves as a lead for the implementation of the Measure V capital bond measure including planning, developing and implementing the expansion of facilities and the implementation of new technology to support the delivery of student services and the student information system.
15. As assigned to Dean of Counseling Services:
Through subordinate directors and coordinators, directs and oversees management and operations of General Counseling, Articulation, and student support programs and centers including but not limited to Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS), CARE/CalWORKs, TRIO Programs, UMOJA and UndocuResource Center, Access Resource Center/Disability Services, Basic Needs Services, Career Services and Transfer Center, and the Veterans Resource Center.
Through a subordinate Division Chair, plans, manages and implements a variety of Counseling programs and services to support student academic, career and transfer planning, course selection, and access to support services; ensures course equivalencies and articulation information are accurate and meet transfer requirements of colleges and universities.
Through a subordinate Director, plans, manages, and implements supportive services and programs to support the academic success of low-income, first-generation, underserved student communities and student parents; ensures educational planning is accurate, and organizes and submits quarterly and annual reports to relevant agencies.
Through a subordinate Coordinator, ensures student access to accessibility services and adapted PE program including alternate media access and adapted instructional classes; ensures the District adheres to federal and state laws and regulations pertaining to student support at a higher education institution and Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance. 16. As assigned to Dean of Enrollment Services:
Coordinates centralized student outreach, school relations, admissions, financial aid, matriculation and onboarding efforts, practices and processes; oversees the management of SOAR (Student Outreach and Retention Services), including but not limited to First Year Experience (FYE), the MPC Promise, International Student Program, UMOJA and UndocuResource Center, Guided Pathways, and operations of the Welcome Center; connects current and prospective students with appropriate services and information to ensure smooth matriculation process; serves as liaison with community, agencies and other educational institutions.
Through a subordinate Director, directs and oversees management of Admissions and Records; directs and plans the registration and enrollment of students into classes; ensures that automated and in-person application, enrollment, registration, prerequisite verification and petition processes are accurate, timely and efficient; arbitrates student petitions; ensures secure and accurate maintenance of all student academic records and timely issuance of all academic transcripts and the awarding of degrees, skills and completion certifications and transfer certifications to the CSU and UC systems.
Through a subordinate Director, directs and oversees management of Student Financial Services including student access to financial aid and scholarships; directs, plans and ensures the accurate and equitable award and disbursement of financial aid, grants and scholarship funds; ensures compliance with complex and detailed federal, state and local regulations and reporting requirements.
Facilitates the growth, development, marketing and administration of pathway and dual enrollment programs; works with area elementary, middle and high schools, as well as adult education to develop and expand partnerships to meet community needs.
Implements, reviews and interprets all applicable sections of Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations, and the California Education Code, federal regulations and reporting requirements pertaining to the Certification of Veterans Educational Benefits, federal regulations pertaining to the issuance of an I-20 and all reporting requirements mandated by the Department of Homeland Security in SEVIS. 17. As assigned to Dean of Student Affairs:
Plans, manages, and oversees student programs and services to increase the growth and development of students, promotes student well-being, and ensures a supportive campus environment while providing strategic leadership of comprehensive Student Life and Activities programs and services, including but not limited to Basic Needs, and the Associated Students of Monterey Peninsula College (ASMPC). Facilitates student support and advocacy to address student concerns, facilitation of the student conduct and rights and responsibilities matters, student conduct, and guidance and support to enhance students' academic and personal development.
Provides leadership as the designated Athletic Director, directs and controls the activities, services and operations of the inter-collegiate athletic program; ensures compliance with Title IX and Equity in Athletics Disclosure Act (EADA) requirements; ensures the timely and accurate tracking and reporting of student-athlete eligibility and oversees appeals and reinstatement of eligibility; ensures the Athletic department adheres to the governing bodies' rules and regulations including those related to CCCAA, National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I, II, III and National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) transfer requirements; ensures District faculty, counselors and coaches provide student-athletes with resources needed to make academic progress and complete educational goals in order to transfer or matriculate.
With Head Coaches, develops and approves team schedules and the master game schedule for the Athletic department including regular and post-season activities for all sports; manages and participates in game-day operations and coordinates with internal stakeholders and visiting teams; works with coaches and staff to arrange team travel and the purchase of equipment and supplies.
Through subordinate Coordinator, plans, manages and directs Student Health Services; ensures access to quality physical and mental healthcare services on campus in compliance with established health standards; ensures access to mental health counseling services; collaborates with community organizations to provide access to resources and supportive care. 18. As assigned to Dean of Marina Campus:
Plans, manages and oversees the growth and operations of Marina Campus and the Public Safety Training Center; collaborates with academic deans, department chairs, faculty and staff to develop center educational programs, class schedules and student support programs and services; coordinates facilities use, maintenance and resources; integrates student activities with the academic calendar and provides resources to support faculty and student needs. 19. Performs related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Required Education and Experience
The minimum qualifications for service as an educational administrator shall be both of the following:
(a) Possession of a master's degree; and
(b) One year of formal training, internship, or leadership experience reasonably related to the administrator's administrative assignment.
Or the equivalent, as defined by the College's equivalency process.
Desired Education and/or Experience
Three years of increasingly responsible experience as an academic administrator or in a faculty leadership role that included student academic support and student services programs, functions, operations and activities, preferably in a California community college.
Demonstrated experience counseling or advising students, preferably within a community college or other higher education setting.
Demonstrated experience developing and assessing student learning outcomes.
Demonstrated experience managing projects, grants, and budgets.
Demonstrated experience collaborating campus-wide to create an educational environment that supports student success, effectively leading to educational goal attainment.
Demonstrated experience in or knowledge of federal, state, and local student services programs.
Demonstrated management or leadership experience of categorical/grant-funded programs (E.g. EOPS, CARE/CalWORKs, TRIO programs, Puente, MESA, and/or UMOJA).
Demonstrated experience with student conduct.
Knowledge of:
Administrative principles and methods including goal setting and long-range planning, program development/implementation, delegation and employee supervision.
Theories, principles and practices utilized to research, develop and implement higher education student learning and success programs and services.
Advanced principles, practices, methods and techniques of program, administrative and organizational analysis, planning and management as applicable to student support services and educational planning.
Computer-based technology for management of assigned divisions/areas and for instructional and instructional support services.
Accreditation standards of the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges and Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Best practices and strategies for developing learning communities and student support programs and services applicable to assigned division.
Federal, state and local laws, regulations and court decisions governing area of assignment including Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the Americans with Disabilities Act, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and the California Education Code.
District student and financial systems used for recordkeeping, budgeting, payroll and general accounting.
Principles and practices of sound business communication; correct English usage, including spelling, grammar and punctuation.
Board Policies, Administrative Procedures, Human Resources procedures and collective bargaining agreements.
As Assigned
Student rights, student intervention and student disciplinary/grievance processes and procedures.
Principles of student development theory and practices, and student life and leadership advising.
CCCApply, residency, and comprehensive admissions and records policies, and federal and state guidelines and reporting of Title IV and CSAC student aid.
Principles and practices of student and academic counseling as well as principles of individual crisis counseling.
Counseling and program development related to student diversity, equity, and inclusion.
District, CCCAA, NCAA, NAIA, FERPA, and HIPPA regulations, requirements and reporting systems including those related to athlete eligibility and athletics transfer policies and matriculation policies/processes.
Ability to:
Plan, organize, direct and evaluate the assigned Student Services division's programs and services and associated administrators, faculty and staff.
Direct divisional planning and program review process including developing and monitoring student learning and success outcomes; participate in accreditation processes.
Provide divisional administrative oversight and financial management including effective utilization of staff and resources, performing operational and mandated reporting, and ensuring grants and external funding compliance.
Collaboratively work with administration, faculty and staff to respond to local, state and federal student success initiatives, founded upon enrollment management principles; provide expert advice in areas of expertise.
Identify and implement processes and technological enhancements to support student learning and support services and increase staff productivity.
Understand, interpret and apply policies and procedures, regulations, government and state code, and other applicable laws.
Develop and maintain an effective work environment that fosters diversity, respect and engagement.
Facilitate professional development and training of employees.
Represent the District in a variety of forums and interactions with other educational institutions, partnerships, community groups and the public.
Organize, set priorities and exercise expert, independent judgment within areas of responsibility.
Develop and implement appropriate procedures and controls.
Compose clear and effective analyses, reports, studies, agreements, presentations and other written materials.
Deliver formal and influential presentations to diverse audiences.
Operate a computer and use standard business software and the student information system.
Exercise insight and diplomacy in dealing with sensitive, complex and confidential personnel, student, business and community issues and situations.
Ensure conformance with District safety programs, policies and procedures.
Demonstrate an understanding of, sensitivity to and appreciation for, the academic, ethnic, socio-economic, disability and gender diversity of students and staff attending or working on a community college campus.
Physical Effort / Work Environment
Light physical effort in an office work environment.
Extended periods of sitting.
Occasional standing, walking, stooping, bending and kneeling.
Periodic handling and lifting of 10 pounds.
May be required to operate a vehicle or travel to locations other than primary worksite.
Work Schedule / Supplemental Information
All applicants are required to submit:
A completed online District application form, submitted via our website.
A resume/curriculum vitae that details all relevant education, training, professional research or presentations, and work experience.
All undergraduate and graduate academic transcripts. Unofficial copies may be submitted with the application; official copies will be required at the time of hire. For foreign degrees, you are required to attach an evaluation for US equivalency.
A cover letter summarizing your preparation for the position and addressing how you meet each of the items listed under Desired Education and/or Experience in this job announcement.
Salary
Management Salary Schedule -Range 38 Salary: $14,143 (Step I) - $16,111 (Step V) per month, depending upon experience and qualifications.
Benefits
Monterey Peninsula College offers excellent employee benefits, ranging from health, dental, vision, life insurance, employee assistance program (EAP), and long-term disability, provides sick leave and contributes to the CalSTRS or CalPERS retirement plan. Participation in tax-deferred plans is available.
Candidate Travel Reimbursement
Monterey Peninsula College will provide up to $1,000 travel reimbursement to eligible candidates. A candidate is eligible for travel reimbursement when they have participated in an in-person interview for first- and/or second-level interviews, and when they live 50 miles or more from the College.
For questions, please contact:
Gerardo Cardenas Hernandez, Human Resources Specialist
[email protected]