About Cameron University and the Open Doors/Upward Bound Vision
Cameron University, a vibrant state‑supported regional institution located in Lawton, Oklahoma, has a proud legacy of fostering academic excellence, cultural diversity, and community engagement. Nestled near the iconic Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge and adjacent to the bustling Fort Sill community, Cameron University serves more than 100,000 residents, offering over forty undergraduate majors, graduate programs in business, behavioral sciences, and education, plus a host of associate‑degree pathways.
At the heart of the university’s mission are two nationally recognized TRiO initiatives—Open Doors and Upward Bound. Both programs empower middle‑school and high‑school students from historically under‑represented, low‑income, and first‑generation backgrounds to become confident, self‑directed learners. By delivering rigorous academic support, mentorship, and college‑readiness workshops, these programs help students break barriers, achieve academic milestones, and set their sights on post‑secondary success.
Why This Role Matters
The Head Tutor position is the keystone of the tutoring team. Reporting directly to the Open Doors and Upward Bound Academic Advisors, the Head Tutor shapes instructional delivery, mentors a cadre of peer tutors, and acts as the primary liaison between students, families, and program staff. This is a unique opportunity for an educator who is passionate about social mobility, enjoys hands‑on curriculum design, and thrives in a collaborative, remote work environment.
Key Responsibilities – Your Day‑to‑Day Impact
- Leadership & Coordination: Direct a team of part‑time tutors, assign caseloads, monitor performance, and conduct regular coaching sessions to ensure high‑quality instruction.
- Instructional Delivery: Provide one‑on‑one and small‑group tutoring in core high‑school subjects (Mathematics, Science, English, and related disciplines), adapting strategies to each student’s learning style.
- Curriculum Development: Design and facilitate monthly academic workshops that reinforce key concepts, study skills, and college‑readiness competencies.
- Student Relationship Building: Establish rapport and trust with assigned tutees, track progress, and celebrate milestones to foster long‑term motivation.
- Data & Reporting: Accurately complete tutoring logs, timesheets, and performance dashboards; provide timely feedback to Open Doors and Upward Bound staff.
- Collaboration: Participate in weekly program meetings, training sessions, and mentorship circles; share best practices and propose innovative interventions.
- Compliance & Safety: Adhere to university policies, abstain from alcohol/tobacco while on duty, and immediately report any signs of abuse or neglect to appropriate authorities.
- Professional Development: Pursue continuing education opportunities related to tutoring methodologies, TRiO program standards, and culturally responsive pedagogy.
- Community Outreach: Attend designated Saturday sessions (9 am‑1 pm) at Lawton Public Schools, expanding the program’s reach and visibility within the community.
Minimum Qualifications – What We’re Looking For
- Academic Background: Demonstrated success in a post‑secondary educational institution, preferably with coursework or a degree in Education, Mathematics, Science, English, or a related field.
- Subject Expertise: Strong command of high‑school core curricula; ability to explain complex concepts in clear, relatable terms.
- Experience with Adolescents: Proven experience working with middle‑school or high‑school students, either as a tutor, teacher, mentor, or counselor.
- Communication Skills: Excellent oral and written communication; comfortable presenting material to diverse audiences.
- Organizational Ability: Strong time‑management, record‑keeping, and multitasking skills; ability to meet strict scheduling requirements (Monday‑Thursday evenings, 4 pm‑7 pm).
- Interpersonal Aptitude: Ability to build trusting relationships with students, parents, and staff; demonstrates empathy, patience, and cultural sensitivity.
- Reliability & Integrity: Consistent attendance, punctuality, and adherence to program policies; must obtain prior approval for any absences.
Preferred Qualifications – The Extra Edge
- Prior involvement in TRiO programs (Open Doors, Upward Bound, Student Support Services) as a tutor, mentor, or coordinator.
- Personal experience overcoming socioeconomic or educational challenges similar to program participants.
- Certification or training in tutoring methodologies, instructional design, or adolescent psychology.
- Experience leading a team of peer tutors or volunteers.
- Familiarity with virtual learning platforms (Zoom, Google Classroom, Microsoft Teams) and digital assessment tools.
Skills & Competencies – The Blueprint for Success
- Instructional Differentiation: Ability to tailor lessons to varied learning styles, academic levels, and cultural backgrounds.
- Mentorship Mindset: Commitment to guiding students beyond academics, fostering resilience, goal‑setting, and self‑advocacy.
- Data‑Driven Decision Making: Use of assessment data to identify gaps, track growth, and refine tutoring strategies.
- Technology Proficiency: Comfort navigating online scheduling tools, digital whiteboards, and learning management systems.
- Collaboration: Strong team player who contributes ideas, seeks feedback, and respects diverse perspectives.
- Professionalism: Maintains appropriate attire, language, and demeanor during all virtual and in‑person interactions.
Compensation, Perks, & Benefits – What You’ll Receive
While the position is part‑time and temporary, Cameron University values the expertise you bring. Compensation starts at $15.50 per hour, with opportunities for performance‑based incentives. Additional benefits include:
- Flexible remote work schedule (with required on‑site Saturday sessions).
- Access to university resources such as library databases, professional development workshops, and career counseling.
- Opportunity to earn certificates in tutoring, educational leadership, or TRiO program administration at reduced cost.
- Networking with faculty, staff, and community partners across the Lawton/Fort Sill region.
- Recognition programs for exemplary service (e.g., Tutor of the Month, Leadership Awards).
- Potential pathway to a full‑time instructional or program‑management role based on performance and program needs.
Career Growth & Professional Development
Cameron University is committed to fostering the professional trajectories of its staff. As Head Tutor, you will gain:
- Leadership experience that is highly transferable to school administration, nonprofit program coordination, or higher‑education teaching roles.
- Mentoring opportunities that enhance coaching and supervisory skills.
- Exposure to grant‑writing processes and federal program compliance (TRiO funding), expanding your administrative competence.
- Invitation to attend regional and national TRiO conferences, where you can share best practices and expand your professional network.
Work Environment & Culture – A Community That Cares
Even though the role is remote, you will be part of a vibrant, mission‑driven community. The Open Doors and Upward Bound teams champion:
- Inclusivity: A welcoming atmosphere that respects diverse cultural, socioeconomic, and linguistic backgrounds.
- Collaboration: Regular virtual staff meetings, peer‑tutor roundtables, and shared digital workspaces that encourage idea exchange.
- Student‑Centric Focus: Every decision is made with the student’s academic and emotional well‑being in mind.
- Accountability: Clear expectations, transparent evaluation processes, and constructive feedback loops.
- Innovation: Encouragement to pilot new tutoring models, incorporate technology, and test evidence‑based instructional strategies.
Our commitment to an equitable work environment extends to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and maintaining a drug‑free, safe workspace for all participants.
Application Process – How to Join Our Team
To be considered, please submit the following materials through the online portal:
- A tailored cover letter that outlines your relevant experience, highlights challenges you’ve overcome, and explains how these experiences align with the Head Tutor role.
- An updated résumé reflecting your academic, tutoring, and leadership background.
- Unofficial transcripts that demonstrate your post‑secondary achievements.
- Contact information for three professional references (names, phone numbers, email addresses).
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Early submission is encouraged, as we aim to fill this critical role promptly to support our upcoming tutoring cycle.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Cameron University is an equal‑opportunity, affirmative‑action employer. We celebrate diversity and encourage applications from veterans, individuals with disabilities, and members of all protected classes.
Ready to Make a Difference?
If you are passionate about guiding young minds, possess the instructional expertise required, and thrive in a dynamic, remote‑first environment, we want to hear from you. Apply today and become a catalyst for academic transformation in the Lawton community.
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