CARES First -Generation Peer Lead Mentor

Job TitleCARES First -Generation Peer Lead MentorRequisition NumberDU14643Department Name1B250:Ctr for Acad Res and Enrich SvcsWork Location:Lexington, KYSalary Range$15.00/ hourType Of PositionStudentPosition Time StatusPart-TimeRequired EducationMust be enrolled as a student at UKRequired Related ExperienceN/ARequired License/Registration/CertificationN/APhysical RequirementsAbility to sit, stand, and walk around campus for meetings and eventsAbility to move light materials (folders, event supplies, signage, snacks, etc.), usually under 10–20 lbsShiftVaries as scheduled – 4.5 hours/weekJob SummaryThe Peer Lead Mentor is a peer-centered leadership role within the CARES First-Generation Mentoring Program, designed to support relationship-centered engagement, community-building, and student success. Peer Lead Mentors serve as collaborators, facilitators, and sources of support for Peer Mentors, helping guide the experience of mentoring communities (family clusters)—small, connected groups made up of approximately five Peer Mentors and their mentees.Grounded in the program’s focus on belonging, confidence, and effective navigation of the college experience, Peer Lead Mentors help ensure that mentoring occurs consistently, intentionally, and within a supportive community context rather than in isolation .In this role, Peer Lead Mentors walk alongside mentors as partners in the mentoring process, offering encouragement, perspective, and support as mentors build meaningful relationships with their mentees. Rather than supervising, Peer Lead Mentors serve as collaborative facilitators, helping mentors reflect on their experiences, navigate challenges, and remain engaged in their relationships with mentees.Peer Lead Mentors play an important role in facilitating mentoring community engagement, including:Leading regular mentor check-insSupporting monthly group engagement opportunitiesCoordinating mentoring family cluster gatheringsFostering open communication, connection, and shared accountabilityThese touchpoints are designed to strengthen connection, consistency, and developmental growth across the mentoring experience.In addition to their relational role, Peer Lead Mentors contribute to program effectiveness through light administrative responsibilities. This includes:Tracking mentor-mentee engagement and interaction consistencyIdentifying patterns in participation and connectionProviding brief, strengths-based reflections on mentor-mentee progress over timeThese efforts help ensure that mentoring relationships remain active, responsive, and aligned with program goals.Peer Lead Mentors also serve as a key connector between mentors and CARES First-Generation staff, helping communicate needs, elevate concerns, and maintain alignment with program expectations and values. By fostering collaboration, trust, and consistency, Peer Lead Mentors help cultivate a mentoring environment that promotes student belonging, academic confidence, and proactive engagement with campus resources.Skills / Knowledge / AbilitiesPeer Lead Mentors should demonstrate the ability to:Build trusting, respectful relationships with Peer Mentors and foster a welcoming group environmentFacilitate mentor check-ins, small group conversations, and family cluster gatherings in a way that encourages participation and connectionCommunicate clearly, listen attentively, and respond thoughtfully to questions, concerns, or emerging needsEncourage mentors through support, accountability, and reflection without taking over their role or responsibilitiesHelp mentors think through challenges, identify next steps, and stay engaged in their relationships with menteesRecognize when a concern, pattern, or student need should be elevated to CARES First-Generation staffMaintain appropriate boundaries while serving in a peer support roleTrack mentor-mentee engagement consistently and complete brief progress updates in a timely and organized mannerNotice patterns in participation, responsiveness, or connection and share relevant observations with staffModel dependability by following through on assigned responsibilities, showing up prepared, and communicating proactivelyHelp create a mentoring environment centered on belonging, encouragement, consistency, and shared responsibilityPromote help-seeking and connect mentors to campus resources or staff support when neededReceive feedback openly, reflect on their own leadership, and make adjustments that strengthen the mentoring communityDoes this position have supervisory responsibilities? :NoPreferred Education/ExperienceEducationCurrent undergraduate student at the University of KentuckyCompleted at least one academic year and in good academic standingDemonstrated interest in mentoring, leadership, and community-buildingIntends to be enrolled for the full academic yearExperiencePrior experience as a Peer Mentor, student leader, or peer educatorExperience facilitating or engaging small groups or teamsAbility to support peers through reflection, encouragement, and shared problem-solvingStrong communication skills (active listening, feedback, asking reflective questions)Familiarity with campus resources and navigating support systemsDemonstrated reliability, organization, and follow-throughInterest in developing leadership, facilitation, and mentoring skillsDeadline To Apply05/22/2026Our University CommunityWe value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.