Advising Specialist

Job Description

Job Description Summary

The Advising Specialist is responsible for providing direction, information, personal attention, care and support to students in the development of their academic and career goals, including the path to application to one of SFs limited enrollment programs. Additionally, the Advising Specialist works closely with the Academic Chairs and department Directors to plan and implement recruitment opportunities.

Job Description

Responsibilities and Duties Include:

• Assists in all advisement efforts, including pre-requisite and program course academic advisement, using various modes of communication, embracing progressive advisement and student success in a technology rich environment.
• Tracks students progress through their program of study, providing guidance and assistance as needed.
• Interprets and explains requirements for vocational certificates, terminal and transfer degrees.
• Responds to student inquires and requests for information via phone, email, zoom, social media, etc.
• Participates in recruitment and marketing events.
• Assists the Director with maintenance and distribution of recruitment materials (fliers, website, etc.)
• Speaks to small and large groups of potential students and their parents, explaining programs, career opportunities, educational and career lattices and employment potential.
• Processes and evaluates application and admissions materials from potential students, responding appropriately, in a timely manner.
• Works with Academic Chairs and staff to maintain accurate student records, strictly honoring the privacy and security of student records and other sensitive information according to appropriate state, federal and college regulations, policies and procedures.
• Maintains positive and close relationships with Academic Chairs to ensure a smooth admissions process to limited enrollment programs, assist students with registration and enrollment issues, monitor student progress, provide accurate and timely data, and coordinate tours.
• Completes reporting requirements for internal and external stakeholders.
• Networks with area schools and industry partners.
• Collaborates with SFs Counseling Center, Career Resources Center, Office for Admissions, and other offices across campus.
• Serves on college committees as appropriate.
• Works as a positive and effective team member in a dynamic environment.
• Provides service excellence through courteous, informed, timely, accessible and professional engagement.
• Performs other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

Required: A bachelors degree in education or a relevant field with two (2) years of experience in academic advisement, student affairs, student services, counseling, mentoring, or recruitment or a combination of education and experience equal to six (6) years is required.

Additional Requirements: A criminal background check will be conducted.

General Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to work successfully in a multi-cultural environment.
• Adaptability to Change – able to be flexible and supportive, able to positively and proactively assimilate change in rapid growth environment.
• Analytical Aptitude & Problem Solving - able to analyze information, problems, situations, practices and/or procedures, collect and interpret data, reason logically, establish facts, identify and define existing and potential issues, recognize the interrelationships among elements, draw valid conclusions, develop recommendations, as well as alternative courses of action, select appropriate course, follow up, and evaluate.
• Communication – able to effectively communicate in a professional, diplomatic, empathetic, and tactful manner using preferred method and level as applicable to the job.
• Critical Thinking & Judgement - able to make well-reasoned, sensible, and timely decisions based on careful, objective review and informed analysis of available information, considerations, and other factors.
• Customer Service – ability to respond promptly and courteously to all questions from students and faculty, demonstrating patience and persistence when helping students with little or no computer skills.
• Ethics – able to demonstrate integrity, professionalism, civility, and a high degree of ethics in all job-related actions.
• Organization & Time Management – able to plan, schedule, and organize tasks related to the job to achieve goals within or ahead of established time frames.
• Problem Solving – proven skills in identifying issues, determining their cause, developing creative solutions, and following through with implementing resolutions.
• Relationship Management – able to personally provide high level of interactive service to others, building relationships and addressing identified needs.
• Results Orientation – proven ability to set and exceed established targets.
• Systems & Software - proficient level of knowledge of Microsoft Office and/or relevant position software programs.
• Detail Oriented - Proven accuracy and attention to detail.
• Multi-task - Ability to expeditiously organize, coordinate, manage, prioritize, and perform multiple tasks simultaneously to swiftly assess a situation, determine a logical course of action, and apply the appropriate response.