Deputy Director, International Student Services

Employer: Purdue University

Location: West Lafayette, Indiana

Salary: $96,100 - $110,000 /year

Date posted: Jan 12, 2026

Position Type: Administrative, Academic Affairs, International Programs

Employment Level: Senior-Level

Employment Type: Full Time

Institution Type: Public Four-Year Institutions

Job Details

The Deputy Director of International Student Services supports the Director by providing strategic guidance and operational oversight for a comprehensive international student services unit serving multiple institutional locations. In this role, you will help lead a team of over 25 professional and support staff dedicated to ensuring compliance, success, and well-being for more than 10,000 international students annually. In addition, you will collaborate to uphold federal regulations, institutional policies, and best practices while fostering a welcoming environment that promotes student success.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Serving as an authority on U.S. immigration regulations (F-1 and J-1 visas, Optional and Curricular Practical Training, etc.)
• Helping ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional requirements (SEVIS, DHS)
• Helping develop policies and procedures to mitigate compliance risks
• Evaluating highly complex cases and regulations by engaging with legal counsel and campus leadership as needed
• Contributing to setting vision and direction for international student services
• Aligning unit objectives with the institution’s global engagement strategy
• Assisting in resource allocation and strengthening organizational resilience
• Collaborating on budget planning and promote operational efficiency
• Maintaining advanced knowledge of immigration law and trends and ensure staff training and continuing education
• Supporting the implementation and optimization of technology platforms for compliance and reporting
• Serving as subject matter expert for campus stakeholders
• Supporting the delivery of orientation, advising, and ongoing support services
• Collaborating with academic units and campus partners to promote student success
• Evaluating often complex student scenarios to ensure compliance with federal and university regulations, seeking solutions and best paths forward, promoting student success while preserving institutional integrity
• Liaison with federal agencies, professional associations, and peer institutions
• Representing the university at national/international conferences and consortia
• Assisting in the planning and implementation of the unit’s programming and engagement initiatives

What We're Looking For:

• Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration, International Education, Public Policy, or related field
• 4 years of progressive leadership experience, including at least 3 years in a senior management role overseeing compliance-driven operations
• In lieu of degree consideration will be given to an equivalent combination of related education and required experience (Bachelor's degree + 6 years of experience)
• Demonstrated expertise in U.S. immigration regulations and SEVIS compliance
• Proven ability to lead large teams and manage complex organizational structures
• Broad experience directing large-scale financial operations in higher education, including budget planning, forecasting, and compliance with institutional and regulatory standards

Nice to Have:

• Experience in large Institutional environment, with preference for higher education
• Familiarity with international student recruitment and retention strategies, and global engagement initiatives
• Advanced proficiency in compliance management systems and data analytics
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills

What We'd Like You to Know:

• The successful candidate to be a Citizen or lawful permanent resident of the United States
• To learn more about Purdue’s benefits summary
• Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
• A background check will be required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible For Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contributions immediately
• Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply