Education Support Specialist

Specialist in the Office of Graduate Affairs provides comprehensive student services and operational support for approximately 2,000 active graduate students enrolled in more than 47 graduate programs across all Radford University campuses and online offerings. This position serves as the primary liaison between graduate students and university offices including the Registrar, Financial Aid, Bursar, Graduate Admissions, Student Accounts, and academic departments; ensuring effective communication, issue resolution, and proactive coordination that supports graduate student retention and success. The specialist ensures timely, accurate, and student-centered communication while maintaining compliance with university and state policies. A strong commitment to professionalism, student advocacy, and collaborative problem-solving is essential for this role. Required Qualifications Demonstrated experience providing customer service in a university, business, or student-support environment. Strong written and verbal communication skills with a student-centered approach. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn institutional systems such as Banner, Slate, and DegreeWorks. Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities with accuracy and attention to detail. Commitment to confidentiality, professionalism, and continuous improvement. Preferred Qualifications: Experience working in higher education, preferably in graduate studies, student services, or registrar environments. Familiarity with FERPA regulations and university academic policies and procedures. Proficiency in Banner, Slate, and DegreeWorks. Special Instructions to Applicants Please submit a cover letter and resume. Is this position Grant Funded: No Is this position restricted: No Is this position 100% telework: No Hours Per Week: 40 Months per Year: 12 Statement of Economic Interest Required: No FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Work Classification: Classified Staff Employee Classification: Education Support Spec II Department: Graduate Affairs, Office of Salary: $38,000-$43,000 (Commensurate with experience and qualifications) Department Contact Name: Emily Close Department Contact Phone: 540-831-6344 Department Contact Email: eclose@radford.edu Equal Opportunity Statement: Radford University does not discriminate with regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, veteran status, national origin, religion, or political affiliation in the administration of its educational programs, activities, admission or employment practices. Clery Statement In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, Radford University publishes an Annual Security and Fire Safety Report. The report includes the university’s policies, procedures, and programs concerning safety and security, as well as three years’ of crime statistics for our campus. As a prospective employee, you are entitled to a copy of this report. The report and statistical data can be found online at Radford.edu/police. You may also request a paper copy of the report from the Radford University Police Department located at 810 East Main Street PO Box 6883, Radford, VA, 24142. Reasonable Accommodation Statement If you are an individual with a disability and desire accommodation in the application process please contact the hiring department. Criminal Background Check Statement Radford University is committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all employees, students, volunteers, and stakeholders. As part of our hiring and screening process, we conduct criminal background checks in compliance with Virginia Code § 19.2-389 and other applicable state and federal laws. Successful candidates will be required to have a criminal background check.