International Srvc Coordinator

Job Summary

The Principal Designated School Official (PDSO) is responsible for overseeing the F-1 international student program and ensuring compliance with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) regulations. The PDSO will serve as the primary point of contact for F-1 students and will manage all aspects of their immigration status from initial admission to post-graduation. This position requires a deep understanding of U.S. immigration regulations and a commitment to providing exceptional support to AU international students throughout their academic journey.

Responsibilities

The duties include, but are not limited to:

• FEDERAL SEVIS REGULATORY COMPLIANCE: Ensure the university's policies and practices comply with SEVIS regulations as mandated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Maintain and update the university's Form I-17 for F-1 program recertification biennial submission to federal authorities. Submit annual verification of AUs SEVIS DSOs. Monitor and report on the status of F-1 students, including enrollment, address changes, and program completion. Track case volume for annual reporting purposes. Maintain and update Banner records as necessary.
• STUDENT ADVISING: Advise F-1 students on immigration regulations, including maintaining status, employment authorization, and travel requirements. Assist students with applications for pre, post, and STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT). Provide guidance on cultural adjustment, academic policies, and personal matters. Conduct orientation sessions and workshops to educate students about immigration requirements and options.
• DOCUMENTATION AND REPORTING: Issue and sign Form I-20 for new and continuing F-1 students. Monitor and track student statuses, ensuring timely completion of academic and immigration-related milestones. Prepare and submit required reports to SEVIS and other government agencies. Maintain accurate records of all F-1 students and ensure data integrity in SEVIS. Serve as SAVE facilitator for AU participation, including assisting Enrollment Management personnel in the use of the SAVE system. Prepare AU's annual F program Open Doors for timely submission. Prepare documentation for audits and compliance reviews by SEVP or other U.S. agencies.
• PROGRAM MANAGEMENT:Develop and implement orientation programs for new international students. Coordinate retention strategies and support services to enhance the international student experience. Collaborate with campus partners, including admissions, academic advising, and student services, to support F-1 students.
• TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT:Train and supervise Designated School Officials (DSOs) on SEVIS regulations and university policies. Stay current with changes in immigration laws and SEVIS updates through professional development and training.
• LIASON AND ADVOCACY: Services (USCIS) and other relevant agencies. Advocate for the needs and concerns of international students within the university community. Assist in the resolution of federal Social Security number and Georgia Division of Driver Services issues for international students.
• OTHER DUTIES: Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

Graduate of an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree or NALA paralegal certification. Two (2) years of experience with higher education immigration services. Knowledge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement regulations related to the F-1 international student program. U.S. Citizenship required for eligibility to be assigned as a Principal Designated School Official (PDSO) for the F-1 International Student Program. Appointment as an F-1 Principal Designated School Official by the federal government authority.

Preferred Qualifications

Three (3) or more years of experience and Master's degree Experience working with international personnel/non-native English speakers. Progressive responsibility in positions that require comprehension of complex procedures. Prior experience working with immigration regulations.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

KNOWLEDGE
Proficient in Microsoft Office and other computer software/databases, including Sunapsis.
Working knowledge of immigration regulations and Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) policies and procedures.

SKILLS
Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
Detail-oriented with strong prioritization and organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple tasks.

ABILITIES
Ability to assess complex immigration matters and convey implications to students, faculty, staff, and non-native English speakers.
Ability to maintain confidentiality.

Shift/Salary/Benefits

Shift: Days; M-F (Work outside of the standard business hours may be required)
Pay Band: B8
Salary: $45,400/annually-$50,000/annually
Salary to be commensurate with qualifications of the selected candidate within the established range (generally minimum-midpoint) of the position
Recruitment Period: Until Filled

Augusta University offers a variety of benefits to full-time benefits-eligible employees and some of our half-time (or more) employees.

Benefits that may be elected could include health insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, Teachers Retirement System (or Optional Retirement Plan), as well as earned vacation time, sick leave, and 13 paid holidays.

Also, our full-time employees who have been employed with us successfully for more than 6 months can be considered for the Tuition Assistance Program. Consider applying with us today!