International Student and Scholar Specialist

About Us

Since our founding in 2005, Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) has been dedicated to providing an exceptional educational experience to our students. At GGC, we believe that our students' success is our success, and we are committed to creating a culture that supports and uplifts them throughout their academic journey.

As a member of our faculty or staff, you will become part of a dedicated and passionate community of educators and professionals. Together, we work towards a common goal of empowering our students to achieve their full potential, both academically and personally. We take pride in our student body, which represents a multitude of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. Whether you are involved in teaching or providing essential services, your contribution will make a significant impact on the lives of our students and the broader community.

In addition to our commitment to student success, we also value the well-being and professional growth of our employees. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, designed to support the needs of our faculty and staff. From competitive compensation to health and wellness programs, and professional development opportunities to work-life balance initiatives, we strive to create an environment where everyone can thrive and feel valued.

Located in the thriving community of Gwinnett County, GGC offers a rich cultural and social landscape that enhances the overall college experience. Our backdrop is a beautiful, modern 260-acre campus located just 30 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta. Our students and employees benefit from the close proximity to various local amenities, including shopping, dining, entertainment, and outdoor recreational opportunities. This vibrant community serves as an extension of our campus, providing a stimulating environment for personal and professional growth.

Join GGC and become part of a dynamic team that plays a pivotal role in shaping the lives and celebrating the achievements of our students. Together, let's make a positive impact and empower the next generation of leaders.

Job Summary

Reporting to the Associate Director of International Students and Scholars, GCC Internationalization, the international student and scholar specialist serves as the primary contact and resource for international students and scholars, supporting their academic, personal, and cultural adjustment, while ensuring individual and institutional compliance with Federal immigration regulations. This role serves degree and non-degree seeking international students (including those from GGC’s English Language Institute), serves as a Designated School Official (DSO) and an Alternate Responsible Officer, and is the advisor to the International Student Association. These and other responsibilities may include driving students within the Metropolitan Atlanta area.

U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency is required to serve as a Designated School Official (DSO) in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), in accordance with federal regulations.

Responsibilities

• Manage documents related to international student enrollment and matriculation, including issuing immigration documents (I-20s and DS-2019s), maintaining accurate international student and scholar SEVIS records, assisting with international transcript evaluations, and verifying financial documents.
• Develop and implement pre-arrival processes (including housing and transportation) and orientation programs for international students and scholars
• Advise international students and scholars on immigration policies and procedures
• Advise students on cultural adjustment, academic planning and resources, student conduct/integrity, college support services, health insurance, and tax resources
• Assist in educating the campus community about the international student experience and provide technical training.
• Assist in the development, implementation, and assessment of programming for international students that addresses culture, cultural adjustment, leadership, and campus integration, including teaching the international student sections of first-year seminars.
• Support College-wide international recruitment, enrollment of international students, and international student persistence initiatives
• Assist with international student and scholar data collection and preparation of reports

Required Qualifications

• 4 Year / Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution of higher education
• 2-3 years of professional experience in international student and scholar services or a related area concerned with immigration advising and institutional regulatory compliance
• Experience in using SEVIS
• Application of F-1 and J1 regulations
• Experience as a Designated School Official (DSO) experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience using student information systems (e.g., Banner), and electronic advising tools (e.g. Navigate, Terra Dotta)
• Demonstrated excellence in serving a culturally globally rich student population
• Familiarity with recruitment practices and strategies
• Knowledge of international transcript evaluation
• Active participation in NAFSA and/or other international student and scholar professional communities
• Fluency in a second language

Proposed Salary

42,100 - 50,500

Salary offer will be dependent on candidate's experience and qualifications, internal equity considerations, budget availability, and salary administration guidelines.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Knowledge of U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Department of State (DOS) regulations regarding F-1 and J-1 statuses.
• Ability to translate complex, evolving federal regulations into clear, actionable advice for students, scholars, and campus stakeholders.
• Ability to maintain accurate electronic records such as I-20/DS-2019s and track deadlines
• Ability to interact effectively and appropriately with people from various backgrounds and those whose first language is not English
• Ability to remain comfortable and productive in unfamiliar or unclear situations
• Familiarity with university policies regarding admissions, student conduct, academic progress
• Ability to handle sensitive or emergency situations with confidentiality, tact, and composure.
• Effective, consistent, and transparent communication, including public speaking and written communication
• Understanding of event logistics, timelines, and production methods.