University Counselor I/II

Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society. Essential functions (job duties): Serve as a Designated School Official (DSO) for F-1 students and an Alternative Responsible Officer (ARO) for J-1 exchange visitors, ensuring compliance with federal immigration regulations and SEVIS requirements. Issue and maintain Form I-20s and DS-2019s and ensure accurate and timely maintenance of student and scholar immigration records. Provide comprehensive immigration advising to F-1 and J-1 students and scholars on maintaining status, travel, employment authorization, program changes, dependents, and other immigration matters. Advise students and scholars on complex immigration matters involving federal regulations, University policies, and individual circumstances. Counsel F-1 students regarding CPT, OPT, STEM OPT, on-campus employment, and other employment-related requirements. Counsel J-1 scholars regarding employment authorization, program requirements, status maintenance, and applicable Department of State regulations. Prepare and file H-1B petitions on behalf of eligible University employees and scholars, ensuring compliance with applicable USCIS requirements and deadlines. Coordinate with the University Immigration Attorney on permanent residence matters, including preparation and coordination of University-sponsored employment-based permanent residence petitions. Review immigration applications, petitions, supporting documentation, and requests for accuracy, completeness, and regulatory compliance. Interpret and apply complex and frequently changing regulations and guidance issued by USCIS, DHS, SEVP, and the Department of State. Monitor federal regulatory and policy changes and assess their impact on University students, scholars, employees, and OISS operations. Identify potential immigration compliance issues and provide appropriate guidance, escalation, and resolution in consultation with OISS leadership and legal counsel when necessary. Maintain accurate records and ensure timely reporting and updates in SEVIS and other University systems. Collaborate with academic departments, Human Resources, faculty, administrators, and other University offices to resolve immigration, employment, and compliance matters. Provide individual advising through appointments, email, telephone, and other communication channels while managing a high volume of inquiries and cases. Conduct orientations, workshops, presentations, and training programs for international students, scholars, faculty, staff, and University departments. Develop and maintain immigration advising materials, communications, webpages, presentations, and other resources to ensure accurate dissemination of regulatory information. Support the recruitment, enrollment, retention, and academic success of international students and scholars through timely and effective advising and support services. Participate in the development and implementation of OISS policies, procedures, and processes in response to changes in federal regulations and University priorities. Maintain confidentiality and exercise professional judgment when handling sensitive immigration, employment, academic, and personal information. Participate in professional development and maintain current knowledge of international education practices and federal immigration regulations. Perform other related duties and special projects assigned by OISS leadership. Qualifications: Education: Bachelor’s (Level 1) or Master’s (Level II) degree in international studies, international education, social sciences, counseling, or a related field from an accredited college or university. Candidates with an equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience may be considered. Experience: Requires a minimum of one year of professional experience in international student and/or scholar advising, immigration advising, or a closely related field. Demonstrated knowledge of current U.S. immigration laws, regulations, and procedures governing F-1, J-1, H-1B, and employment-based permanent residence is required. Experience with SEVIS, immigration petition preparation, and advising within a higher education environment is strongly preferred. School/College/Division: H92 - VP Student Affairs Primary department: H9209 - International Students & Scholars (H9209) Employment type: Regular Employee Job type: Full Time Job category: Academic/Faculty Funding/salary information: Compensation type: Annual Salary Hourly rate: Salary minimum: TBD Salary hire maximum: TBD Working conditions: Office environment Job openings: Number of openings: 1 Reposted position: No Reposted reason: None (New Requisition) Prior posting/requisition number: Background check requirements: University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.