DESCRIPTION

Under general supervision and working collaboratively with the Graduate Affairs Manager and Director of Student Affairs, the incumbent is responsible for providing academic advising to prospective and continuing graduate students (~500 graduate applicants, ~ 170 graduate students) in the Shu Chien-Gene Lay Department of Bioengineering. This position serves as the Masters Programs Coordinator and responsibilities include but are not limited to student curriculum advising, coordinating admission to the M.S. and MEng degree graduate degree programs including student outreach, recruitment, student matriculation, retention and graduation.

This position is also responsible for new Masters specialized degree programs (Data Science, Imaging, Medical, Device, others) that require expert knowledge to execute distinct duties in a broad spectrum of student services in addition to collaborating on program design to new Masters initiatives. The incumbent will provide back-up assistance for all financial graduate student support and course administration, including scheduling. The incumbent will participate in on- and off-campus meetings and will work closely with the Graduate Affairs Manager and Director of Student Affairs, Chair, Vice-Chair and faculty committees on student affairs matters and programmatic issues.

Applies professional Student Services concepts. Provides varied student services to students, faculty, and department / school / college management. Works on moderately complex issues. Receives assistance on more complex issues.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training.

• Knowledge of advising and counseling techniques.

• Knowledge of University-specific computer application programs and pertinent databases.

• Knowledge of University processes and procedures.

• Understanding of University rules and regulations.

• Interpersonal skills.

• Multicultural competencies; ability to work with diverse populations.

• Skills in service orientation, organization, active listening, and critical thinking.

• Ability in problem identification and reasoning.

• Ability to multi-task; verbal and written communication skills.

• Theoretical and practical knowledge in curriculum administration to advise students on University/departmental program offerings, policy and procedures and curricular requirements.

• Demonstrated experience in Student Affairs and thorough knowledge of graduate admissions policies.

• Ability to balance multiple, often conflicting, priorities with deadlines, constraints, and numerous interrupt

• Demonstrated ability to successfully follow multiple tasks through to completion and in a timely manner.

• Excellent communication skills, written and verbal. Advanced writing skills to independently compose letters and memos, subject to review by supervisor, using correct spelling, grammar, punctuation, composition, text editing and proofreading. Ability to express verbally one's position, plan of action, evaluation or interpretation in a professional, concise and courteous manner. Ability to invite information, constructive criticism, and cooperation from others.

• Ability to interact with a variety of people at all levels. Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with provosts, deans, faculty, staff, students and the public in a professional manner with tact, diplomacy and patience.

• Ability to interact with and clarify procedures for faculty by means of research and management of new policies as needed.

• Ability to utilize independent decision-making skills. Demonstrated effective problem-solving skills, organizational skills, ability to identify, research and analyze complex situations, recommend solutions and determine plan of action. Ability to work with minimal direction and negotiate conflicts.

• Working knowledge of information technology systems and demonstrated ability to use computer software systems for word processing, database manipulation, electronic mail and spreadsheet software.

• Demonstrated record management experience. Proven skill in developing and maintaining accurate, organized records, files, and filing system.

• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently or collaboratively in a highly computerized, high volume, team-orientated environment, exercising good judgment, diplomacy, creativity and initiative in performance of job responsibilities.

• Ability to interpret academic material and adapt it for presentation in brochures, flyers and the general catalog.

• Knowledge of basic math and accounting principles. Ability to analyze and forecast current and future graduate student funding needs. Ability to administer budgets for block grant funds, scholarships, etc.

• Demonstrated experience working with student affairs database systems.

• Work experience in personnel, payroll, financial, and student database systems.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Performance of duties requires access to confidential material, making confidentiality a significant condition of employment.

• Must be willing to work occasional over time and on weekends for special event and/or projects.

• Must be willing to work in a facility in which animal research is conducted.

• Background check required.