DESCRIPTION

Under the direction of the Assistant Director of Admissions, Transfer Programs, the Transfer Admissions Specialist identifies potential transfer students and provides admissions-related information to the general public, including but not limited to: prospective applicants, parents, faculty, high-school and community college counselors, and campus colleagues. A strong focus of this position will be on strengthening the transfer pipeline for underrepresented populations and underserved communities including California community colleges that have low transfer rates to UC in support of the statewide Student Academic Preparation and Educational Partnerships (SAPEP) initiative.

The Transfer Admissions Specialist works in a fast-paced, deadline-driven, high-demand office which requires professionalism, skills in presenting information, attention to detail, the ability to collaborate, and flexibility. This position ensures good relationships with the public and institutions and organizations involved in outreach/recruitment, as well as serves as a resource to the external community, such as high school and community college counselors, representatives from other universities, and UC San Diego advisors and administrators. This position will independently review and /or evaluate applications for the admission of transfer applicants. This position will use professional judgment and comprehensive knowledge of the educational processes, including acceptance of transfer coursework from domestic institutions and international educational systems, in determining whether applicants meet the requirements for admission. The position of Transfer Admissions Specialist is expected to perform with a high level of professionalism as a representative of UC San Diego among many constituencies, oftentimes conveying complicated or sensitive information. The position serves as a resource to the staff in Admissions for issues and problems related to transfer admission to the University.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in related area and / or three years' experience in undergraduate admissions, student advising or student counseling and/or equivalent experience/training.

• Thorough knowledge and experience working with a diverse student population. Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with a diverse group of prospective students and families, counselors, administrators, the general public and campus community including multicultural and non-traditional populations. Familiarity with transfer student populations and their unique needs.

• Ability to interpret and communicate University policies and procedures to prospective students and the public. Ability to interpret broadly written faculty guidelines and use independent judgment in making admission decisions. Aptitude to remain abreast of changes to policy, procedures and adjust to changes as required.

• Ability to conduct professional presentations before large and small groups, representing the University and the Office of Admissions.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills. Ability to be an active listener and provide excellent constituent/customer service in all interactions - in person, on the phone and electronically, demonstrating professionalism at all times.

• Ability to develop recruitment programs, and design effective materials. Ability to independently organize and implement informational programs for students and parents, counselors, community-based organizations, and the general public.

• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative relationships with schools, universities, community organizations, and other institutions.

• Ability to assess workload, organize and prioritize work to meet multiple deadlines with efficiency and accuracy in a fast-paced environment with changing demands and minimal supervision.

• Demonstrated analytical, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Accurate computational skills and ability to interpret and implement policies and procedures when resolving issues.

• Capacity to be precise and pay close attention to detail including the ability to independently review records and develop itineraries, schedules and plan recruitment activities and programs.

• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent and unsupervised individual evaluations and assessments (domestic and international), and provide admissions counseling for prospective students, admitted and denied applicants, current UC San Diego undergraduates, high school and community college counselors, college advisors and directors of advising, military recruiters and others.

• Thorough and comprehensive knowledge of academic programs, including curricula, admissions requirements, and financial aid programs, at colleges / universities and specifically at UC, and / or specific colleges and schools. Familiarity with educational trends, common and best practices at post-secondary higher education institutions across the nation

• Ability to maintain confidentiality, discretion and exercise good judgment in handling sensitive and confidential matters.

• Detailed knowledge of complex and broadly written guidelines governing evaluation, admission and deferral of freshman and transfer applicants, both domestic and international.

• Ability to interpret broadly written guidelines and use independent judgment in making admission decisions.

• Knowledge of admission-related technology including CRM (Customer Relationship Management) systems. Efficiency in utilizing technology and data to effectively execute the responsibilities of an Admissions Officer, from outreach and recruitment to application review, evaluation and yield.

• Strong experience in implementing programs and workshops with high schools and community colleges for recruitment and yield purposes.

• Familiarity in the use of a personal computer including the use of the Microsoft Office Suite (Work, Excel, PowerPoint). Knowledge of email systems as a primary form of communication; accomplished skill at navigating the internet for information retrieval.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Duties may require direct contact with children (defined as individuals under the age of 18). Completion of the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA) form is required.

• Job offer is contingent upon a satisfactory clearance based on background check results.

• Available to work evenings/weekends during peak periods.

• Position includes substantial domestic travel.

• Must have reliable transportation for domestic travel as needed.

• Must be able to withstand the demands of heavy public contact.