Academic Advisor

All full-time university staff are eligible for VCU’s robust benefits package that includes: comprehensive health benefits, paid annual and holiday leave granted up front, generous tuition benefit, retirement planning and savings options, tax-deferred annuity and cash match programs, employee discounts, well-being resources, abundant opportunities for career development and advancement, and more. Learn more about VCU’s benefits here.

Position Description:

The VCU College of Engineering has brought innovative, real-world engineering education to Central Virginia. Comprised of five different departments (biomedical engineering, chemical and life science engineering, computer science, electrical and computer engineering, and mechanical and nuclear engineering), the VCU College of Engineering enrolls more than 2,000 undergraduate and 450 graduate students in several degree programs supported by approximately 600 full time, part-time, and student employees. Over the past several years, research expenditures have quadrupled and lead to the generation of meaningful research results at the forefront of technology. Collaborations in the VCU College of Engineering include VCU schools, colleges, centers, and other university and industry partners. 

The College of Engineering is seeking an individual for the position of Academic Advisor. This position will provide specialized academic advising services to students and collaborate with University colleagues and public stakeholders, such as students, family members, and prospective students. By integrating interpersonal and communication skills with advanced knowledge of curricula, policies (departmental, college, and University), resources, and student development, the advisor will help students identify and set academic and developmental goals, and make progress toward those goals. The advisor will assist in the development of advising programs and initiatives that facilitate student engagement, success, and retention, provide advising data, and collaborate with academic and other University operational units on matters that impact student recruitment, success, and retention. 

Specifically, the position will be responsible for:

• Provide academic advising services to assigned students
• Advise students regarding departmental, collegiate, and University policies and procedures; programs of study; and the development of appropriate academic plans.
• Introduce students to opportunities that will enrich their academic experience, facilitate their academic and personal development, and support their educational success.
• Teach students how to manage the college experience, navigate the University, make informed decisions, and assume responsibility for their academic success. 
• Identify and assist struggling or at-risk students
• Collaborate with university partners on matters that impact student recruitment, success, and retention
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of student information, including advising interactions
• Monitor student progression in degree program and establish advising checkpoints
• Meet all students on assigned caseload for 30-, 60-, and 90-credit checkpoints.

Minimum Qualifications

These positions require individuals who possess a complex set of technical and interpersonal skills including: 

• Knowledge of theory and application of effective advising techniques. 
• Previous experience working with college students in an academic advising capacity, preferably working with STEM majors. 
• The ability to learn and understand curriculum requirements of assigned and other engineering departments. 
• The ability to think critically and troubleshoot/problem-solve complex academic issues to bring to a swift resolution. 
• Is organized and a self-starter and can prioritize work responsibilities. 
• Effective communication skills, both orally and written. 
• Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration, College Student Personnel, or related area or equivalent combination of education and years of experience that equates to a Master’s Degree
• Demonstrated experience working in and fostering an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from various backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.

Preferred Qualifications

• Engineering or technical background preferred.

Additional Information:

FLSA Status: Exempt
ORP Eligibility:  Yes
VCU Job Title: Academic Advisor AA (10211) - Senior Academic Advisor AA (10216)

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