Position Function:
The Assistant Director of International Services Office (ISO) is responsible for overseeing the orientation and integration of new international students at Mississippi State University (MSU), for providing immigration advising for international students, and will serve as a SEVIS Designated School Official (DSO)/Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO). The Assistant Director will coordinate and implement various programs and services to support the academic, social, and cultural adjustment of international students to the MSU community. The Assistant Director will also supervise and train the ISO staff and student workers, and collaborate with other campus units and external partners to promote the internationalization of MSU.
Salary Grade: 15
Please see Staff Compensation Structure for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Area of Specialization:
International Education
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Plan, organize, and execute the orientation program for new international students, including pre-arrival communication, arrival assistance, immigration check-in, academic advising, campus tours, and social events.
2. Develop and implement ongoing activities and workshops to enhance the academic success, personal growth, and cross-cultural competence of international students.
3. Provide guidance and support to international students on matters related to immigration, health insurance, employment, academic policies, and campus resources.
4. Assist the ISO Director in developing and managing the ISO website, social media, and newsletters to disseminate information and promote the ISO programs and services.
5. Assist the ISO Director in training, and evaluating the ISO staff and student workers, and foster a positive and collaborative work environment.
6. Establish and maintain effective relationships with other campus units, such as Admissions, Registrar, Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, Holmes Cultural Diversity Center, Housing, and Career Services, to facilitate the enrollment and retention of international students.
7. Engage with external partners, such as sponsors, embassies, consulates, and community organizations, to expand the outreach and support for international students.
8. Assist the Director of ISO in developing and implementing policies, procedures, and assessment tools to ensure the quality and compliance of the ISO operations.
9. Serves as a primary contact for international students to build relationships that connect them with university services, on-campus resources, and programs necessary for success in the classroom and beyond; including student needs based on cultural adjustment, educational planning, and academic/personal concerns or difficulties.
10. Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of ISO.
Minimum Qualifications:
Master's degree in international education, higher education, student affairs, or a related field.
Preferred Qualifications:
Demonstrated knowledge of F-1 and J-1 visa regulations and best practices.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
• Strong ability to work autonomously and independently to manage project.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and cross-cultural skills.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and leadership skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced and diverse environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Banner, Terra Dotta, and other relevant software.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed.
• Ability to be flexible and adjust to changing tasks, priorities and deadlines.
• Experience with making presentations and leading meetings.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
1. Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
2. No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
3. International travel may be required to perform some responsibilities
Instructions for Applying:
All applicants must apply online at www.msujobs.msstate.edu.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
