Director of International Student Services

The Director of International Student Services at Union College serves as the primary resource and advocate for international students. This role provides strategic leadership to support international students' academic, social, and cultural integration on campus, while actively engaging in direct advising and student support. The Director serves as a Designated School Official (DSO) and Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) for the institution, ensuring compliance with federal regulations for F-1 and J-1 visa holders.

Position Title: Director of International Student Services

Pay Status and Classification: Exempt, Regular Full-time

Supervisor: Head Class Dean

Position Purpose: The Director of International Student Services at Union College serves as the primary resource and advocate for international students. This role provides strategic leadership to support international students' academic, social, and cultural integration on campus, while actively engaging in direct advising and student support. The Director serves as the Designated School Official (DSO) and Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) for the institution, ensuring compliance with federal regulations for F-1 and J-1 visa holders.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Documentation and Compliance: Issues immigration documents and processes applications through the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). Maintains accurate records of international students immigration documentation within SEVIS and College systems. Ensures compliance with federal regulations and College policies pertaining to international students. Guides students through new employee hiring processes for on-campus employment, including applying for a social security number. Works closely with Class Deans to ensure proper understanding and application of regulations and policies, taking appropriate initiative and exercising discretion within the scope of assigned duties.

• Student Advising and Support: Advises and assists international students on a variety of matters including immigration and visa regulations and applications, cultural adjustment, personal matters, financial concerns, and College procedures. Refers students to appropriate campus resources. Conducts individual and group advising meetings with students to address any questions or concerns. Advocates for the needs of international students by informing campus policies and practices. 

• Programming and Engagement: Oversees the development and execution of orientation programs for new international students. Works with other departments to provide tailored programming to ensure students understand Title IX, the Code of Conduct, and the Honor Code. Creates and implements initiatives beyond orientation that support the retention, well-being, and academic success of international students. Collaborates with campus partners to enhance career readiness, wellness, cultural exchange, and social engagement opportunities. 

• Administration: Develops and implements a comprehensive strategy for international student services. Maintains and updates policies and procedures. Produces departmental communications, including newsletters, website content, and student resources. Manages the department budget, ensuring effective allocation of resources. Manages programming and event logistics. Actively participates in professional development on the regulations governing international students about College policies and procedures that ensure ongoing compliance. 

Qualifications:

• A Bachelor's degree and experience working with international students in higher education, and/or a combination of relevant education, training, certifications, and/or work experience. A Master’s degree is preferred.

• Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident in order to serve as a Designated School Official (DSO) and an Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO), as required by federal regulations.

• Strong knowledge of SEVIS, F-1 and J-1 visa regulations, and international student compliance requirements.

• The ability to work evening and weekend hours is required, especially during Orientation and during other critical times during the academic year. Must be available on-call during peak travel times. 

• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills informed by a deep cross-cultural understanding. 

• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with diverse student populations and