Coordinator International Student Services - Padnos International Center

Position Overview:

This position is primarily responsible for supporting accepted international students. They provide guidance and support to students related to immigration, cultural adjustment, academic adjustment, integration, and other practical matters. The position is essential in providing immigration advice on student regulations including work authorization for F1 and J1 students. Planning, implementing, and assessing international student orientation is a significant portion of this position.

Salary & Benefits:

Minimum starting salary of $52,000, commensurate with experience

Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, life insurance, generous employer retirement contributions, wellness resources and tuition waiver effective on date of hire. 

Primary Duties:

• Advise students on immigration, financial, academic, cultural, and social matters to international students, from initial inquiries through alumni engagement. This includes expert counseling on financial aid and work authorizations such as OPT/STEM OPT.  

• Design, implement, and evaluate orientation programs each semester, equipping international students with tools to navigate academic, cultural, and legal transitions successfully.   

• Design and execute events to facilitate student engagement on-campus, promoting meaningful connections between international and domestic students, faculty, and staff, as well as fostering ties with the local community.   

• Serve as a Designated School Official (DSO) for F-1 visa programs and an Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) for J-1 visa programs by interpreting and adhering to immigration policies, updating and maintaining student records in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), and advising students according to immigration regulations.  

• Plan and execute events to connect students with campus resources and cultural opportunities, fostering their academic and social development on and off campus.  

• Conduct one-on-one consultations to address student concerns, connect them with essential resources, and advocate for their needs in areas such as housing, academics, and dining services.  

• Cultivate partnerships with local organizations to provide employment and cultural opportunities for students. Represent GVSU and the Padnos International Center at community and global events to strengthen institutional partnerships.  

• Hire, train, and supervise students staff, including front-desk personnel, Graduate Assistants, and orientation leaders, ensuring high standards in customer service and student support.  

• Develop and manage digital communication strategies, ensuring timely and impactful messaging to international students. Deliver presentations and maintain consistent, effective one-on-one engagement.  

• Serve as the primary liaison for J-1 Sponsored Student Programs, manage sponsor relations, and contribute to committees like the International Student Scholarship Selection Committee, enhancing the university's global and student-focused initiatives.  

• Perform other duties as assigned. 
   

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Bachelor’s degree  

• 3 years of related experience 

• Intermediate knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, email, and database software programs 

• Excellent intercultural and interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate with sensitivity and confidentiality. 

• Must demonstrate excellent judgment and the ability to manage