Asst. Director, International Student and Scholar Services

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The Assistant Director facilitates the enrollment of international students and scholars to the University. The position manages immigration-related aspects of the admissions process for international students and scholars, including processing immigration documents related to admission and enrollment, and advising academic departments and incoming students and scholars.  Additionally, the Assistant Director provides services and programs for international students and scholars to contribute to their success while ensuring compliance with federal regulations and reporting requirements.  The Assistant Director serves as a Designated School Official (DSO) for the F-1 visa student program and Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) for the J-1 visa student and scholar program.  The position reports directly to the Director of International Student and Scholar Services.

The salary range is $49,500 to $53,810.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage the process by which initial visa issuance documents (Form I-20/Form DS-2019) applications for students are processed.  Identify opportunities to streamline and enhance processes. 

• Review departmental requests to host international scholars at the University of Miami to verify that scholars meet the criteria for sponsorship.

• Issue initial attendance Form I-20/DS-2019 for all prospective undergraduate, graduate, and readmit international students and scholars.

• Ensure a visa issuance document process for prospective students and scholars that results in accurate, efficient and timely processing of Form I-20/DS-2019.

• Liaise with graduate departments in order to facilitate the admission of international graduate students.

• Provide immigration advising and document processing for international students and scholars, including work authorization approval related to internships and post-completion employment.

• Provide guidance on federal immigration regulations and assistance in resolving complex problems concerning immigration status and compliance.

• Review, analyze and remain up-to-date on federal regulations and procedures affecting international students and scholars. 

• Research, recommend, and implement appropriate policies and procedures, which support international students and scholars in maintaining their immigration and academic status.

• Provide pre-arrival information, orientation, and retention services for international students and scholars.

• Assist with the development and implementation of workshops and other education programs for international students and scholars.

• Provide students and scholars assistance with personal problems, adjustment problems, and coping with crises, and serve as an advocate.

• Serve as a liaison between sponsoring embassies, government, and agencies.

• Process emergency loan and grants for international students.

• Collaborate with the Council of International Students and Organizations (COISO) Advisors and student service departments to help provide special services to the international community and promote meaningful cultural enrichment opportunities.

• Assist with development of professional written materials and website content designed to inform international students and scholars.

• Prepare statistical data and information on international students and scholars for multiple uses throughout the University and externally, including analysis and research.

• Participate in professional development opportunities.

• Other duties as assigned by the Director of International Student & Scholar Services.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of student services processes and procedures and customer service best practices are required.

• Ability to think strategically and analytically and work collaboratively with others. 

• Customer service focused with the ability to build working relationships internally, at UM and externally with various stakeholders.

• General knowledge of Department of Homeland Security and Department of State regulations affecting international students and scholars (faculty and researchers).

• Current working knowledge of immigration federal laws and regulations, as well as knowledge of SEVIS reporting requirements.

• Knowledge of Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) policies and procedures.

• Effective project management and time management skills.  Ability to organize, prioritize and manage projects from inception to completion with strong attention to detail.

• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word and PowerPoint applications, including database management systems, reporting tools, and web-based applications.

• Familiarity with ISSM (formerly fsaATLAS), a web-based case management system, which allows schools to electronically interface with SEVIS.

• Effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Higher Education, International Affairs, Counseling or related field required. Master’s degree preferred.

• Three years of work-related experience. Experience as a Designated School Official (DSO) advising F-1 international students on immigration matters preferred.   

• Any appropriate combination of relevant education and/or work experience may be considered.

The University of Miami is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Females/Minorities/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities are encouraged to apply. Applicants and employees are protected from discrimination based on certain categories protected by Federal law. Click here for additional information.

Job Status:

Full time

Employee Type:

Staff

Pay Grade:

A8