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Designated School Official - International Education Specialist
LOCATION: 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University (WBU)
SUPERVISED BY: Director of Global Projects
POSITION CLASSIFICATION: Exempt
POSITIONS SUPERVISED BY: DSO Administrative Assistant
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Twelve months experience in education or public-related services to include experience working with and interacting with diverse, international, multicultural populations or foreign study abroad or comparable international experience. Must possess NAFSA F1 advanced practices and advising or equivalent. Intermediate understanding of immigration laws relative to F1, and F2 visa classification. Must be able to work nontraditional hours, including evenings and weekends. Must be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident in accordance with 8CFR 214.3(l)(1)(i).
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelors’ degree in related field
Formal training by NAFSA / Association of International Educators or equivalent.
Prior experience serving as a Designated School Official
Foreign study abroad or comparable international experience
General Summary: The Designated School Official works with a dynamic team at WBU to process immigration benefits on behalf of the international student of 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University. This position works closely with graduate departments and students throughout the academic journey, providing excellent customer service while also ensuring compliance with university and immigration regulations. Successful applicants must possess demonstrable organizational and communication skills and have the ability multi task and prioritize tasks assigned. Successful applicants must have excellent typing and computer skills, as well as experience with various office software and equipment. Successful applicants must be able to demonstrate interpersonal as well as intercultural communication skills due to the diverse population of students this position helps to service. The Designated School Official will be expected to provide high quality services befitting the Christian mission of the university.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide administrative services to international students, and dependents. Assist with implementing yield and retention activities, orientation and other student programming. Ensure compliance with federal regulations governing the enrollment of international students and travel. Reports to the Director of International Student Services (ISS) or designated supervisor.
- Provide administrative services to international students, scholars, and dependents (including, but not limited to, health insurance, nonimmigrant status, social security, and cross-cultural issues).
- Monitor and stay current on applicable ISS topics including, but not limited to, regulatory updates, Department of Homeland Security guidance, student visa regulations and student support best practices.
- Maintain student files, records and data in accordance with federal, state and university regulations.
- Perform required functions of a Designated School Official in accordance with Department of Homeland Security and Department of State regulations including 8CFR214.2(f), 8CFR214.2(j), 8CFR214.3, 8CFR 274a, and 22 CFR Chapter I Subchapter G Part 62.
- Determine eligibility for benefits of nonimmigrant status including social security numbers, Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers, and Driving Licenses.
- Collaborate with colleagues across campus in providing services and advocacy for international students and initiatives.
- Assist in the preparation of annual reports, audits, on-site reviews and Student-Exchange Visitor Program site visits as assigned.
- Assist with the coordination of services for international students, including assisting in the implementation of programming as assigned.
- Participate in department, division, and university special projects as required. Serve on department, division, and university committees as assigned.
- Perform related duties as assigned.
Skills and Competencies:
- Immigration Laws relative to F1, F2, H-1B, and H4 visa classifications*
- Desktop software (i.e. Microsoft Office Suite); Jenzabar, OnBase, SUNAPSIS and web-based systems
- Written, verbal, and interpersonal communication and intercultural competence – including the ability to relate to international visitors according to their cultures *
- Organizing information and projects, adhering to deadlines
- Work independently and effectively in collaborative groups *
- Work collaboratively with university departments and academic units *
- Organize and prioritize work with a high degree of self-initiative and independence *
- Analyze and perform in-depth research on complex immigration issues *
- Work independently and as part of a team
- Possess considerable attention to detail, a high level of quality control, and maintain a high customer focus with contacts *
- Assimilate and maintain confidential data *
- Multi-task while managing multiple projects and assignments to meet deadlines within budget*
Assessments:
Asterisk (*) indicates knowledge, skills, and abilities which require assessments.
Working Conditions/Physical Requirements:
Light work. Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently to move objects. Incumbent must be able to communicate with others. Incumbent may be required to travel from building to building frequently and off campus occasionally.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:
Employment is subject to an introductory period to monitor employee performance. If hired, the prospective employee must present documentation within three (3) days of hire date to establish their identity and employment eligibility as required by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Employee must be able and willing to travel and teach at external campuses. Must be able to operate a licensed motor vehicle, have access to a dependable motor vehicle, and possess a valid state driver’s license. Must have and maintain a satisfactory driver’s record.
51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University does not unlawfully discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic.
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