Job Description

University of Utah Job Description

Job Summary

Advises a diverse population of students in regards to their academic planning and progress by utilizing professional advising and guidance skills. Interprets and explains university academic policy and procedure to assist students in making decisions concerning personal educational goals leading to graduation.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a related area plus three years experience in teaching and/or advisement; or Master’s Degree appropriate field and one year experience in teaching and/or advisement; or any equivalent combination of experience and/or education from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved.

Demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills required.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Disclaimer

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification.  It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Essential Functions

1. Meets with students to provide information and guidance on academic-related issues, such as graduation requirements and exceptions, major exploration, course planning and registration, transfer credit evaluation/substitution or advanced degree requirements.
2. Facilitates students' academic progress by evaluating their needs and developing appropriate educational plans. Makes referrals for students who need assistance with overcoming learning obstacles, specialized tutoring, extended or intensive assistance with career decisions or similar needs.
3. Develops and presents education programs designed to supplement or enhance academic preparedness.
4. Collects and disseminates information to students, faculty and departments about changes in major requirements or University policies and adjusts advising strategies as appropriate.
5. Coordinates and/or participates in the advising-related portion of new/transfer student and parent orientation sessions.
6. Maintains students’ academic files that include a record of the advising activity that takes place during each visit.
7. Serves on University committees and makes recommendations that affect curriculum requirements, advising processes and program development and published materials.
8. Coordinates data compilation, statistical reports and correspondence, depending upon the area of assignment.
9. May plan and participate in continuing education for advising staff.
10. May supervise lower level advising staff and/or student employees and participate in hiring, training and evaluating those employees. May oversee the preparation of funding proposals, reports and training materials related to special programs.

Problem Solving

Incumbents are expected to possess extensive knowledge about academic programs, policies and procedures and student support services. The ability to be sensitive to the needs of diverse student populations, such as non-traditional and minority students and students with disabilities is a necessity. Incumbents must also be able to interpret student needs and determine when referral to other University resources is appropriate.

Comments

Some travel may be required.

Work Environment and Level of Frequency typically required

Nearly Continuously: Office environment.

Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be required

Nearly Continuously: Sitting, hearing, listening, talking.

Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking. 

Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.