Online Professional Studies Program Assistant and Academic Advisor

Online Professional Studies Program Assistant And Academic Advisor

Western Colorado University invites applications for the full-time, remote position of Online Professional Studies Program Assistant and Academic Advisor. The position reports to the Director of Online Professional Studies, works closely with the Online Professional Studies team, and is responsible for providing administrative and operational support to the Online Professional Studies department as well as providing academic advising and enrollment support for new and continuing students in the Adult Degree Completion and Western Flexible Learning programs.

Responsibilities include coordinating course scheduling and supporting faculty communication, including creating and updating course schedules, payment to faculty, syllabi tracking and faculty support. They also assist with purchasing and budget tracking, including processing invoices and reconciling expenses in accordance with university procedures. This position supports scholarship processes by tracking awards, maintaining records, and coordinating communication with students and the Foundation. They also organize and execute program events (e.g., graduation), including logistics, communication, and day-of coordination.

This position maintains and updates program materials and digital content, including website updates and social media and provides general administrative support such as meeting scheduling, note-taking, data tracking, and maintaining accurate student and program records in university systems.

In addition, this position will provide individualized academic advising support for approximately 75-120 students, helping to interpret degree requirements, monitor academic progress and provide proactive support and academic success strategies. The advisor role assists students with registration and navigating academic policies and systems (e.g. Workday and Canvas) and refers students to appropriate campus resources. This position maintains accurate advising records and participates in advising-related trainings and meetings to support best practices for adult learners.

This position will also perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum qualifications include a bachelor's degree and 1-2 years in academic advising, student services or administrative support. Must have the ability to work independently and collaboratively, manage multiple tasks, and maintain confidentiality. Must have proficiency with Microsoft Office and have strong communication, organization, and time management skills, as well as attention to detail in managing records, documents, and program logistics.

Preferred qualifications include experience in program operation or administrative support. Experience working with adult or non-traditional student populations. Familiarity with systems like Workday and Canvas and have an understanding of academic advising principles and practices, particularly for adult and non-traditional learners. Familiarity with higher education administrative systems, policies and procedures is preferred.

Compensation is a base salary range of $46,000 - $48,000. The position is FLSA exempt. Western offers an excellent benefits package including shared premiums for a comprehensive health insurance plan, dental insurance, retirement plan, life insurance, and other insurance options. After one year of employment, Western provides free tuition for dependents enrolled full time in undergraduate programs for up to four years.

Application procedure:
Apply online tern.edu/jobs. Required attachments for online application include a letter of application addressed to Dr. Sally Cirincione, resume, and contact information for three references.

In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

Please direct questions to the search committee chair at scirincione.

Final date to receive applications is August 30, 2026.

Western Colorado University is located in Gunnison, Colorado, about 200 miles southwest of Denver amidst over 2 million acres of public land and a vibrant ranching community. The Gunnison valley provides robust cultural programming and exceptional outdoor recreation. A network of dedicated community organizations enrich the lives of many in the tight-knit community. Living in the valley, one appreciates a vibrant culture of festivals, exhibitions, performances, wellness activities, and more.

In the winter, many enjoy skiing at Crested Butte Mountain Resort and along dozens of miles of cross-country trails. In the summer, bikers, hikers, and runners explore 750-plus miles of singletrack trails, while others delight in fishing, boating, and paddle boarding at Blue Mesa Reservoir or on the Gunnison River and its tributaries. Pre-K-12 students are served by the…