Academic Advising Professional II, Chemistry & Biochemistry

Position Highlights

The College of Science and the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry are seeking an enthusiastic professional to join our academic advising team. The Academic Advisor II will serve as a front‑line contact for students majoring in Chemistry or Biochemistry at the main campus location and may assist with wider‑reaching project work for the College of Science. The advisor provides proactive, student‑centered advising to undergraduate students, supporting their academic, personal, and professional development.

As a key point of contact, the advisor helps students navigate university policies, select courses, connect with resources, and create academic plans aligned with their goals. This role fosters student engagement, promotes retention, and contributes to a positive university experience by building supportive relationships and connecting students with campus resources. The advisor maintains current knowledge of academic programs, college and university requirements, and guides students effectively.

Up to one day per week work from home may be permitted and must be negotiated with the supervisor.

• Creates and presents academic and program information to new first‑year and transfer students and their guests at New Student Orientation.
• Assists students in course planning to meet academic requirements and/or career preparation; applies transfer credits from other academic institutions based on established articulation rules.
• Interprets and advises students on University, College, and Departmental policies and procedures.
• Identifies and evaluates options for students who must petition for an exception to a course or program requirement; makes approved adjustments to the student’s program of study.
• Monitors the academic progress of students using dashboards and reports; identifies current and potential needs or problem areas.
• Conducts student outreach and refers students to appropriate campus resources for further assistance as needed.
• Assesses students’ stage of development (academic, career, and personal) to promote academic growth by determining suitable developmental tasks and engagement opportunities.
• Helps students explore internships, club involvement, volunteer work, and undergraduate research opportunities.
• Assists students in establishing realistic and attainable academic and career goals; refers students to additional career counseling services as needed.

• Works as part of a small team to provide drop‑in assistance, triage, and referrals to College of Science majors.
• May assist the College with projects focused on student success and retention.
• May assist junior advisors with training and skill‑building.

• Maintains materials to help students navigate their degree paths, such as four‑year plans and course checklists.
• May assist with manual enrollment into department courses, including research, preceptorship, and internships for university credit.
• Processes degree checks/audits for students planning to graduate.
• Participates in campus‑wide committees and special projects to continue professional development and stay up to date on advising practices.
• May provide input to faculty‑led undergraduate committees such as curriculum, scholarships, assessment, and student awards.
• Maintains student files, records, and database; documents all pertinent student information in Trellis (Advising Notes) and processes program/plan changes in UAccess.

• General knowledge of student advising, development, and career planning principles; knowledge of academic policies.
• Knowledge of FERPA regulations.
• Ability to employ effective advising techniques such as active listening, empathy, and motivational interviewing; strong interpersonal skills.
• Familiarity with college curriculum and course sequencing.
• Problem‑solving and critical‑thinking skills.
• Proficiency in student information systems.
• Competence in working with varied student populations and a passion for fostering an inclusive environment.
• Ability to identify students’ needs and recommend appropriate resources.
• Ability to build rapport with students.
• Ability to evaluate academic progress and identify barriers to success.
• Ability to work effectively independently and in team environments; self‑motivated.

• Minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience, or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Bachelor’s degree required.