Assistant Director of Academic Advising, College of Education

Assistant Director of Academic Advising – College of Education

The Advising and Certification Center in the College of Education seeks a highly motivated and professional Assistant Director of Academic Advising to support student success and advising excellence. The role reports to the Senior Director of Student Academic Services and leads a team of five full‑time academic advisors while shaping high‑quality advising practices.

• Mentor and support direct reports, facilitate goal setting, progress tracking, and provide professional advising expertise for complex situations.
• Develop and enhance academic advising programs, recommend best practices, and present enhancements to staff and faculty.
• Provide advising to undergraduate students exploring or enrolled in the College of Education, advising non‑assigned students on academic pathways, certification requirements, transfer credits, re‑enrollment, and major changes.
• Interpret and communicate university policies, procedures, and curriculum requirements to students and faculty.
• Coordinate and support student recruitment and outreach programs, including Accepted Student events and summer engagement initiatives.
• Lead planning and execution of New Student Orientation and specialized orientation programs (transfer, international, change of campus), covering scheduling, logistics, and presenter coordination.
• Represent the College of Education through presentations to prospective students, admitted students, and families at recruitment, orientation, and engagement events.
• Develop and maintain advising communications across digital and print platforms, including social media and informational materials.
• Make appropriate professional referrals to support student success and well‑being.
• Support data management efforts, prepare reports, surveys, and assessment documentation.
• Participate in university‑level advising‑related searches and committee work.
• Assist with the recruitment, hiring, and training of advising and support staff.
• Provide leadership and operational oversight of the Advising and Certification Center in the absence of the Senior Director.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of student records and information in all responsibilities.

• Experience working effectively with students from varied backgrounds and experiences.
• Demonstrated experience interpreting and applying complex academic policies and procedures.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills; inclusive and respectful when working with others.
• Demonstrated ability to confidently present to large and small audiences.

• Master’s Degree.
• 6+ years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Required certifications:
  None.

• Resume or CV.
• Cover letter that explains your interest and qualifications for the position.
• Statement/Philosophy of Academic Advising.

The College of Education supports flexible work arrangements aligned with essential duties. After the initial fully on‑site training period, the position requires a minimum of four days per week of on‑site work at the University Park campus.

Employment will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.;
Penn State does not sponsor employment visas.

• Salary range: $59,580.00 – $86,400.00.
• Competitive benefits package for full‑time employees, including medical, dental, vision coverage, retirement plans, paid time off, and a generous 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses/children.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473. Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging.