Assistant Director of Academic Advising, College of Education

Position Overview

The Advising and Certification Center in the College of Education is seeking a highly motivated and professional Assistant Director of Academic Advising to support student success and advising excellence. Reporting to the Senior Director of Student Academic Services, the Assistant Director will lead and mentor a team of five full-time academic advisers while shaping high-quality advising practices. The role oversees advising initiatives, supports orientation and recruitment efforts, and guides students and staff through complex academic policies to promote student success and program excellence.

• Mentor and support direct reports by assisting with goal setting and progress tracking, and applying professional advising expertise to guide staff through complex and challenging situations.
• Assist in the development and enhancement of academic advising programs, including recommending and presenting to staff and faculty on best practices for continuous improvement.
• Provide academic advising to both exploring and currently enrolled undergraduate students seeking admission to the College of Education.
• Advise non‑assigned students on complex academic pathways, including 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), including scheduling, logistics, and presenter coordination.
• Represent the College of Education by delivering presentations to prospective students, admitted students, and their 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, including preparing 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.

All responsibilities are performed while maintaining strict confidentiality of student records and information.

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

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

After the initial fully on‑site training period, this position requires a minimum of four days per week of on‑site work at the designated work location at Penn State’s University Park campus.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $59,580.00 – $86,400.00. Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; robust retirement plans; substantial paid time off (holidays, vacation and sick time); and a generous 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and 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.