The Assistant Director reports to the Director, Center for International Students and Scholars. The Assistant Director supports the Director in providing leadership in all aspects of international student services, serving as DSO (Designated School Official) and ARO (Alternative Responsible Officer) in SEVIS to support compliance with immigration-related government policy and regulations.
Essential Duties:
Immigration Coordination and Oversight
Serve as a resource for information regarding the interpretation and application of Department of Homeland Security, US Citizenship and Immigration Services and Department of State regulations pertaining to international students and scholars. Serve as Designated School Official (DSO) for F-1 Visa Program and Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) for J-1 Exchange Visitor Program.
Responsible for Bentley University’s SEVIS reporting and CISS mandated reporting
Manage complex immigration cases and support CISS staff in case of Director’s absence.
Maintain a caseload of F-1 and J-1 students.
Assist with immigration compliance and advising for J-1 scholars.
Technology Management
Administer SEVIS batch/data management system, including but not limited to routine maintenance and implementation of upgrades.
Serve as the CISS liaison with Bentley’s IT Department and Student Affairs Associate Director for Business Systems to use technology to effectively communicate with students, generate, evaluate, and troubleshoot relevant reports and queries.
Communications, Marketing and Programming
Disseminate information to international students and scholars regarding maintenance of valid immigration status, immigration regulatory changes, employment authorization, etc. Collaborate with Senior Administrative Coordinator on CISS communications and coordination of events.
Foster cross cross-cultural understanding across the institution; partner and communicate with various campus support units and colleagues to develop and execute programmatic support for international students (mentoring programs, information sessions, academic initiatives
Maintain, enhance, and update CISS website.
Share responsibility with CISS director for developing and conducting orientation programs and activities for international students.
Conduct immigration workshops and other CISS sponsored programs.
Supervision
Graduate intern (1-2 per semester)
Other Duties:
Serve as a BentleyPlus advisor by attending role-specific trainings, facilitating advising sessions, and sending follow-up communications to advisees.
Other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
Master's degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs, International Education, or related field. 3-5 years of work experience in international student and scholar advising or related. 7-10 years of experience may be substituted for an advanced degree.
Ability to become a DSO and ARO, which requires a U.S. permanent resident or citizen status.
Current knowledge of SEVIS functionality, reporting requirements and batch software systems.
Demonstrated commitment to the goals and values of international education.
Administrative experience working in higher education and/or an office involved in international programs.
Ability to work effectively with government officials, faculty members, undergraduate and graduate students, university administrators and the general public.
Ability to speak and communicate effectively with diverse groups and constituencies.
Ability to work effectively in a culturally diverse community.
Ability to multitask and work under pressure.
Ability to work occasional nights and weekends as needed.
Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in an educational environment.
Work Environment:
The Center for International Students and Scholars can be very busy several times a year. The ability to be flexible and manage simultaneous tasks is important. During International Orientation and other scheduled activities and programs, occasional weekend and evening hours are necessary. Travel to the NAFSA national and regional conferences and local workshops/meetings such as BAROS are expected, on a rotating basis with other team members.
There are very few physical demands. Accuracy and attention to detail is critical as many legal matters are being dealt with. Computer skills are critical and much time is spent looking at a computer screen which may cause fatigue.
Bentley University requires references checks and may conduct other pre-employment screening.
DIVERSITY STATEMENT
Bentley University strives to create a campus community that welcomes the exchange of ideas, and fosters a culture that values differences and views them as a strength in our community.
Bentley University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, building strength through diversity. The University is committed to building a community of talented students, faculty and staff who reflect the diversity of global business. We strongly encourage applications from persons from underrepresented groups, individuals with disabilities, covered veterans and those with diverse experiences and backgrounds.
