What are the responsibilities and job description for the International Student Services Coordinator/DSO position at Niagara University?
OUTSTANDING BENEFITS UNLIKE ANY OTHER. Low-cost health benefits, 6% 403b contribution, affordable tuition at Niagara University for you and eligible immediate family members, tuition exchange at other designated universities for eligible dependent children, generous holidays (20 days annually), PTO, and ½ day Fridays throughout the summer. Niagara University is also an approved employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Campus life is vibrant and offers free parking, on-site dining options, and fresh coffee at Tim Horton's and Starbucks, all in a beautiful park-like setting. If you'd like to know more, check out all of the NU Facts.
POSITION SUMMARY
The International Services Coordinator/DSO provides comprehensive administrative, compliance, and operational support for international student services. As a Designated School Official (DSO), the coordinator ensures compliance with federal regulations and supports international students from application through arrival and orientation. In addition, this position supports the academic success of international students by conducting ESL intake assessments and teaching two ESL development courses annually. This individual is also responsible for promoting study abroad and supporting students and faculty in study abroad experiences. This role is integral in promoting efficiency, enhancing student services, and supporting both domestic and international enrollment goals.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Serve as a DSO with a focus on issuing I-20s, maintaining SEVIS records.
- Conduct required semester check-ins with international students and verify compliance with federal reporting standards.
- Conduct ESL intake assessments for incoming international students and provide appropriate placement and support.
- Instruct two ESL development courses per academic year focused on supporting academic and linguistic success.
- Facilitate participation in outbound study abroad programs and serve as a liaison with partner institutions.
- Supervise student workers who provide administrative and event support for international initiatives.
- Monitor and manage requisitions, check requests, and procurement of supplies for international operations.
- Provide documentation and compliance support, including secure recordkeeping and assisting with document issue resolution.
- Serve as a backup to the Primary Designated School Official (DSO) providing overflow support during peak periods on CPT and OPT processing.
- Support special projects and collaborative initiatives as assigned.
- Perform other duties as needed to support the goals of the International Enrollment team.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree required with some graduate level coursework completed; Master's degree preferred, especially in TESOL, Applied Linguistics, Higher Education, or a related field
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in administrative support or student services; experience in higher education strongly preferred.
- Experience teaching ESL or working with multilingual learners in academic settings strongly preferred.
- S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency required to serve as a Designated School Official (DSO).
- Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills with a high degree of cultural awareness.
- Strong attention to detail, ability to multitask, and organizational skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and CRM systems (Slate preferred).
- Ability to handle confidential student data and documents with discretion.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION – % OF TIME
- 50% – Serve international students through immigration compliance (DSO),
- 20%- ESL assessment and instruction,
- 30% study abroad advisement and development, and student engagement support; supervise student workers.
WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Typical office environment with regular use of a computer, phone, and other office equipment.
- Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods.
- Occasional lifting of materials or event supplies (up to 25 lbs).
- May be required to attend occasional evening or weekend events.
NOTE: Niagara University reserves the right to modify, combine, or eliminate job duties or positions at any time.
Salary : $20 - $24