Academic and Student Support Advisor

Job Description

The Department of Biochemistry in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) Academic and Student Support Advisor position is a full-time calendar year Administrative and Professional position that will be joining the undergraduate advising team. This role is fully student-facing and supports both current and prospective Biochemistry students. The responsibilities for this role include: Delivery of individualized accurate information in a professional sincere manner to students about course options and developing a comprehensive educational plan. Keeping appointment availability and being available for assistance while also maintaining records on meetings with students within the Navigate platform. Maintaining comprehensive knowledge of curriculum, university policies, campus resources, college guidelines, including policy changes and updates. This includes, being informed of, and providing accurate information about current academic policies and procedures. Following through with appropriate referrals and follow up with students to maintain a consistent and supportive relationship to students. Seeking out and taking advantage of opportunities for professional development. Participation in college and departmental summer course registration advising and commencement. Assisting with the processing of undergraduate research forms. Interfacing with the Biochemistry undergraduate club and Peer Mentors. Work closely with department faculty to communicate updates and assistance in student advising efforts. Working collaboratively with the CALS Academic Programs office and the university regarding auditing and evaluating students’ progress, graduation analysis, clearance, and other applicable undergraduate process management. Assist with instruction for Biochemistry First Year Experience course. Maintains knowledge of First Year Experience initiatives, including attending workshops and training events. Recruitment and Retention of Students. This includes: Serving as one of the primary contacts and resources for current and prospective undergraduate students. Working closely with the CALS Lead Advisor and CALS Director of Recruitment to coordinate and maximize resources. The Academic and Student Support Advisor will be tasked with working with sensitive information and maintaining a high level of confidentiality and discretion in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

Required Qualifications

M.S. degree from an accredited institution, preferably in Biochemistry, Life Sciences, Higher Education, or related field; or any satisfactory combination of experience and training which demonstrates the knowledge, skills and abilities to perform above duties. Excellent communication, organizational, time management, problem solving, and interpersonal skills. Ability to work independently to meet deadlines and set work priorities; as well as ability to work collaboratively as part of the advising team. Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain high level of confidentiality by following FERPA, university, and department guidelines. Ability to work effectively with a diverse population, including students, faculty, staff, parents, alumni, and prospective students and their families.

Preferred Qualifications

Employment experience in an academic unit, including previous work in areas of academic student services, advising, recruiting, and curriculum processes. Experience with university advising technology systems including: Navigate, BDM, Banner, Transfer Equivalency Database, DARS

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Regular

Salary Information

50,000-60,000

Hours per week

40

Review Date

05/03/2026 (open until filled)

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

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