Academic Advisor

About the role

Abilene Christian University (ACU) is hiring an Academic Advisor in Abilene. ACU is affiliated with the fellowship of the Church of Christ; all applicants must be professing Christians and willing to support the Christian mission and purpose of the university while employed there. The advisor helps students define and develop realistic educational plans, from orientation through graduation.

Key responsibilities

• Help students build semester and summer schedules through to graduation, with clear, consistent office hours and availability during peak advising seasons.
• Meet students at least once per semester to plan the next semester, review long-range schedules, discuss grades, milestones, student wellbeing and satisfaction, and initiate registration, drops/adds, withdrawals, major changes, waivers and graduation requirements.
• Follow up on potential barriers to success such as account holds, poor grades or attendance, and give special attention to at-risk students.
• Keep an up-to-date advising portfolio and connect students to tutoring, career services, counseling and other resources.
• Consult faculty regularly on curriculum and degree plans, and explain institutional policies and procedures to students.
• Connect with incoming students during orientation and the first year, and schedule special sessions.

Required profile

• Professing Christian and willing to support the university's Christian mission.
• Minimum of a Bachelor's degree; a Master's degree is preferred.
• At least three years of higher education experience preferred for candidates without a Master's degree.
• High initiative, dependability, focus, goal orientation and professionalism.
• Ability to endure long periods of sitting, standing and walking, to travel, and to handle stress; a personal cell phone is required.

Required skills

• Detailed and organized, with strong time management and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills, including customer service.
• Knowledge of institutional regulations, policies and procedures, and ability to monitor student progress.
• Training modules include advising cluster department training, Banner and Degree Works, Slate, and regular advising team meetings; professional development seminars and conferences are also listed.