International Student and Scholar Advisor

Job Description

The Harvard International Office (HIO) was established in 1944.  Since that time, the Harvard international population has grown to over 10,000, and many are accompanied by family members.  The HIO provides immigration advising in compliance with U.S. government regulations and University policies. When needed, the HIO makes referrals to other University and third-party services and resources. The HIO regularly responds to student, scholar, and University administrator inquiries, and proactively identifies where students and scholars may need guidance and support. 

Job Summary:

The International Student and Scholar Advisor provides immigration advising and support in the areas of pre-arrival guidance, orientation, and cultural adaptation.  Advises a population of continuing and incoming international students and scholars on issues relating to immigration; as Designated School Official (DSO) and Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO), ensures institutional and individual compliance with the government regulations by learning, interpreting, and applying regulations and government policies pertaining to F-1 and J-1 students; evaluates student and scholar eligibility for issuance of F-1 and J-1 visa documents. This position assists with proactive future planning that will effectively anticipate the needs of international students and scholars related to immigration regulations and other support measures.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

• Serve as an Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) for the J-1 Exchange Visitor program and as Designated School Official (DSO) for the F-1 program under the U.S.
• Provide immigration advising for students and scholars, including detailed instruction on maintenance of status requirements such as change of status, school transfer, full-time enrollment, extension of stay, employment, practical training, and reinstatement of status.
• Act as Advisor on Call for both students and scholars; answers basic questions concerning visa documents and travel plans; provides travel signatures for F-1 and J-1 visa holders with sponsorship from Harvard University; advises on general procedures for obtaining visa documents and maintaining visa status; provides letters for Social Security Number and ITIN 
• Manage casework processing for employment-based visa sponsorships, particularly with J-1s, H-1Bs, TNs, O’s and other relevant visa holders
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with faculty, University administrators, student organizations, private and public agencies, and others in committee work; advise student organizations on effective organizational and event management; ensure student safety
• Coordinates and inputs electronic data into the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS); and works closely with other departments to coordinate data collection and transfer into SEVIS. 
• Maintain a high sensitivity to diverse cultural needs of students; maintain confidentiality and appropriately handle sensitive communications with employees and external agencies; recognize multicultural value systems and works accordingly; may work with the Title IX office to provide services to students
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements:

• Sitting using near vision use for reading and computer use for extended periods of time
• Lifting (approximately 20 to 30 pounds), bending and other physical exertion

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a job-related field. Equivalent of two years of professional experience in a student services program area, working with international student population.
• Experience working with the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) compliance issues/processes in a campus-based International Student Services office required.
• Demonstrated knowledge of office computer systems at a level appropriate to the duties of the position; ability to work in a fast-paced, high-intensity environment; capable of multi-tasking.
• Ability to interpret and apply program rules and regulations; ability to use initiative and resourcefulness in planning work assignments and in developing program and process improvements.
• Ability to obtain factual and interpretative information through interviews; reason logically; collect, analyze and evaluate data
• Strong written and verbal skills; confidently conduct presentations for students; advise students individually and in groups on routine matters where required.
• Ability to rapidly acquire a general knowledge of the overall operation, functions and programs of the School to which assigned

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Knowledge of a foreign language and or study abroad preferred.

Additional Information

Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week, Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm

Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position

Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education, and References

Other Information: 

#LI-TH1

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 056. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Salary Grade: 056