Graduate Assistant for Orientation Programs

Job Title: Graduate Assistant for Orientation Programs Full or Part Time: Part time Hours: 20 Exempt: No Supervisory Org: Orientation Program (JM-SE) Job Description: JOB TITLE: Graduate Assistant for Orientation Programs DEPARTMENT: Orientation Programs WAGE: $16.00/hour HOURS: Scheduled hours may vary based on departmental needs and program activities. JOB SUMMARY: The Graduate Assistant for Orientation Programs supports the planning, implementation, and assessment of orientation initiatives. This role emphasizes program development, strategic communication, and administrative support, while also contributing to the execution of first-year orientation events (SOAR, Fresh Start, International SOAR, etc.) and transfer student programming. This appointment is for a maximum of two calendar years. Graduate Assistants are required to work a minimum of 10 hours per week. During the fall and winter semesters, work hours may not exceed 24 hours per week. During the spring and summer semesters, Graduate Assistants may work up to 40 hours per week, but no more. ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: Assist in the planning and execution of large-scale orientation events, including first year and transfer student orientations. Establish and promote on-campus events for transfer students to encourage their academic, social, and student success under the guidance of the Coordinator of Orientation Programs and the Second Year Retention Specialist Logistic coordination such as appointment scheduling, materials preparation, and on-site event support. Trained in Academic Advising to support Academic Advising peak times, transfer student orientations, and first-year student advising labs. Provide direct support during first-year orientation sessions. Maintain accurate records and reporting of student information (FERPA) Aid with office operations, including appointment scheduling and front-facing support. Analyze feedback and assessment data to improve and adapt programming for future use. Develop and implement communication plans targeting incoming transfer and first-year students. Draft and manage email campaigns, newsletters, and digital content (e.g., website updates, social media). Ensure messaging is clear, inclusive, and aligned with institutional branding and goals. Respond to student and family inquiries in a prompt and professional manner. Perform other duties as assigned. SUPERVISION RECEIVED: General supervision is received from Coordinator of Orientation Programs. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree in related field Currently admitted to a graduate program or eligible and intending to apply upon accepting the offer. Graduate programs qualify for this position include: Master of Business Administration (MBA) or Master of Public Administration (MPA) Strong written and verbal communication skills Organizational skills with attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities. Ability to work independently and collaboratively. A positive attitude and enthusiasm about creating a welcoming environment for new students, focused on student success. Must be able to attend all SOAR events, NODA professional and student conferences, Orientation Leader training and retreat, Fresh Start, Transfer Student Welcome event, and others. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn new software quickly. Experience and ability to positively interact with all members of the campus community Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without accommodations. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Experience with orientation programs, new student transitions, academic advising, or admissions Experience in event planning and giving student employee supervision. Experience working in programs like Slate, Workday, and Microsoft Office Understanding of Saginaw Valley State University undergraduate degree programs TUITION ELIGIBILITY & TAX IMPLICATIONS: Graduate Assistantships include a tuition and fee waiver of up to 12 credit hours per semester (maximum 30 per academic year), funded by the SVSU central budget. Full-time enrollment (9 credits or more) is required in the Fall and Winter semesters, with minimal exceptions available. Less than full-time enrollment is allowed in the final semester for completion or for programs that do not offer full-time enrollment Per IRS regulations, tuition waivers may be considered taxable income. Amounts exceeding $5,250 annually are generally taxable and will be included in compensation. Employees should consult a tax advisor for guidance. WORKING CONDITIONS: Duties are generally performed inside and not exposed to adverse conditions. All work associated with this role must be performed within the state of Michigan. This position is an on-campus position and doesn’t qualify for remote work The above reflects the general details considered necessary to describe the essential functions of the job. It shall not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements that may be inherent in the job. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct, and control the work of employees under his/her supervision. The use of a particular expression or illustration describing duties shall not be held to exclude other duties not mentioned that are of similar kind or level of difficulty. About SVSU: Saginaw Valley State University is a comprehensive university with more than 100 programs of study for its roughly 7,000 students. Located on a suburban campus in Michigan’s Great Lakes Bay Region, SVSU is committed to a supportive and empowering environment for students, faculty and staff. SVSU was recognized as a “Great College to Work For” for 9 consecutive years (2016-2024). SVSU emphasizes undergraduate teaching and learning, and community-based research. SVSU earned the Community Engagement classification from the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, a distinction achieved by only 7 percent of U.S. colleges and universities. By their senior year, 84 percent of students have engaged with community employers and agencies in internships, field placements or some other component of their academic preparation. SVSU is establishing itself as a leader in STEAM education for the Great Lakes Bay Region, partnering with businesses, foundations and school districts to improve students’ performance in math, science and the arts at the middle school, high school and university levels. SVSU is constructing the first university research facility on Lake Huron to improve public health and the economy in the Saginaw Bay watershed. More than 70 percent of SVSU freshmen live on campus in student housing that has been rated No. 1 among public universities in the U.S. (2018-2025). SVSU fields 20 varsity sports at the NCAA Division II level. The average class size is 23 students. For more information, please visit our website, SVSU STANDS OUT through our employee experience: Our work culture, values, and mission. Excellent retirement package and employee benefits. Professional development to support and grow employees. Prioritizing the health and well-being of our employees through programs and gym memberships. Rewarding and recognizing employees' achievements.