Academic Adviser

Academic Adviser

The Department of Health Policy and Administration (HPA) in the College of Health and Human Development at Penn State is seeking a highly motivated, professional Academic Adviser. This role will provide academic evaluation, guidance, and assistance to students; assess student interests and performance; identify needs and opportunities to advance student academic goals; advise on course selection, scheduling, program requirements, and degree progress; contribute to the unit's advising program including orientations, workshops, and recruiting and retention efforts; implement improvements to advising services.

This position is based in State College, PA, at the University Park campus and requires regular weekly on-campus presence. After a successful training period, a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on-campus work will be considered. Questions related to a flexible work schedule should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Responsibilities include providing holistic and proactive advising services to students exploring or enrolled in the Health Policy and Administration major, advising students applying to and accepted into HPA's Integrated Undergraduate/Graduate Programs, overseeing and guiding the HPA Student Peer Mentoring Program, evaluating student needs, identifying students experiencing academic difficulty, discussing and exploring academic, personal, and professional interests and goals with students, utilizing the student success platform to communicate with advisees, coordinating, developing, delivering, and directing college or major specific advising programs, interpreting, applying, and ensuring student compliance with university academic policies and procedures, contributing to the development of enrollment enhancement plans, participating in recruitment and retention activities, liaising with college undergraduate office or departmental advising offices, serving on department committees related to student success, and remaining current on advising best practices.

Competencies critical to success include outstanding interpersonal, verbal, and written communications, demonstrated commitment to diversity, effective problem-solving and organizational skills, accuracy and attention to detail, the ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines, the use of sound judgment and professionalism, and the ability to adapt and adjust to situations as needed.

Minimum education, work experience, and required certifications vary based on the level of the position. For the Academic Adviser - Advanced Professional, a Master's Degree and 3+ years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience are required. For the Academic Adviser - Intermediate Professional, a Master's Degree and 1+ years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience are required. No required certifications are needed for either position.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $42,100.00 - $67,300.00. Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.