Scholar Advisor

Hiring Department International Programs Job Description International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) is a central service function that is tasked with processing immigration documentation, maintaining accurate records, and providing orientation and advising services to MU students, faculty, researchers, and staff. The Scholar Advisor provides advising and compliance efforts to MU students, faculty, and staff needing assistance and expertise. This role also serves as an educator to the campus community, professional colleagues, and local and regional partners. The position serves as an Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO), supporting exchange visitors and host departments. Note: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to perform ARO duties. Key Responsibilities Advise international scholars, faculty, and staff on immigration matters. Prepare and file petitions for all UM system campuses; maintain required documentation and case files, including cases filed by outside counsel. Maintain accurate records for all petitions filed across UM System. Utilize systems such as Terra Dotta-ISSS and Microsoft applications to manage records, track cases, and generate reports. Serve as a liaison with federal and state agencies, including the Department of Labor (DOL), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Monitor immigration regulations and policy changes affecting international faculty and scholars; collaborate with ISSS leadership to ensure appropriate implementation. Enable accurate document processing and responsive advising that meets scholar and departmental needs. Collaborate with ISSS advisors to deliver orientations, workshops, and information sessions throughout the year. Partner with Human Resources to support compliance and workforce needs. Develop and maintain immigration-related content for print and digital communications to keep scholars informed of regulatory and policy updates. Draft correspondence and prepare immigration-related documentation to support scholar services and case processing. Conduct surveys with departments and scholars to assess experiences, satisfaction, and retention; provide insights and recommendations to improve programs and services. Participate in professional development activities (conferences, workshops, seminars) to maintain compliance and expertise in immigration regulations. Support additional ISSS initiatives and services as needed. Assist with student advising and programming during peak service periods, as assigned. Shift M-F, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Minimum Qualifications A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 2 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary. Preferred Qualifications Applicant must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Working knowledge of immigration regulations as they pertain to international students and/or scholars. Strong interpersonal communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively. Degree in higher education administration, counseling, college student personnel administration, international education/studies, foreign language, international affairs, cross‑cultural communication or communications. Experience as a Designated School Official (DSO) or Responsible/Alternate Responsible Officer (A/RO). Experience working in TerraDotta. Experience as paralegal for immigration law firms related to employment‑based immigration. Anticipated Hiring Range Salary Range: $23.00 - $25.00 hourly Grade: GGS-8 University Title: Senior Student Support Specialist Sponsorship Information Employment visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Benefit Eligibility This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at Equal Employment Opportunity The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at View phone number on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr University of Missouri-Columbia