PAY GRADE: 29E

CONTEXT OF THE JOB:

Under the general direction of the Assistant Director for Student Services, the Immigration Services Advisor provides a wide range of immigration advising and support services to international students, scholars, and employees and serves as a resource to university departments. The incumbent will have a primary focus on advising and providing support services to international visiting scholars and H-1B employees.

The International Student & Scholar Services team at the Center for Global Programs & Services (CGPS) provides support services to over 5,000 international students, scholars, and their families at UD annually. The office is committed to providing quality services to students and scholars in F-1, J-1 and H-1B visa status during their stay at the University and in the U.S. The office coordinates all employment-based immigrant petitions on behalf of the University and works closely with UD-retained attorneys to assist with the filing of specific immigrant and non-immigrant benefits, including PR applications and O-1 petitions. In collaboration with campus and community partners, CGPS also contributes to the internationalization of the university by providing a wealth of international programming and opportunities for cross-cultural interactions and engagement. CGPS is a fast-paced, team-oriented service office.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Advises and assists the international population, primarily in F, J, and H visa status, regarding all non-immigrant compliance issues, such as visa adjustments, employments, travel, and re-entry into the country.
• Develops and administers training and orientation to keep students and the university community informed of changes and trends in immigration laws, rules, and regulations.
• Coordinates and serves as liaison with the Admissions Office and the Graduate College, Professional & Continuing Education Studies, the English Language Institute, Student Financial Services, Residence Life and Housing, and other UD departments in all matters pertaining to the initial arrival and enrollment of international students, scholars, and employees.
• Verifies documentation to determine eligibility for student immigration documents.  Prepares and issues immigration documents (I-20/DS-2019) for students and scholars, as well as for their dependents.
• Monitors and resolves individual government compliance violations as they arise; instructs department administration on preventing and avoiding compliance violations.
• Administers all aspects of immigration related student and scholar applications, which includes but is not limited to filing applications, petitions, extension, etc., following up as necessary on application errors, delays, and inquiries, and compliance with DHS, DOS, and DOL requirements.
• Evaluates immigration documents and academic records to determine students’ eligibility for on/off-campus employment (curricular practical training, and Pre/post-completion optional practical training, OPT STEM extension and Academic training); Prepares and issues all the necessary immigration documents needed for on/off-campus employment.
• Registers, coordinates, and monitors all documentation and reporting regarding international student and scholar information through SEVIS to ensure accuracy and compliance with DHS regulations.
• Serves as Designated School Official (DSO) and Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) for non-immigrant students & scholars on F-1 and J-1 visas.
• Maintains current knowledge of all USCIS regulations concerning international students, scholars, and employees.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree and two years’ experience directly related to position responsibilities, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Knowledge of immigration regulations regarding international students, visiting scholars and employee visas.
• Excellent attention to detail and strong organizational and planning skills.
• Effective interpersonal and intercultural communication skills.
• Ability to develop and deliver presentations and workshops.
• International experience that may include studying, living, or working abroad.
• Experience as part of a team and service-oriented work environment.
• Knowledge of student and scholar records systems and U.S. government SEVIS program.
• Experience advising international students and scholars.
• Demonstrates an understanding and consideration of the differing needs and concerns of individuals with varying identities, cultures, and backgrounds.
• Committed to fostering a workplace culture of belonging, where diversity is celebrated, and equity is a core value.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Permanent Residency is required, as mandated by DHS and SEVP federal regulations.