Academic Adviser

Penn State University • Ferguson Township, PA

21h • Onsite

About The Position

The Division of Undergraduate Studies (DUS) is seeking a student-focused individual to serve as an Academic Adviser. DUS is one of Penn State’s largest enrollment units for first- and second-year students and is dedicated to helping undecided and exploratory students. This is a standing, full-time, and in-person position at the University Park campus. As a professional Academic Adviser in DUS, you will support first- and second-year undergraduate students as they navigate their academic journey to major declaration. The primary task of this position is to build meaningful relationships with your advisees, helping them discover their interests, connect with campus resources, and develop the skills needed for academic and personal success. In this role, you will also contribute to a community of academic advisers and other professionals within DUS who are committed to empowering individual students to explore, define, and achieve academic goals that are meaningful to them.

Requirements

• Are committed to holistic student success
• Understand the role of academic advising in student achievement
• Enjoy working collaboratively with colleagues and want to contribute to a positive team culture
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal, communication, and emotional intelligence skills
• Experience in academic advising, teaching, counseling, or related fields is valued.
• Both a cover letter and resume/CV are required for consideration; incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
• If filled as Academic Adviser - Senior Professional, this position requires: Master's Degree 6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• If filled as Academic Adviser - Advanced Professional, this position requires: Master's Degree 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.
• Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary academic adviser for a roster of undergraduate students, providing personalized guidance both in-person and virtually
• Support students in exploring academic options, selecting courses, and making informed decisions about their educational paths
• Monitor students’ academic progress, offering encouragement and strategies for overcoming challenges
• Interpret and communicate university policies, procedures, and curricular requirements
• Facilitate academic advising during New Student Orientation (May–August)
• Present at unit- and university-wide events, representing DUS at various programs (e.g., recruitment and matriculation events for students and families)
• Engage in unit, university, and/or professional-association committees, projects, or initiatives that advance student success and high-quality academic advising
• Report to a unit director who encourages your professional growth and career development

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees