Graduate Program Specialist, College of Engineering

UIOWA • Iowa City, IA

18h

About The Position

The Graduate Program Specialist position provides professional-level support to the departmental graduate program and work as a team to support other departmental activities. Primary responsibility of this position is to support the graduate and research program needs of the department. Work involves recurring contact with currently enrolled students, prospective students, faculty, staff, university units, and the public. There is an expectation that the person in this position will maintain an effective, civil, and respectful working relationships with all members of the community. This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization. The College of Engineering at the University of Iowa is driven by talented faculty, staff, and students who are dedicated to producing knowledge that addresses grand challenges in advanced technologies, health sciences, sustainability, energy, and the environment. We pride ourselves on producing ethical, globally aware engineers whose work makes the world safer and more efficient. As a center of innovation and discovery, the College of Engineering is committed to improving the quality of life for our Iowa community, as well as for people across the United States and around the world. We uphold the values of respect, community, and collaboration in all our endeavors, fostering a welcoming and respectful environment where members are valued and supported. Joining our team means becoming part of a supportive environment that values work-life balance and personal well-being. The University of Iowa offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health and wellness resources, dual career support, and opportunities for professional development. Learn more about working at the University of Iowa: Build A Career/Build a Life.

Requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
• A minimum of 6 months of administrative experience in a professional setting, demonstrating the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively while adapting to changing priorities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in computer software applications such as Word, Excel, and Access.
• Working knowledge of and ability to use office support tools available on the desktop (e.g., word processing, e-mail, presentation software and spreadsheets).
• Demonstrated success in fostering a welcoming and respectful workplace environment.
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task and work collaboratively as a team.
• Demonstrated customer support experience.

Nice To Haves

• Professional experience supporting a graduate program(s).
• Knowledge of University policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Knowledge of the graduate admissions process.

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive administrative and academic support for PhD, MS, and U2G students in the department from recruitment through graduation, serving as the first point-of-contact for graduate program related questions.
• Plan and oversee orientation, professional development, and community- building events.
• Manage graduate student enrollment, including maintain graduate student and program records, including application materials, academic and milestone- tracking files and plans of study.
• Advise students on university and collegiate policies and monitor graduate student progress, prepare and collect annual evaluations.
• Collaborate with Director of Graduate Studies to manage deadlines, schedule meetings, compose correspondence, and update the departmental graduate program guide.
• Advise students regarding course selection, program requirements, available resources, and best practices and develop plans of study for MS and PhD students.
• Coordinate UICA graduate scholarships and awards in partnership with the budget team and departmental graduate committee.
• Support graduate seminar organization, including guest speaker travel, itineraries, and announcements.
• Assist with travel arrangements for departmental faculty and students.
• Administrative support for departmental events such as graduate student appreciation week, senior design day, advisory council visits, faculty retreat, and alumni visits and other outreach and community building initiatives.
• Manage ESL program and submit TAPE exam requests.

Benefits

• Regular salaried position.
• Pay Level 3A.
• Located in Iowa City, Iowa.
• Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans.
• Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies.
• Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists.
• Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance.

What This Job Offers

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