Graduate Programs Evaluator

San José State University•San Jose, CA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Graduate Admissions and Program Evaluations (GAPE) Office at San José State University advances the academic mission of the university by collaborating with campus and external partners to support graduate student success. Under general supervision of the Director and receiving lead direction from the area lead, the Graduate Programs Evaluator independently performs complex student services work related to graduate admissions, advancement to candidacy, and degree completion. This includes the evaluation, verification, and processing of academic records and requirements across all graduate programs, including combined programs, SAGE Scholars, and SJSU Online. The incumbent applies comprehensive knowledge of university policies, procedures, and graduate education requirements to ensure accurate and timely evaluations. The role requires the ability to interpret and communicate policies clearly, analyze student records, and exercise sound judgment in resolving issues and determining appropriate actions. In all interactions, the Graduate Programs Evaluator provides accurate information, advises students and stakeholders on procedural and academic matters, and recommends solutions to support student progress. The position requires establishing and maintaining effective, collegial relationships with students, faculty, staff, and external constituents, while delivering services that are responsive, equitable, and aligned with institutional goals.

Requirements

General knowledge of research and interview techniques, and of the principles underlying individual and group behavior
Ability to interpret and apply program rules, regulations, and policies; demonstrate initiative and resourcefulness in planning, prioritizing, and implementing both short- and long-range program activities and improvements
Ability to interact and communicate with constituents in a professional and respectful manner at all times
Ability to advise and assist students, individually and in group settings, on routine academic, administrative, and student service matters
Demonstrated ability to learn, adapt to, and effectively apply artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies to enhance student services, program delivery, and operational efficiency
Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and appropriately handle sensitive and complex communications with students, families, faculty, staff, and external partners
Ability to reason logically and analyze data; collect, compile, and evaluate information; and present findings clearly through written reports and oral presentations
Ability to identify, assess, and resolve student concerns and conflicts using sound judgment, problem-solving, and referral skills
Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in a related field; Additional experience which demonstrates acquired and successfully applied knowledge and abilities shown above may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis
Two years of relevant experience; An advanced degree in a related field may be substituted for the required experience on a year-for-year basis.
A valid driver's license is required for this position. Out of state candidates selected for the position must obtain a State of California driver's license within 10 days of hire in accordance with the California Department of Motor Vehicles regulations.
Once hired the employee must successfully complete the Defensive Driver Training Program provided by the State of California for California State University campuses.

Nice To Haves

1-2 terms of additional post-secondary coursework after completion of a bachelor’s degree
Experience directly working in a higher education enrollment services, admissions, records, and/or evaluations environment with high exposure to graduate students

Responsibilities

Implement business processes for each application and graduation cycle, and relay appropriate feedback about processes to efficiently meet demands and specified timelines, including, but not limited to: acting as primary role with admissions, candidacy, and graduation processing for graduate, certificate, and credential students.
Assess domestic and international students’ academic documents to determine eligibility and clearance for admissions, assist students and support department advisors in appropriate appeal processes, provide workshops, and advise applicants on requirements via one-on-one meetings, phone and e-mail communications, and outreach activities with on and off campus constituents.
Follow business processes for each application cycle, and relay appropriate feedback on processes to meet demands and specified timelines, including, but not limited to: the admission application evaluation processing for graduate, certificate, and/or credential students.
Assess domestic and international student’s academic documents to determine admission eligibility for graduate programs and advancement to candidacy.
Assess and evaluate for all graduate programs including combined programs, SAGE, and SJSU Online.
Interpret and explain policies to students and their families as well as provide clarification on policies and procedures to other SJSU offices and representatives from other institutions that have questions.
Evaluate and process, in a timely manner, applications for graduation for graduate students. Verify and evaluate documents for admission, advancement to candidacy and graduation for the GAPE Office.
Provide feedback for testing new data systems and contribute to processing efficiency through team engagement meetings and special project implementation.