Graduate Program Specialist, College of Engineering
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 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 permanent residency sponsorship.
Specific Job Duties
- 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.
To obtain the full job description including key areas of responsibility, technical competencies, and desirable qualifications, please contact Alex-Schutman@uiowa.edu
About the College of Engineering
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 and inclusive 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.
Education Requirement
- A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
Required Qualifications
- A minimum of 6 months of administrative experience, including the ability to carry out multitasking and organizational tasks effectively, and the ability to prioritize and manage time efficiently.
- 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 as a team.
- Demonstrated customer support experience.
Desired Qualifications
- Professional experience supporting a graduate program(s).
- Knowledge of University policies, procedures, and regulations.
- Knowledge of the graduate admissions process.
Application Details
In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload:
- Resume
- Cover Letter
Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days. This job may be removed from posting and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.
For questions, contact Alex Schutman at Alex-Schutman@uiowa.edu
Benefits Highlights
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.
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Equal opportunity/affirmative action employer
The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, gender identity, or associational preferences.
Persons with disabilities who need assistance or accommodations with the application or interview process may contact University Human Resources/Faculty and Staff Disability Services, (319) 335-2660 or fsds@uiowa.edu. For jobs in UI Health care, please contact UI Health care Leave & Disability Administration at 319-356-7543.